STAFF REPORT
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News Bites for June 8, 2023
EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office will be closed today from noon to 3 p.m. for staff to participate in the Chief for a Day event. The event, as stated in yesterday’s news bites, honors Grant Co. youths impacted by long-term or life-threatening medical conditions...
News Bites for June 7, 2023
EPHRATA — Some special kids will get a chance to wear the chief’s hat Thursday...
Shooting suspect sought in Adams Co.
RITZVILLE — Adams County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect in a drive-by shooting, according to a statement from the ACSO...
Varner named CEO of Washington STEM
SEATTLE — Washington STEM recently tapped Lynne K. Varner to be its new CEO, according to a release from the organization...
Birth announcements for June 7, 2023
The Columbia Basin welcomed several new residents over the last few weeks.
News bites for June 6, 2023
SOAP LAKE — A hike took a frightening turn when a hiker fell at the Lenore Caves Friday afternoon. At about 2 p.m., responders from Grant County Fire District 17 were called to the scene about half a mile from the parking lot of the popular hiking area north of Soap Lake. There they found a middle-aged woman who had fallen and injured her leg and hip, according to a statement from the fire district. The victim was unable to walk, the statement said...
GALLERY: Saturday graduations
COLUMBIA BASIN – Graduations continued over the weekend with students walking stages across the Columbia Basin on Saturday at Wilson Creek, Lind-Ritzville and Covenant Christian School. Below are some photo highlights of those graduations. Full coverage of area graduations will be printed in a keepsake edition of the paper on June 14 so that area students can have something with themselves and their friends from throughout the region in one collective regional “yearbook” of sorts. The staff at the Columbia Basin Herald applaud this year’s graduates and wish them the best of luck in their academic and professional lives as they move forward.
Weather for Monday, June 5, 2023
Weather report from the National Weather Service.
Grant Co. pet of the week: Meet Chancho
Hi, my name is Chancho I am a 6-year-old neutered male pitbull mix. While I am good with some people, I have a mild case of stranger danger which makes me nervous around new people. I cannot be in a home with other animals or young kids, but I am extremely smart, I love to play, I listen well (I know how to sit, stay and shake), and I am very motivated to learn -- especially if you have treats. If you are interested in me please contact Shae at 509-762-9616 or email [email protected]
GRAD GALLERY: Celebrating the class(es) of 2023
COLUMBIA BASIN – Celebrations aplenty occurred throughout Grant and Adams counties over the weekend as about two weeks of graduations at area high schools began. Below are some photo highlights of the festivities. The Columbia Basin Herald will have full coverage of the graduation ceremonies in a special keepsake edition of the paper on June 12 so that area students can have something with themselves and their friends from across the region in one place. We congratulate the class of 2023 and we wish them nothing but success as they venture onto the next stages of their lives.
STUDIO BASIN: Looking for young leaders and recognizing young athletes
MOSES LAKE – On this week’s episode of the Studio Basin podcast, General Manager Bob Richardson joins to preview the Basin Business Journal's 40 under 40 program, highlighting upcoming leaders in business around Eastern Washington. To submit someone for recognition, visit https://bit.ly/BBJ-40u40-2023. Next, sports reporter Ian Bivona recaps last weekend's results in state softball tournaments, state track and field meets and state tennis matches. The Studio Basin podcast can be found on your favorite podcasting apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3qqpsop.
News Bites for June 2, 2023
The Quincy Police Department participated in the Fire on Top-Cop on Top fundraiser last Friday, teaming up with other first responder agencies to raise money for Special Olympics, according to an announcement from the department. Officers and firefighters were taken up in a scissor lift for a squirt gun battle with local youth, according to the announcement....
Ephrata schools to offer free summer meals to children
EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District will provide free meals to children 18 and younger this summer beginning on Wednesday, June 14, and lasting through Thursday, July 27, according to a press release from the Ephrata School District...
News Bites for June 1
QUINCY — Saturday’s sudden rainstorm triggered a flash flood at Adams Road and Road 13 Northwest, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Mud, rocks and debris were scattered across the roads, the GSCO wrote. Grant County Road District 3 responded to the area and cleaned the road up, and the GCSO statement did not indicate any injuries or property damage. Here’s what else happened over the weekend in the Columbia Basin:
Law enforcement logs for June 1
The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
June 2023 Community Calendar
June 2 First Friday Jam Anyone with an instrument can come and play; anyone with ears can come and listen. Potluck at 6 p.m., jam 7-9 p.m. at George Community Hall, 403 W. Montmorency Blvd. Info: www.georgecommunityhall.com. Preschool story time Kids will read books, do fingerplays and action rhymes, sing songs, and explore with other activities. 10:30-11 a.m. every Friday at the Warden Library, 305 S Main Ave. Info: 509-349-2226. June 3 Dru Gimlin 3-on-3 basketball tournament This will be the 20th anniversary for the tournament. The tournament features an adult division ages 18 and older, youths in fifth grade through high school and boys and girls divisions. Proceeds go to the Dru Gimlin Foundation, named for the QHS student who died in a traffic accident. The foundation works to ensure children in Quincy can participate in athletics. First game starts at 9 a.m. on Central Avenue South in downtown Quincy. CBBRE Spring Classic Barrel racing. Begins at 7 a.m. at the Grant County Fairgrounds, Moses Lake. Moses Lake Farmers Market Every Saturday until the end of October. Fresh produce, crafts and more. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at McCosh Park, Moses Lake. Info: moseslakefarmersmarket.com. Family Free Saturday Twirling ladybug or bee. Continues until supplies have been exhausted. Adult must accompany child during activity (no drop-offs). 12-2 p.m. at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, 401 S. Balsam. Info: 509-764-3830.
Local schools represented among FFA district officers
MOSES LAKE — Future Farmers of America members from Quincy, Moses Lake, Ephrata and Lind-Ritzville were named District Nine officers for 2023-24 at the district meeting at Moses Lake High School May 24...
Graduations in the Basin coming soon
COLUMBIA BASIN – Area high schools will be celebrating graduation the first two weeks of June. The Columbia Basin Herald will be attending each of the ceremonies listed below and will provide coverage in a keepsake edition of the paper on June 12 so that graduates can have one issue that brings all of their graduation celebrations together with their friends at nearby schools. Additionally, look in tomorrow’s edition for a commemorative insert with photos of this year’s grads...
Adams Co. Pet of the Week: Meet Seaton
So, I’m Seaton and, as you can see, I’m quite adorable. I’m a younger dog and I’m not really sure what all my ancestors looked like, but somehow I won the gene pool lotto with these good looks. I enjoy walks and have a decent amount of energy, but after a long day, I do like a cuddle once I get to know my people. I’d love for you to be my people if you want to come meet me. I’ll even help you make sure you don’t get overstocked on treats. Come visit me at Adams County Pet Rescue at 1961 W. Bench Road near Othello. You can also see more adorable pets like me at adamscountypetrescue.com. The shelter’s number is 509-488-5514 and it is open from noon to 6 p.m. each day except for Mondays and Thursdays.
WA building code update implementation delayed
OLYMPIA — The Washington Building Code Council voted this week to delay the implementation of the state’s 2021 building code to Oct. 29 as the council considers possible revisions for portions of the code, according to an announcement on the council’s website...
Ephrata Parks & Rec seeks summer movie sponsors
EPHRATA — The Ephrata Parks and Recreation Department is looking for sponsors to help cover the costs of presenting its series of outdoor “movies under the stars” this summer. According to a letter from Parks and Recreation Director Traci Bennett, the department is planning on showing four movies this summer — one as a “dive in” feature at Splash Zone, the city’s water park, and three in Patrick Park — as part of a nice night out for families.
Masquers season finale opens June 2
SOAP LAKE — A pair of comedy shorts on wages of deceit will be the season finale for the Masquers Theater troupe for 2022-23. “White Liars” and “The Black Comedy” open June 2 at the theater, 322 E. Main Ave., Soap Lake. The shows will be on stage for three consecutive weekends. Tickets can be purchased online at the Masquers website, www.masquers.com.
CWU receives $130m for new construction, salaries, expanded programs
ELLENSBURG — Central Washington University has secured roughly $130 million over the next two years to begin construction on two major university projects as well as increase staff salaries, expand its College in the High School program, and improve teacher preparedness, according to a CWU press release.
Grant Co. Pet of the Week: Meet Chewbacca
Hey there. I’m Chewbacca, and just like my namesake, I’m fuzzy and loveable. The folks at Grant County Animal Outreach say I’m a Terrier and American Pit Bull mix, but I think I’m just a really suave pupper. I’m a bit larger than some of the pets at GCAO, so I’d like a home with a bit of extra room. I’m about 6 and a half years old and I’d love to have a home with someone who appreciates my energy and having my head on their lap. Like all of my furry friends at GCAO, I am up to date on vaccinations and have been neutered and microchipped. Come see me at the shelter at 6725 Randolph Road NE in Moses Lake. The shelter is open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to 6 p.m. each Friday and Saturday. Call ahead at 509-762-9616.
Weather for Monday, May 22
Monday: The workweek will begin sunny with a high around 73 and a 13-15 mph west wind with gusts of 23 mph. Cooling to around 46 in the evening and breezy...
News Bites for May 22
The news bites below were provided in statements by the associated law enforcement agencies. Any suspects mentioned are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Othello's Mayor Shawn Logan on the Studio Basin Podcast
MOSES LAKE – On this week’s episode of the Studio Basin podcast, senior reporter Cheryl Schweizer talks with Othello Mayor Shawn Logan about some of the challenges and opportunities facing the city. Logan discusses some of the things city officials are doing to attract new business, and how the city plans to accommodate growth when it comes. Logan also talks about some of the challenges the city faces, such as making sure there’s adequate housing and water for current and future residents. Next, sports reporter Ian Bivona recaps last week's district playoff games and previews upcoming state tournaments. The Studio Basin podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3OprrTK.
News Bites for May 19
The information for the news briefs below were gathered from statements made by the agencies indicated.
Entertainment to help you close out May
The local events listed below may help you close out May with a bit of fun.
Making connections
OTHELLO - Othello Police Department SRO Sgt. Aaron Garza speaks with kindergarten students at Lutacaga Dual Language Elementary in Othello about law enforcement.
WSDOT ends 511 traffic info service
OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Transportation announced on Thursday that it is shutting the statewide automated 511 traffic information phone number, citing declining call volumes, the cost of maintaining the system and new technologies which give drivers other choices, according to a WSDOT press release...
Temple progress
MOSES LAKE - Construction and beautification efforts at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have come a long way since the temple was first announced. The 20,000-square-foot Moses Lake Temple is built on 17 acres located on Yonezawa Boulevard, between Division Street and Road K NE. Behind the temple, from the point of view shown in this photo, is a new 17,000-square-foot meeting house. The gathering place for members of the Church was first announced in April 2019 and an open house at the temple will run from Aug. 4 through Aug. 19 with the exceptions of Aug. 6 and 13. The Church will dedicate the temple on Sept. 17 during two different sessions.
Law enforcement logs for May 18
The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law...
Coulee City student named to college honor society
COULEE CITY — Central Washing University student and Coulee City native Ruth Bresee has been initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest all-discipline college honor society, according to a society press release...
Adams Co. Pet of the Week: Ammi
Hey folks, I’m Ammi. The people that run Adams County Pet Rescue say I’m an Australian Shepherd-Husky mix, but I’m not sure what they’re talkin’ about, because I think I’m 100% cute and I’ve NEVER been to Australia. Like all of my playmates here at ACPR, I have all of my shots, I’ve been “fixed” – whatever that means – and I’m ready for a forever home. I’m a little less than six months old and I’m ready to meet you. Stop by and visit me at 1961 W Bench Road in Othello or find out more info at adamscountypetrescue.com. The shelter is open from noon to 6 p.m. most days, but is closed Monday and Thursday. 509-488-5514. [email protected]
Wahluke student arrested after alleged threats against teacher
MATTAWA — A Wahluke School District middle-schooler was taken into custody on Monday after the student allegedly posted an online threat against a teacher, according to a joint statement issued by the Wahluke School District and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. According to the GCSO portion of the statement, posted Tuesday on the WSD’s website, a 12-year-old male student allegedly posted a photo of what appeared to be a handgun along with a piece of paper covered with expletives and the teacher’s name. GCSO deputies were brought in to investigate and consulted with the Grant County Prosecutor’s office before arresting the suspect, the statement said.
Cantwell, Newhouse urge USDA push for Japan potato access
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Maria Cantwell and Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Yakima, along with 33 other members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture to do more to help U.S. potato growers get final approval to ship fresh potatoes to Japan. In a joint letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, the members say the Japanese government is still delaying since the United States asked for the ability to export fresh potatoes to Japan almost 30 years ago, the press release said. The legislators say approval of fresh potato exports to Japan could provide for an additional $150 million each year in expanded exports.
Tactical response team to tour Ephrata High School
EPHRATA — The Moses Lake Regional Tactical Response Team will tour Ephrata High School on Wednesday afternoon beginning at 4 p.m. as part of the team’s ongoing safety and security training program, according to a press release from the Ephrata School District. The release said the team, composed of officers from various regional law enforcement agencies, will meet with district officials and walk through high school buildings and classrooms to familiarize themselves with the school.
Fly-in breakfast at Desert Aire Airport next month
DESERT AIRE — Pilots and non-pilots are being invited to breakfast June 17 at the Desert Aire Airport. The annual “Fly-In/Drive-In Breakfast” is scheduled for 7 to 11 a.m. at the airport, 121 Desert Aire Drive. Pilots are invited to show off their planes, said airport commission chair Karl Reese, while spectators are invited to talk to the pilots and meet their neighbors. Breakfast will be served in the big hangar next to Sagebrush Senior Center. The menu includes pancakes, eggs and sausage, juice and coffee. A suggested donation of $7 is requested. All proceeds go to airport maintenance.
News bites for May 16
Below are a collection of announcements from first responder agencies that serve the Columbia Basin. These reports are based on press releases and media statements made by those agencies.
Wildfire prevention bill signed into law
OLYMPIA — Legislation designed to help reduce the risk of wildfire from electric utility equipment was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee recently. House Bill 1032 was sponsored by 13th District Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake...
Drivers urged to plan ahead for Memorial Day travel
OLYMPIA — Washington Department of Transportation officials are suggesting that drivers plan ahead if they are thinking about traveling for Memorial Day weekend. “Memorial Day weekend is often the unofficial start of summer and means increased travel and congestion, so travelers are encouraged to pack their patience,” said a WSDOT press release...
MLIRD funding bill signed
OLYMPIA – A bill sponsored by state Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, and supported in the house by Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, and intended to establish funding for the Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Thursday...
Grant Co. Pet of the Week: Dennis
Hey there, my name’s Dennis, and as you can see – I’m a charmer. I’m a little older than some of my friends here at Grant County Animal Outreach, but I’m filled with love and ready to keep you company. I’ve got a bit of German Shepherd in my background, but I’m mostly made of love from what folks can tell. I’m neutered and have all the shots a person might need, along with a microchip in my head – Yes. That’s right. I’m a cyborg. – I’d love to meet you and your family. Come see my friends and I at GCAO at 6725 Randolph Road NE in Moses Lake. You can also find more info by visiting grantcountyanimaloutreach.com or calling the shelter at 509-762-9616.
Dent bill restoring pesticide board signed into law
OLYMPIA – A bill authored by Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, which creates a Pesticide Advisory Board for Washington was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Friday, restoring an organization that had been in place from 1994 to 2010...
Weather for Monday, May 15.
Weather for Monday, May 15.
Macrophotography exhibit coming to ML Museum
MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake minister will be featured at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, according to an announcement from the museum...
News bites for May 15
A roundup of news stories from area first response agencies.
Columbia Basin community calendar for May 12-19
COLUMBIA BASIN – A busy week is ahead for the Columbia Basin with loads of events in a wide variety. Swing a club, catch a musical, get healthy or just have fun together any way you can. Here are a few suggestions...
First responder news bites
The news bites below are based upon statement from area first response organizations.