Ellington

3 charged with disaster relief fraud

SPOKANE — A federal grand jury indicted three Eastern Washington residents - including a man from Moses Lake - last week for fraud in obtaining COVID-19 relief money, according to a Department of Justice press release. “COVID-19 relief programs were designed to lift up our community during crisis, and due to the number of people and businesses that request funding, some deserving small businesses were not able to obtain funding to keep their businesses in operation,” saide Vanessa Waldref, a U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington...

Fire restrictions expanded to firearm discharge

SPOKANE - The Bureau of Land Management Spokane District has added a prohibition to its existing fire restrictions order regarding the discharge of firearms. Discharging firearms is prohibited on public lands under the care of BLM and the Bureau of Reclamation as of July 29. The only exception to this prohibition is while engaged in lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal or tribal law and regulations, on public lands administered by the BLM and the BOR in the following counties: Benton, Chelan, Douglas, Franklin, Grant and Yakima.

MLSD board reviews 22-23 proposed budget

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School District officials are projecting enrollment in preschool through high school to be the equivalent of 8,028 students for the 2022-23 school year. Stefanie Lowry, MLSD director of finance, reviewed the proposed budget for the new school year for the Moses Lake School Board at the district’s regular meeting Thursday. Including all funds, the 2022-23 budget is projected to be about $49.4 million. That includes about $17.94 million in the general fund, which pays for most school operations and personnel. Lowry said the actual P-12 enrollment for the 2021-22 school year was the equivalent of 7,993 students, less than the budget projection of the equivalent of 8,060 students...

Warden SD passes $23.8 million budget

Largest expense expected to be staffing for 22-23 school year

WARDEN — The Warden School Board at a regular meeting on Thursday approved the district’s total $23.8 million budget for the 2022-23 school year. The budget includes $19.8 million for regular operations, $3.2 million for capital projects, $409,000 to operate the district’s school buses, and $251,000 for athletics and other activities covered by the Associated Student Body Fund. “We’re good,” said WSD Vice Chair Doug Skone, who chaired the meeting, following the 3-0 vote...

Invasive beetles continue to spread in WA

RICHLAND — The Japanese beetle infestation continues to spread following the discovery of more of the invasive pests in Richland. According to a press release from the Washington State Department of Agriculture, department officials confirmed the discovery of a single beetle in a trap in Richland, about 35 miles east of Grandview, the epicenter of the Japanese beetle infestation. Earlier last week, WSDA officials announced the discovery of Japanese beetles in Wapato, roughly 30 miles west of Grandview. As of Friday, WSDA said officials have set more traps in Richland in the hunt for additional beetles.

Summer Classic brings barrel racing to the Basin

MOSES LAKE – The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club held its Summer Classic Race at the Grant County Fairgrounds this weekend, bringing in nearly 100 riders. “The different divisions go by age, and then the open is available to everyone.” CBBRC Secretary Jamie Bessette said. “So for example, a lot of people will run in multiple events and they'll run in the open, like my daughter, she'll run in the open and then she'll run in the youth because of her age group. Then she runs in something called the novice, because that means the horse has not won enough money to be considered experienced.” ...

No Limit tourney sees more than 60, despite heat

OTHELLO – Spread across the Potholes Reservoir on Saturday were more than 60 anglers using kayaks in the No Limit Big Bass Power Hour. “It’s great,” said Marvin Forte, the event organizer. “This is the first time we’ve done this format, and all of them we’ve done so far … it’s been a hit everywhere.” The event is the fourth of the No Limit Big Bass Power Hour events - with previous stops in California, Michigan and the Carolinas - and brought in anglers from across the Pacific Northwest and down to California, with the winner being from Idaho...

Toro pinch-hits for hurt J-Rod, leads Mariners past Astros

HOUSTON (AP) — Abraham Toro pinch-hit for injured All-Star Julio Rodriguez and delivered a two-run single with two outs in the ninth inning as the Seattle Mariners rallied past the AL-West leading Houston Astros 5-4 on Saturday night. Rodriguez was hit on the back of the hand as he swung at a pitch in the top of the eighth inning. He struck out, but played in the field in the bottom half of the inning before being lifted in the ninth. Seattle manager Scott Servais said Rodriguez would get X-rays later Saturday. “He did not feel comfortable with a bat in his hand,” Servais said. “So, we’ll pray that it is not broke.” ...

Stewart helps Storm beat Mystics 82-77, clinch playoff berth

WASHINGTON (AP) — Breanna Stewart made four free throws in the final 12 seconds and finished with 18 points, Tina Charles scored 16 points and grabbed nine rebounds and Seattle used a big second-half run to beat the Washington Mystics 82-77 Saturday and clinch a berth in the WNBA playoffs. Seattle (19-11), which had lost three of its previous four games, took sole possession of fourth in the league standings — a game ahead of the fifth-place Mystics and 1 1/2 games behind No. 3 Connecticut with about two weeks before the postseason begins. The Storm have won the first two games of their three-game regular season series with Washington, which wraps up when the teams meet again Sunday...

Columbia Basin Herald launches Studio Basin podcast

The Columbia Basin Herald is happy to announce the launch of the Studio Basin podcast. Hosted by managing editor R. Hans Miller, the podcast will include guests from the Columbia Basin, recaps of the week’s news, discussions about challenges and opportunities in Columbia Basin Communities and other information on what’s happening in Grant and Adams counties as well as issues that impact Washington state. To listen to the podcast, visit the Studio Basin site at: https://bit.ly/STUDIOBASIN. The podcast will also be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, Alexa, Overcast, PocketCasts, Castro, Castbox and Podchaser. At about 4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on July 30.

Pools and property

Adding value to your home and beating the heat

Pools are a great way to escape the summer heat, however, they add an additional cost to one’s budget to obtain and properly maintain...

Riverdog coaches discuss regional performances

COLUMBIA BASIN – With a trip to the Babe Ruth World Series on the line, both the 13U and 15U Columbia Basin Riverdogs squads battled in regional competition throughout the week. “So far, so good,” 15U Head Coach Jaime Vela said. “The boys have been playing well.” ...

‘Get out, dunk the chief, get a snow cone’

National Night Out returns after pandemic hiatus

COLUMBIA BASIN — Police cars, fire trucks, information booths, Quincy’s Chief for a Day, snow cones, ice cream, a dunk tank featuring Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr - National Night Out returns with a plethora of activities in three Columbia Basin communities Monday and Tuesday. “It’s a way to increase connections between those who serve and the neighborhoods out there,” Mattawa Police Chief Robert Salinas said...

Hard work and happy accidents

GCSO deputy comes from Colombia to the Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE — Moving to a new place often means you have to start over.

Legals for July, 29 2022

Law enforcement logs for July 29, 2022

The items below are consolidated reports from Columbia Basin law enforcement agencies. All those named as defendants or suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

ICE officer arrested in Othello child sex trafficking investigation

OTHELLO — A 47-year-old Ellensburg man was arrested by Othello Police officers Tuesday in connection with an incident where he allegedly traveled to Othello to pay for sex with a 13-year-old girl.

Semi causes six-car pile-up south of Quincy

QUINCY — Nine people received minor injuries in a six-car pile-up south of Quincy on Wednesday when a semi-tractor trailer failed to stop for construction work near the intersection of S.R. 281 and Road 2 NW, plowing into five other cars before stopping, according to a report from the Washington State Patrol...

Japanese beetles spreading in WA

WAPATO — Officials with the Washington State Department of Agriculture announced this week that Japanese beetles have been found in Wapato, nearly 30 miles away from the current infestation in Grandview, according to a WSDA press release.

Pandemic hog payments to increase

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced this week it is increasing the amount of money in the department’s Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program and expects to make a total of $62.8 million in COVID-19-related pandemic assistance payments to U.S. hog farmers beginning this week, according to a USDA press release.

Barrel racing competition coming to Moses Lake this weekend

MOSES LAKE – The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club will be hosting its Summer Classic Race this weekend at the Grant County Fairgrounds, bringing in riders from the Columbia Basin and beyond. “We put on four classic races a year, and that is our fundraiser for our club. That’s how we earn money for our awards at the end of the season for buckles and different things that we do,” CBBRC President Laurie Coombs said. ...

Jay Ryder Griffin

March 7, 1940 - July 20, 2022

Jay Ryder Griffin, 82, of Prosser, passed away at Prosser Memorial Hospital on July 22, 2022.

Leslie Gordon Torrence

June 15, 1954 - July 5, 2022

Leslie Gordon Torrence - better known as Les - didn’t leave this earth without a fight. In April 2022, Les was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer that was fast processing, although his battle was short - we find peace in knowing his body is no longer hurting or fighting.

ML council increases animal shelter funding

Shelter is falling apart and lacking in space, officials say

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council has increased its support for Grant County Animal Outreach to $100,000 per year following an appeal from the organization’s current board director, Sara Thompson Tweedy, that the current facility is simply no longer capable of meeting the organization’s needs. “We are operating in a dilapidated facility; we are unable to retain staff,” Tweedy, who is also the president of Big Bend Community College. “We have space for 48 dogs and we routinely have 70-plus. We have no outdoor play space, it’s all kennels now. I’m not sure what that means heading into the winter.” ...

Othello Athletic Director Jenny McCourtie

“I think that’s the best part about the job, is giving back”

OTHELLO – Born and raised in Othello, Jenny McCourtie has spent the previous four years as the Athletic Director for Othello High School. “I think that’s the best part about the job, is giving back,” McCourtie said. “Especially to your home town. I’m starting to see the cycle of some of my friend’s kids and people I’ve known my whole life, and just trying to make athletics the best experience - not only for the kids - but for the coaches and for our community.” ...

Fire season is here, are we ready?

What to expect during hot, dry summer

WASHINGTON - With how devastating the 2021 fire season was, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, it is important for residents to know what to expect this year, prevention measures and how to be prepared.

Floodfest celebrates education of the Dry Falls and Sun Lakes

DRY FALLS/SUN LAKES - The annual Ice Age Floodfest was held at the Dry Falls Visitor Center on Saturday and featured the efforts of many to educate the public about the area and its history.

Legals for July, 28 2022

Meeks brings coaching experience in BBCC AD role

MOSES LAKE – John Meeks has spent more than 15 years as a basketball coach, and now, he’s taking his talents to another realm of college athletics. “I've always kind of prided myself on dotting the I's and crossing the T's from an administrative perspective, and I've always enjoyed that side of things,” Meeks said. “So, obviously that leans towards being an athletic director, from an administrative standpoint.” ...

Quincy council approves downtown revitalization plan

QUINCY — A plan that provides a framework for possible improvements to downtown Quincy was approved by the Quincy City Council on July 19. The downtown revitalization plan was approved on a 5-1 vote, with Councilmember Dave Dormaier voting no. “Each of the projects will still have to be vetted again to go out for design and construction,” Municipal Services Director Carl Worley said. “We would look at things again, and if there was something that just wasn’t going to work, if it was identified in the plan, that doesn’t mean we have to do it. It’s not anything in concrete.” ...

Bronco Inn named Travelers’ Choice hotel

RITZVILLE — The Bronco Inn, a Best Western hotel in Ritzville, was recently selected for a Travelers’ Choice Award by the online travel company Tripadvisor. The Travelers’ Choice Certificate of Excellence is given annually to hotels, restaurants and other travel-related businesses that rank in the top 10% in consistently good reviews on Tripadvisor’s website, according to Bronco Inn General Manager Nichole Thiel...

'Beautiful Wounds' highlighted at next Wenatchee Valley Erratics meeting

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Erratics chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute will host its next program on Aug. 9...

Pinned

Moses Lake Fire Department Firefighter Jason Shaddix pins a badge on new MLFD Firefighter Steven Moyer at the beginning of a city council meeting on Tuesday as Deputy Fire Chief Pete Kunjera (right) and City Administrator Allison Williams look on. A Marine Corps veteran, Moyer became a full-fledged MLFD firefighter following a year-long probationary period.

New Samaritan Hospital project paused

Increased costs cause delay while officials work to bridge $31M funding gap.

MOSES LAKE — Construction of a new Samaritan Hospital has been put on hold while hospital district officials work to close the gap between the project cost and the amount of available financing. “(The estimate) is currently sitting at $31 million over where the prior funding was anticipated or received,” Jenks Abram Jenks, one of the consultants working on the project, said...

Lucha in Moses Lake

Mexican wrestling makes its Moses Lake debut

MOSES LAKE — There have been a lot of grand openings, ribbon cuttings and celebrations for new businesses in Moses Lake, but nothing quite like the shindig Paul Carney threw to mark the formal opening of EDUBS C/S at 1102 W. Broadway Avenue last Saturday. “It’s a great day today,” said Yesenia Guzman, an insurance agent with Comparion Insurance in Moses Lake. “It’s hot out here, we’ve got some misters out over at our tent, but absolutely, it’s a wonderful day today.” ...

Nicholas Ray Albrandt

On Sunday, July 24, 2022, we lost the world’s greatest papa. He was only 64 years young.

Hazel Mae Ham

Hazel Mae Ham, “Dolly” to some, went home to be with Jesus on July 22, 2022.

Pop Stop

New beverage shop to offer custom soft drinks, homemade cookies

MOSES LAKE — Some call it pop, others say it’s soda. Either way, it’s going to get a new twist in Moses Lake when a new business opens this summer. “It's the sodas that you know and love,” said Kelsey Edwards, who co-owns Pop Stop with her friend Allie Earl. “And we add different flavorings and add-ins to them to make them fun and yummy, and then we bake our own cookies in the back.” ...

Basin sports schedule for July 27-Aug. 1

COLUMBIA BASIN - Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local, regional and national events...

Q&A: Grant County Sheriff candidates

EPHRATA — The announcement earlier this year by long-time Grant County Tom Jones that he would not seek re-election, followed by his retirement in June, threw the race to be the county’s next top law enforcement officer wide open. Current Grant County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Joe Kriete, former Mattawa Police Chief Joe Harris and farmer James Baker have all filed to run. The two candidates who receive the most votes will face off in November to see who will become Grant County Sheriff. Each candidate was asked about their background and the same four questions, with the answers presented below and lightly edited for clarity. Baker did not respond prior to the deadline given to all three candidates...

Legals for July, 27 2022

Seahawks RB Carson released with injury designation, reportedly to retire

SEATTLE – The Seahawks released running back Chris Carson with a failed physical designation on Tuesday, and Carson will reportedly retire after five seasons in the NFL, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport...

No Limit fishing tourney set for Saturday

Potholes Reservoir to see kayaks aplenty

OTHELLO – The Big Bass Power Hour is coming to Potholes State Park on Saturday, presented by Native Watercraft. The tournament features anglers using kayaks to get across the Potholes Reservoir, either man- or engine-powered. It is part of a five-event series that spans across the U.S. “We are doing five of these events in different parts of the country this year,” Marvin Forte, an event organizer, said. “They’re sort of distinct events, so I wouldn’t really call it a tour.” ...

NCW Libraries open for those trying to stay cool

COLUMBIA BASIN - The Grant County Health District issued a release regarding cooling centers in the area for those trying to stay cool in the heat. The release stated that with temperatures expected to be 100 degrees and over this week, all North Central Washington Libraries are open as cooling centers. ...

Quincy fire damages apartment building, displaces dozens

QUINCY — About 30 people were displaced from their apartments in the 430 block of Quincy’s East Street NE, following a late-afternoon fire Monday that destroyed four of the units and heavily damaged the others. No one was injured...

Ephrata Schools looking for new board member

EPHRATA - In a press release on July 26, the Ephrata School District announced that they were seeking candidates for an open position on the Ephrata School Board.

QVMC board selects architect

Hospital project still dependent on bond approval

QUINCY — Quincy Valley Medical Center commissioners have selected Trinity:NAC, Spokane, to design the new Quincy hospital, if the project moves forward. “This is all contingent on the bond levy,” Joe Kunkel, the consultant working with the hospital district on the project, said. “So, negotiating the agreement, this all stops Tuesday if the bond agreement doesn’t fall in our favor.” ...

Lonnie Stussy

Lonnie Eugene Stussy, son of James Lonnie and Melba Maxine Stussy, passed away Monday, July 18, 2022, after a brief but valiant battle with blood cancer.

Mobile rec van brings fun to the Moses Lake parks

MOSES LAKE — It’s just fun to stack up a bunch of big plastic cups and knock them down. It’s just as much fun to play a supersize connect the dots game. . .

GALLERY: Weekend in Sports

From the diamond to the gym, Basin athletes participated in events throughout the weekend.

Legals for July, 26 2022

WSU linebacker named to Butkus Award watch list

CHICAGO – Washington State linebacker Daiyan Henley was one of 51 players named to the 2022 Butkus Award watch list on Monday, annually presented to the best linebacker in the nation...

EWU's Chism, Jerome named to All-Big Sky lists

SPOKANE – Eastern Washington University receiver Efton Chism III and defensive lineman Joshua Jerome were both named to the preseason All-Big Sky list on Monday at the Big Sky Conference Kickoff in Spokane...

Basic American Foods addresses labor shortage during tour

MOSES LAKE — Even as business in the Columbia Basin expands, companies like Basic American Foods are finding it difficult to find and retain employees, according to Brian Meiners, the Basic American Foods plant manager in Moses Lake. “We have not had a full slate of people since before COVID,” Meiners told Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Yakima, during a visit to the company’s Moses Lake production facility Monday morning...

Mega Millions jackpot at $810 million

OLYMPIA - A press release on July 25 states that the Mega Millions lottery jackpot had grown to $810 million after its most recent drawing yielded no top-tier winners...

Power pole fire causes Monday outage

EPHRATA - At about 8 a.m. Monday, Grant County Public Utility District reported a large power outage just south of Ephrata which had been caused by a power pole fire. Christine Pratt, Public Information Officer for Grant PUD said the outage affected about 1,000 customers initially...

Audition dates announced for Masquers fall musical

'Once on this Island' coming to Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Auditions are scheduled for Aug. 14 and 15 for the fall musical presented by the Masquers Theater company. Auditions for “Once on this Island” will be at 2 p.m. Aug. 14 and 6 p.m. Aug. 15 at the theater, 322 East Main St., Soap Lake.

‘We are looking at the potential for record heat’

Near-record temperatures forecast for the week

MOSES LAKE — It being July and North Central Washington being desert country, it’s to be expected that it’s going to be hot sooner or later. And it will be hot, darned hot, although temperatures are forecast to moderate at least a little bit by the weekend. Steven Van Horn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Spokane, said the Moses Lake and Wenatchee areas will be the first to experience the hottest temperatures, but it will get hot region-wide. “There’s a very high heat risk for the central and north central parts of the state,” Van Horn said.

Mattawa increases dog license and impound fees

MATTAWA — Mattawa City Council members have increased dog license and dog impound fees as part of a review of the city’s fee schedule. “The current (fees) are not covering our costs,” Public Works Director Juan Ledezma said prior to the vote.

Thomas "Tom" Haddox

Tom, 85, a Moses Lake High School former wrestler and 1956 graduate, passed away May 5, 2022.

LaVie Mann Peterson

On July 20, 2022, LaVie Mann Peterson peacefully passed on with her daughter/caregiver at her side.

Cindy Fish

Cindy Fish, our loving mother, grandma and sister, lost her battle against pancreatic cancer on July 17, 2022.

LuDeen Roylance Earl

On July 19, 2022, LuDeen Roylance Earl was reunited with her husband Ken, who had predeceased her in 2004.

Mary Elizabeth 'Beth' 'Whiz' Yarbro

Mary Elizabeth “Beth” “Whiz” Yarbro passed away July 16, 2022. She was at home, surrounded by family.

Regular grooming can keep your cat 'feline' fine

Cats are known to be fastidious groomers, but this doesn’t mean they can do it all on their own. In the summer, especially, the heat and humidity may make owners more conscious about the ways they can help their feline friends stay clean, cool, and well-groomed.

Moses Lake supports Alzheimer’s research

Purple Party attendees fight the impacts of dementia

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce held their annual Purple Party Thursday to raise awareness and money for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. “(The event) just seems to be growing and growing,” said Terri Riley-Brown, a patient care representative for Assured Home Health who helped organize the event...

Basin students make EWU Dean’s List

CHENEY - Eastern Washington University released its dean’s list for the spring quarter 2022. Nearly a hundred Basin students made the list. EWU policies require an undergraduate student who earns 12 quality hours and receives a GPA of 3.5 or better to be placed on the Dean's List.

Moses Lake 10U lose 2, win 1 in Heat Miser Classic

KENNEWICK – Entering the Northwest Nations Youth Baseball Heat Miser Classic with high hopes, 10U Moses Lake fell in both games of pool play at the tournament on Saturday, but came back with the W in Sunday’s consolation round. “It’s tough at 10 years old, when it’s not going well, it’s really not going well,” Head Coach Steve Keller said. “We just couldn’t find that spark that we needed to get us turned around.” ...

Athletes bond at Warden wrestling camp

WARDEN – The gymnasium at Warden High School was filled with wrestling mats over the weekend for the Warden Wrestling Summer Camp. The camp, free to students in the Warden school district, allowed campers to bond and learn new skills in wrestling. Nearly 30 participants came to the camp, ranging from rising sixth graders to seniors. “We were expecting around 20 kids, and we ended up getting around 30,” Warden Wrestling Head Coach Johnny Hernandez said. “It’s a great turnout.” ...

Making ends meet

Royal City Food Bank helps fill the gap between paycheck and pantry

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City Food Bank operates like a well-oiled machine.

Legals for July, 25 2022

Special Olympics scrimmage played in Moses Lake

The Moses Lake Scorpions played a Special Olympics softball scrimmage against Othello on Thursday at Larson Playfield. Check out the Tuesday edition of the Columbia Basin Herald for full coverage.

Fire ban issued for Eastern Washington counties

The Bureau of Land Management Spokane District has issued a fire restrictions order for BLM and Bureau of Reclamation lands. The ban took effect July 22 in the following counties: Adams, Asotin, Benton, Chelan, Columbia, Douglas, Ferry, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Stevens, Walla Walla, Whitman and Yakima...

Mattawa council considers regulating adult entertainment

MATTAWA — Mattawa City Council members will consider possible ordinances to regulate the operation of businesses offering adult entertainment. Council members asked for regulation options after a discussion at the regular meeting Thursday. “If we were to have adult entertainment within the businesses, we need policies that would allow law enforcement to enforce regulations on it,” Celaya said...

Port of Warden to repair airport runway despite lack of state funds

WARDEN — The Port of Warden is going to spend $22,000 to seal the cracks in its airport runway despite the refusal of the Washington State Department of Transport to award the port a grant for the project. “If we’re going to have an airport, we need to take care of it,” said Commissioner Benjamin Leavitt during a regular meeting of the Port of Warden Commission on Thursday...

Mary Helen Fisher

Mary Helen Fisher, 64, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away on July 20, 2022, at her home after losing a 3 1/2-month battle with brain cancer.

A splash of color

Moses Lake gardener cultivates bright hues

MOSES LAKE — Tamara Wallace likes bold colors, and she surrounds her home with them. “I don't fit in with the rest of the neighborhood,” she said, gesturing at the more conservatively-landscaped lawns around her. “We're just kind of this little gem at the end of the road. Everything's bright and colorful.” ...

Professional Dentures

Dentist and denture maker sinks teeth into Basin smiles

MOSES LAKE — Jon Dickson loves to see people smile. “The smile is a big thing,” said Dickson as he sat on a tiny stool in one of his small examination rooms. “I can be a part of that … helping people regain confidence.” ...

Legals for July, 22 2022

Riverdogs 13U,15U head into pool play

EPHRATA — The 13U and 15U Columbia Basin Riverdogs will head to 2022 Babe Ruth Regional competition this weekend, held in Kelso for the 15U and Ferndale for the 13U. Each team will play a minimum of four games against teams from the Pacific Northwest and more, with a chance to advance to the World Series. “Just to come out, be confident in their ability and play within themselves and they'll meet their expectations,” 13U Head Coach Jaret Fulbright said of what he’s told his team in preparation for regional play. “(The) team’s pretty ready to go and compete, and try to win the regional tournament. And I believe we have a team that can win the regional tournament, and move on to the World Series.” ...

MLPD takes win in the Battle of the Badge

MOSES LAKE – The Battle of the Badge returned to Larson Playfield on Wednesday night, with the Moses Lake Police Department defeating the Grant County Sheriff's Office 21-19 in the community outreach softball game. “It’s a good opportunity for the men and women in law enforcement to to get out and compete against each other, but, yeah, have some fun,” Grant County Sheriff Ryan Rectenwald said...

Reykdal announces plan to reallocate timber revenue funding

OLYMPIA - On July 19, State Superintendent Chris Reykdal unveiled his plan to reallocate funding from the K-12 Common School Trust to projects in rural communities and have the state legislature fund the K-12 School Construction Assistance Program through other revenue sources than timber harvesting on state trust lands. “Rural communities in Washington have long generated this revenue through timber harvests and other trust land activities, but are not often the beneficiaries of it,” Reykdal said in the release. “We should be investing this revenue within the communities where it’s generated and using a portion of the dollars to support forest health and preservation.” ...

Basin Community Theatre presents ‘Cinderella’ this weekend

MOSES LAKE — The classic story of a selfless but unappreciated stepchild and how she lives happily ever after comes to the Moses Lake High School theater this weekend in the Basin Community Theatre children’s production of “Cinderella.” The curtain goes up at 7:10 p.m. tonight and 1:10 p.m. Saturday...

Avista warns rural customers restart times after power outages will get longer

SPOKANE — Avista Utilities, which supplies electricity to roughly 400,000 commercial and residential customers across Eastern Washington, including all of Adams County, announced Thursday it is making some temporary changes to electrical transmission to guard against the danger of wildfires created when re-energizing power lines.

Rowland goes full-time for SLPD

SOAP LAKE - Officer Justin Rowland was sworn in as a full-time officer Wednesday after 12 years as a reserve officer for the city of Soap Lake. “(Rowland) has always been the person to be there for the city no matter what,” said Soap Lake Police Department Chief Ryan Cox. “…I have no doubt (he) will continue to be an amazing asset to this community for many years to come.”...

Grant Co. fair cancels poultry showings and auctions as bird flu persists

MOSES LAKE — Organizers of this year’s Grant County Fair have canceled in-person poultry exhibitions and auctions this year in response to the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. “We made the decision to pull the plug on in-person showing of birds,” said Grant County Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan. “We don’t want to be the reason there’s a major outbreak.” ...

Karl Hersey

Karl James Hersey, 61 years old, passed away at home with his closest family members by his side after a short and sudden battle with cancer on July 9, 2022.

Pet of the Week: Ghost Train

Ghost Train is a big Shepherd mix male that came to Adams County Pet Rescue as a stray. He has quite a personality and loves to go for walks with his people. He's athletic and would make a great outdoor active companion. Ghost Train is a 2-year-old male and can be paired with other dogs. Like all of our pets available for adoption, he has been neutered, microchipped and is up to date on vaccinations. For more information, call Adam’s County Pet Rescue at 509-488-5544 or by visiting us on the web at adamscountypetrescue.com. Ghost Train and other pets may be found at our shelter located at 1961 W. Bench Road in Othello.

Ephrata car show brings car gurus together

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Chamber Anything With Wheels Car Show and Shine saw 155 entries this past Saturday. For some however, it is more than just a car show.

Police reports for July 21, 2022

EPD, MLPD, jail

Legals for July, 21 2022

Junior golfers swing into Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - Thirty-nine golfers advanced to state competition on Tuesday from the Washington Junior Golf District 4 Tournament, held at the Moses Lake Golf Club. The state tournament will be held on three different courses around the state, all held from August 2-4. “All the kids that were in that tournament had to qualify in one of four sub-districts that was offered around the central district four area,” District Four Director Jennifer Booth said...

County candidates speak at forum

MOSES LAKE — Elected officials should set a high standard for themselves and hold the people who work for and with them accountable — that was something most candidates at Tuesday evening candidate forum could agree upon...

Good Samaritan saves child

SOAP LAKE - A UPS driver helped save the life of a child who had stopped breathing in a pool at the Smokiam Resort Wednesday afternoon.

Video released of July 10 Stratford Road shooting, chase

QUINCY — The team investigating an officer-involved shooting on Stratford Road on July 10 has released a video of the incident. The video released Wednesday by the Quincy Police Department, which is the lead agency investigating the incident, shows the initial contact between Grant County Sheriff’s Deputy Tyson Voss and the suspect, Robert Gwinn “Voss’s body camera is activated as he attempts to stop Gwinn, who is traveling in a Nissan passenger vehicle,” according to the QPD media release...

Grants created to get youth outside

OLYMPIA–The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office will begin accepting applications Aug. 10 for grants to provide outdoor education and recreation programs for children and to build and maintain trails, boating facilities, and firearm and archery ranges...

Royal City OKs funds for police car, park survey

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City City Council Tuesday evening considered buying a patrol car from the Soap Lake Police Department to fill a need identified by Royal City Police Chief Rey Rodriguez but decided against it, instead budgeting available money for a vehicle already on order. Another vehicle is sorely needed, said Royal City Police Chief Rey Rodriguez...

Rocky Ford history

Just off State Route 17, by the junction with SR 282 is a pull-off with a wooden sign.

Commissioners opt to continue offering QVMC credit

QUINCY — Grant County Commissioners denied a recommendation from the Grant County Finance Committee to immediately reduce to zero the interest-bearing warrant - a type of government loan - balance available to Quincy Valley Medical Center. Commissioners had previously committed to a four-year agreement to bring the QVMC warrant balance to zero. “We made a commitment with the December letter,” Commissioner Cindy Carter said Wednesday...

Q&A: Grant County Auditor candidates

GRANT COUNTY - Michelle Jaderlund and Richard Stevens are running for the position of Grant County Auditor. Each candidate was presented with four questions and an opportunity to provide a short bio to introduce themselves to the voters in the county. Their responses are noted below for our readers and have been lightly edited for clarity.

Big Bend hires new athletic director

MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College hired John Meeks as the school’s new athletic director, bringing along years of coaching experience to Big Bend’s athletic programs...

19 Basin students make Spokane CC honor roll

SPOKANE - Spokane Community College released its honor roll list for the 2022 spring quarter, which ended in June. Nineteen Basin students made the list...

Lowriders & Lucha

EDUBS C/S to host grand opening celebration with a focus on community

MOSES LAKE — It’s not often a brand new business throws a big party for the entire city, but that’s what Paul Carney is planning on doing this Saturday when he formally opens the doors on his clothing store and custom auto shop, EDUBS C/S. “I figured what better way to do a grand opening with a lowrider show,” Carney, an event promoter who relocated to Moses Lake a few years ago from Las Vegas...

Evelyn Lucille Cain-Doolin

Evelyn Lucille Cain-Doolin, 84 years old, went home to her Heavenly Father peacefully in the arms of angels on Thursday, July 7, 2022, at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, Washington.

Hot sun, hot wheels

Othello car show brings out the shiny vehicles

OTHELLO — Hot rods, tricked-out pickups, rare classics – if it had wheels, it was at the All City Classics car show in Othello this weekend.

Legals for July, 20 2022

Basin sports schedule for July 20-26

Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local, regional and national events...

Richard James Stapelman

Richard Stapelman, 90, passed away peacefully at home in Moses Lake, Washington on June 26, 2022.

Q&A with Grant County Assessor candidates

James Liebrecht is running against incumbent Melissa McKnight for the position of Grant County Assessor. Each candidate was presented with four questions and an opportunity to provide a short bio to introduce themselves to the voters in the county. Their responses are noted below for our readers and have been lightly edited for clarity...

New members appointed to Grant County Board of Health

EPHRATA — Changes in state law have resulted in two new members on the Grant County Board of Health, with two more to come. Legislation passed in 2021 required a board with an equal number of elected officials and people who do not hold elective office. “The intent was to bring citizens alongside elected officials to govern local boards of health,” said Theresa Adkinson, Grant County Health District director...

Othello man arrested for assault

OTHELLO - An Othello man was booked into the Adams County Jail Tuesday on suspicion of first-degree assault following an incident in the 2100 block of West Moon Street south of Othello Monday night...

Othello pair suspected in robbery, assault case

OTHELLO — An Othello-area man is being sought in connection with an assault and robbery early Monday morning near Othello. An Othello woman was booked into the Adams County Jail on charges connected to the same case...

Soap Lake man's remains recovered from Alkali Lake

ALKALI LAKE - The man who drowned in Alkali Lake Saturday evening was recovered and identified Monday...

Three more Bulldogs drafted

LOS ANGELES – Three more Zags were drafted in the 2022 MLB Draft, giving Gonzaga four total players selected in this year’s draft...

Suse Doris Jones

December 7, 1944 - July 7, 2022

Suse Doris Jones of Moses Lake passed away at Samaritan Hospital on July 7, 2022...

There is a balm in Soap Lake

Turning healing water into health and beauty products

SOAP LAKE — It’s never been a secret that there’s something, well, healing about the water in Soap Lake.

Legals for July, 19 2022

Ward named to Maxwell Award Watch List

PHILADELPHIA – The Maxwell Football Club announced its 2022 Maxwell Award Watch List on Monday, with Washington State quarterback Cameron Ward being one of the 86 players named to the list...

Multiple fires sparked along SR17 on Monday

GRANT COUNTY — A series of small fires broke out along the westbound lane of SR 17 between Moses Lake and Ephrata Monday afternoon, prompting a major callout of firefighters from Grant County Fire District 5 and Grant County Fire District 13, according to a GCFD5 commander on scene.

Hughes drafted in first round of MLB Draft

SPOKANE - RHP Gabriel Hughes made Bulldog history on Sunday, becoming the highest drafted player in program history.

Ephrata brings in local tennis players for summer league

EPHRATA – The Tuesday night tennis league returns tonight for its third year on the Ephrata High School tennis courts, doubling as a fundraiser for the school’s tennis program...

Clean Shooter Buckle Series results

WARDEN – The Clean Shooter Buckle Series results from the second of four matches were made available Sunday night, with times from Saturday’s runs for the 28 riders in attendance available...

Othello PD identifies graffiti suspect

OTHELLO - In a July 18 press release, the Othello Police Department announced they had arrested an individual involved in vandalism.

Othello man injured in Mesa collision

MESA — Charges of DUI are pending against an Othello man after he rolled his car about 10 miles north of Mesa on Sunday afternoon. Narciso Gomez Sanchez, 53, was driving south on State Route 17 at about 4 p.m. Sunday when his car went off the road and rolled. A press memo from the Washington State Patrol said alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash. Gomez Sanchez was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Kennewick, the press memo said. He was wearing a seatbelt.

Q&A with Grant County Superior Court judge candidates

GRANT COUNTY - Melissa Chlarson and Anna Gigliotti are in the running for the position of Grant County Superior Court judge. Each candidate was presented with a set of questions to highlight their experience and goals for the position. The candidates’ responses are provided below and have been lightly edited for clarity. Candidates’ responses are listed in alphabetical order by last name...

Urban growth area application slows Grant County Jail project

EPHRATA — County officials are working on the application needed to add the site of the new Grant County Jail into the city of Ephrata’s urban growth area. Inclusion in the UGA is a necessary prerequisite to building the jail on the selected site...

Former GCSO officers file $10 million in claims against county

EPHRATA — A pair of former Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies are seeking $10 million in damages from Grant County, alleging officials with the GCSO — including former Sheriff Tom Jones — engaged in retaliatory conduct over an investigation of the sheriff’s brother, who was himself an undersheriff, that eventually prompted the deputies to resign last year...

Gary Byers

Gary Lee Byers, 69, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022, at his home in Yakima.

Gilpatrick Milligan

Gilpatrick Milligan of Coulee City, Washington passed away on July 7, 2022, at his home with his wife, daughter and mother-in-law present. He courageously fought cancer for over five years.

Equine care

Handling gastric ulcers in horses

Stomach ulcers are often associated with stress, but they can also be caused by a variety of factors, including diet and medications. For horses, Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is a common condition that is often diagnosed without its true cause ever being known...

Kovalenko named new Midway Elementary principal

MOSES LAKE — Russell Kovalenko has been selected as the new principal at Midway Elementary in Moses Lake.

15U Riverdogs prepare for regional play

EPHRATA – Following a sweep in the 2022 North Washington Babe Ruth State Tournament, the 15U Columbia Basin Riverdogs will be heading to Kelso for the regional matchups. The winner of regionals will qualify for the 15U World Series in Stafford, Virginia next month. “We got them prepared for the state tournament the week before, and it ended up working in our favor,” 15U Riverdogs Head Coach Jaime Vela said...

‘Warden takes care of its own’

Local food pantry helps people make ends meet, but needs community support

WARDEN — As Ed Backell walks up to the front door of the tiny Warden Food Pantry, he looks down to see a yellow plastic sack sitting on the front porch. It’s filled with cans. A donation left anonymously. “Warden takes care of its own,” he said...

Legals for July, 18 2022

Mounted shooter event hits Warden

WARDEN – Twenty-eight riders made their way to Warden over the weekend for the Clean Shooter Buckle Series meet, a mounted shooter match where riders use Colt .45s while riding a horse.

Q&A with Grant County Commission candidates

GRANT COUNTY - Incumbent Cindy Carter has two challengers, Jeff Foster and Dan DeLano, for her current seat on the Grant County Commission. All three are running as Republicans.

Alkali Lake searched for man suspected of drowning

ALKALI LAKE - Alkali Lake, one of several lakes north of Soap Lake going through the Coulee Corridor, was the site of several searches over the weekend in hopes of recovering a Soap Lake man who was suspected of drowning Saturday evening.

Three-digit national suicide prevention number established

OLYMPIA — A new nationwide three-digit number has been established for those needing assistance with a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Health.

Rod Richeson: Aviation expert has his head in the clouds

Not long after getting his nursing degree, Rod Richeson learned something important about himself.

Dollie Boyd: Helping history put on a good show

Dollie Boyd, city of Moses Lake museum director, is used to the pressure of educating and putting on a good show at the same time.

City to close streets along W. Valley Road Monday and Tuesday

MOSES LAKE — The City of Moses Lake will close several streets along W. Valley Road on Monday and Tuesday as part of the reconstruction and repaving work being done on that road this summer.

Debbie Reynolds (Maddox)

A Celebration of Life for Debbie Reynolds (Maddox) will be held at Frontier Ranch, 32669 Highway 97, Oroville, Washington on Saturday, July 23.

Sandra Kisler

Sandra Kisler, 84, passed away July 13, 2022, in Othello, Washington.

Michael Dean Treadwell

Michael Dean Treadwell was born in Tacoma to Ray and Norma Treadwell on July 3, 1940, and was raised in Eatonville. He passed away due to natural causes on June 3, 2022.

Cornerstone of faith

WARDEN - The original cornerstone of the Warden Community Church, built more than a century ago by German Congregationalists settling the plains of Eastern Washington. The Warden Community Church is one of three congregations that work together to operate the Warden Food Bank. For more information on the food bank, pick up the July 18 edition of The Columbia Basin Herald.

July 25 is National Pet Fire Safety Day

Today is National Pet Fire Safety Day, which can serve as a reminder to pet owners that it’s crucial to be prepared in case of an emergency. The Best Friends Animal Society recommends pet-proofing your home by keeping electrical equipment out of reach, keeping tags and microchips up to date and putting a sticker on your home to let first responders know there are critters inside who may need rescuing. For more pet safety tips, visit bestfriends.org.

Othello car show features slow drags, poker run

Saturday event seeks to entertain while raising money for local causes

OTHELLO — The slow drags are back on Othello’s Main Street Friday night, and Kiwanis Park will host all kinds of cool cars Saturday, as the All City Classics car show returns to town.

Building permits for July 15, 2022

City of Moses Lake, unincorporated Grant County

Legals for July, 15 2022

Moses Lake volleyball camp brings together young athletes

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake High School hosted a volleyball skills camp this week, bringing in over 60 participants from grades 5-8. The Lil Mavs camp was held from Tuesday-Thursday this week, put on by the Moses Lake volleyball coaching staff. “We’re re-establishing it,” Moses Lake Volleyball Head Coach Krystal Trammell said of the camp. “We haven’t had it because of Covid, and so with the new program we’re trying to establish our program culture.” ...

Grant Co. Commissioners Court approves sale of bonds for jail project

EPHRATA — Grant County Commissioners approved a resolution Tuesday authorizing the issue of up to $90 million in limited tax general obligation bonds to pay for law and justice projects, including a new Grant County Jail. The vote was unanimous...

Tigers and Jacks booster clubs hold golf tourney

SOAP LAKE – The booster clubs of Ephrata and Quincy high schools held their second annual Battle of the Boosters golf tournament on Thursday, raising money for the school’s athletic programs. The tournament was held at the Lakeview Golf & Country Club in Soap Lake and will alternate sites each year. Brent Weber, president of the Tiger Booster Club and a 2000 Ephrata alumni, said that the idea was brought up to combine it with the Quincy booster club last year...

WA farmers plant fewer acres of spring wheat in 2022

OLYMPIA — Despite a cooler and wetter spring and early summer, farmers across Eastern Washington have planted fewer acres of Spring Wheat in 2022 when compared with 2021, according to a report issued at the end of June by the Northwest Regional Field of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service...

Murray legislation fails to get unanimous Senate approval

WASHINGTON, DC — A speech by an Oklahoma senator stopped an attempt by Washington Senator Patty Murray and co-sponsors to get unanimous consent to pass a bill related to women traveling for abortion services...

Q&A with Adams County Sheriff candidates

ADAMS COUNTY - The race for Adams County Sheriff attracted two candidates, incumbent Dale Wagner and Matthew Carlson, currently an officer with the Ritzville Police Department. Both are running as Republicans. The Columbia Basin Herald submitted four questions to each candidate and asked them for a brief biography. Their answers have been lightly edited for clarity and length. Candidates were both given a maximum of 200 words to respond to each question and a deadline to respond which they both met...

Othello Food Bank looks to keep the lights on

Food distribution continues as nonprofit seeks funding

OTHELLO — Othello Food Bank director Sharon Mobley was loading the truck Tuesday morning, getting ready for a delivery. Supplying the food is one of the less challenging parts of running the facility, she said. “People kind of forget - you’ve got to keep the lights on,” Mobley said. “We’ve got to keep the refrigerators and freezers going, gas in the truck to pick up all the food. People don’t always think about those things.”

Law enforcement logs: July 15, 2022

COLUMBIA BASIN - The information below was provided by the respective law enforcement agencies, as noted. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Moses Lake celebrates 2 new businesses

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce celebrated two ribbon cuttings this week to honor the opening of Kris Skin Care and Professional Dentures. The two businesses hope to become long-standing parts of the Moses Lake community.

Diana Elaine Brewster

Our beloved mother, nana, great-nana, sister, aunt and friend Diana Elaine Brewster passed away peacefully July 11, 2022, in Moses Lake, Washington.

Legals for July, 14 2022

MLFD, GCFD5 respond to fire behind Safeway in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Crews from the Moses Lake Fire Department and Grant County Fire District 5 responded to a major fire in a 10-acre lot south of Wheeler Road between Safeway and Samaritan Hospital on Wednesday afternoon at around 1 p.m. “We concentrated on this area,” said Moses Lake Fire Department Deputy Chief Pete Kunjara as he stood near a fire truck parked alongside the field and motioning toward the rear of the Safeway. “Trying to protect the Safeway and the hospital.” ...

ML Council approves 2022 chip seal work

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council voted unanimously to spend nearly $1 million on the city’s 2022 chip seal and crack sealing efforts on 38 streets — including the entirety of W. Peninsula Drive — inside the city. “This is part of an ongoing pavement preservation program,” City Engineer Richard Law told council at a regular meeting on Tuesday. “The more we can keep routine maintenance on the street, the longer the substrate and these streets will last.”

Q&A with 7th District candidates

Williams, Maycumber vie to represent Northeastern Washington

With the redrawing of the state legislative boundaries following the 2020 U.S. Census, the sprawling 7th Legislative District — which covers the northeast corner of the state — has gotten even larger, and now includes the northern third of Grant County currently split between the 13th Legislative District and the 12th Legislative District. Vying to represent the district in its first seat are incumbent Jacqueline Maycumber, first elected in 2016, and challenger Lonny Ray Williams. Both candidates are Republicans...

Quincy School Board considering property sale

QUINCY — Quincy School District officials have not set a timeline for the proposed sale of 155 acres south of the current Quincy city limits to the Port of Quincy. “We’ll determine the timeline of the sale (during negotiations),” QSD Superintendent Nic Bergman said...

‘American Pickers’ coming to Washington

MOSES LAKE — The TV show “American Pickers” will film episodes in Washington state in October, according to a press release from Cineflix Productions, which produces the show...

Grant Co. seeks Board of Equalization candidates

EPHRATA — The Grant County Board of Equalization is in need of two more members, the county commissioners announced recently in a press release. The successful candidates will serve a three-year term as alternate members...

Moses Lake athlete beats personal records

Diligent effort takes Perkins to UAATF Junior Olympics

MOSES LAKE — Rising junior Paige Perkins went into the summer with a goal in mind, to make it to the 2022 USATF National Junior Olympic Track and Field Championships. After spending time healing from injuries and training with the Spokane Speed Academy over the summer, Perkins competed in the USA Track & Field Region 13 Championships in Richland - qualifying for Nationals in the process. “They were actually pretty good runners and it pushed me a little bit more from getting back from knee injuries,” Perkins said of her competition at the meet. “It was actually a fairly good meet for me.” ...

Manta Ray Aquatics represent at home meet

MOSES LAKE - Manta Ray Aquatics hosted a meet over the weekend that drew more than 450 swimmers to the Surf ‘n Slide Water Park.

Meek hired as Othello High assistant principal

OTHELLO — Former Moses Lake School District superintendent Josh Meek has been hired as the assistant principal at Othello High School. Meek was included on a list of new hires approved by the Othello School Board during its July 11 meeting...

Ralph Enzler

Ralph Lewis Enzler passed away on June 5, 2022, at the blessed age of 94.

Off the beaten course

Two small golf courses offer unique challenges

SOAP LAKE/EPHRATA — Do you ever get bogged down by how busy some golf courses can be? Are you tired of the same type of courses over and over? Well, Grant County has got your back with a couple of hole-in-the-wall courses sure to shake things up.

Ted Rice Arena hosts junior rodeo

COULEE CITY — The Ted Rice Arena hosted 115 contestants last weekend for the Last Stand Junior Rodeo, bringing in riders under the age of 18 from around the country.

Legals for July, 13 2022

Q&A: Grant County Clerk candidates

Kim Allen, Marla Roduner and Ulises Infante, all of the Republican Party, are in the running for the position of Grant County Clerk. Each candidate was presented with four questions and an opportunity to provide a short bio to introduce themselves to the voters in the county. Each candidate's responses are provided below and have been lightly edited for clarity...

Quincy resident makes dean's list

ROCHESTER, New York - Bailey Kehl of Quincy was named to the Dean's List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the Spring 2022 Semester. Kehl is in the international business program.

Threatened wild bees get help from Washington researchers

OKANOGAN-WENATCHEE NATIONAL FOREST, Wash. (AP) — Few creatures exist closer to the front lines of climate change than wild, native bees. And few are more important, or as irreplaceable. They’ve always been subjected to a long list of existential threats: habitat loss through agriculture, construction and urban development; pesticides, insecticides and other harmful chemicals; and competition from domesticated honeybees...

Murray introduces bill to protect abortion travel

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a press release on July 12, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) said they had filed a bill entitled Freedom to Travel for Health Care Act of 2022...

Q&A with State Sen. Warnick

Incumbent State Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, is running unopposed for reelection. The Columbia Basin Herald posed three questions to her related to her goals for her next term and what challenges she feels the state is facing. Her answers are presented below and have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.

Sports schedule July 13-19

Columbia Basin sports schedule for July 13-19.

Births for June 14, 2022

Samaritan and Othello Community hospitals

Ernest Davidson

Ernie was born to Arrie Lee and Ernestine Davidson in Rico, Colorado in 1941.

Youth use ‘seed bombs’ to heal wildfire-damaged lands

PULLMAN - Youth of the Colville Reservation have partnered with Washington State University Extension to create seed bombs: clay balls of soil and seeds dispersed to start new generations of native plants.

A natural alternative

Organic retailer makes its mark on the basin

MOSES LAKE — Settlers Natural Market may be the Basin’s best-kept secret.

Royal raises the roof

Summerfest fills downtown Royal City with crowds and fun

ROYAL CITY — Once again, Summerfest brought out huge crowds in Royal City Friday and Saturday.

Weekend in Sports

From the diamond to the lakes, several sporting events were held around the Basin this weekend. Check out some photos from these past events.

AG Ferguson says sorority must refund UW housing fees

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced on July 6 that Alpha Omicron Pi, a national sorority, must refund or waive the housing fees it unlawfully charged dozens of University of Washington students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Port commissioners vote to demolish hangar

MOSES LAKE — Commissioners overseeing the Port of Moses Lake voted Monday to demolish several old buildings, including one hangar likely dating from the time of the airport’s original construction in the 1940s.

Gavin Barry Morse

Gavin Barry Morse, 38, of rural Adams County, Washington took his final flight July 2, 2022. Gavin was born September 29, 1983 in Spokane, Washington, as the youngest of four children and only son to Bruce Morse and Maribeth Benson.

Rayda Marie Akins

Sunday morning July 3rd, Rayda Marie Akins, loving Mother of three children and Grandmother of many, peacefully passed away at the age of 87.

Grant County employment keeps rising

OLYMPIA — Grant County’s nonfarm employment increased for 14 consecutive months, April 2021 to May 2022, and the labor force expanded from June 2021 to May 2022. How long the growth will continue is uncertain, however, according to an analysis from the Washington Employment Security Department.

Legals for July, 12 2022

Fishing tournament reels in anglers to Othello

OTHELLO - The fifth Shootout at Potholes fishing tournament was held in Othello this weekend, bringing in anglers from across the Pacific Northwest.

10U Moses Lake wins state tournament

ELLENSBURG – The 10U Moses Lake baseball team won the 10U Cal Ripken 2022 North Washington State Tournament on Saturday, sweeping the competition en route to bringing home the hardware.

Insurance commissioner extends COVID-19 order

OLYMPIA — Insurance carriers will be required to provide reimbursement to physicians for counseling they give to patients on the COVID-19 vaccines until Aug. 5.

Riverdog teams win state tournaments

BREWSTER - The Columbia Basin Riverdogs’ 13U and 15U teams played at Brewster High School this weekend in state tournaments, with both teams advancing to regional play.

Confidently caring for pets after surgery

From routine spays and neuters to dealing with unexpected health conditions, surgery is a nearly inevitable part of pet ownership. By knowing ahead of time what recovery will look like, owners can feel more confident about any procedures their pet may need...

Mattawa council approves annexation application moratorium

MATTAWA — Reversing a decision made June 16, Mattawa City Council members have voted to impose a moratorium on applications for annexation of property into the city. The vote at the regular council meeting July 7 was unanimous.

Time Out Pizza looks for a consistent slice in Othello

OTHELLO — Timeout Pizza co-owner CJ Garza said the crucial ingredient in making good pizza isn’t so much an ingredient as good habits of mind. “I think what makes good pizza is to have consistency,” Garza said. “Yes, the ingredients matter. All that stuff matters, but I feel like consistency in our prep, in our ovens – everything kind of ties in, the cheese, the sauce amount. It all matters, but being consistent day in and day out is really important.” ...

Harbor Freight names three Washington teachers in top 50 finalists

LOS ANGELES - Fifty public high school skilled trades teachers were named as finalists July 2 for Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence.

WCC announces conference basketball matchups

SAN MATEO, CALIFORNIA - The West Coast Conference released matchups for the upcoming 2022-2023 men’s basketball season on Tuesday. Conference matchups include 16 games between teams in the conference.

USDA partners with Washington State to purchase and distribute local food

WASHINGTON, D.C.— The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service announced on July 6, that it has signed a cooperative agreement with Washington State under the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program.

Record July rain falls on Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — It’s been a wet July in the Columbia Basin, possibly the wettest July in the region’s recorded history.

Ronald Lee Gering

Ron went to be with the Lord on July 3, 2022, from a sudden and unexpected heart attack

Leslie Gordon Torrence

Leslie Gordon Torrence, 68, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away July 5, 2022.

Legals for July, 11 2022

Stratford Road closed after shooting, chase

MOSES LAKE — A portion of Stratford Road and Road 7 NE north of Moses Lake were closed Sunday afternoon following an exchange of gunfire between Grant County Sheriff’s deputies and a man wanted in connection with outstanding felony warrants, according to GCSO spokesperson Kyle Foreman.

Lourence Dormaier: Ephrata farmer finds purpose in working the soil

A local man found his purpose in farming and has turned it into a thriving business.

Tiffany Workinger: Royal City resident finds fulfillment in volunteering

In a small town, one of the most vital resources is volunteers, dedicated people who make good things happen for the whole community. Tiffany Workinger is one of those people.

Hot Dog!

New Ritzville restaurant offers gourmet franks, other delectables

RITZVILLE - Ritzville has a new restaurant in town, one that brings a unique twist to food normally seen in a restaurant. “It's been fun, we’ve had a really great turnout,” said owner Jackeline Pacheco. “Ritzville has been very welcoming.” ...

Protecting yourself

The importance of renters insurance

MOSES LAKE — Someday you’d like to own a house, but for the time being, you’re renting a place. It’s not permanent, but it’s home.

Medardo (Leonard) Delgado

Medardo (Leonard) Delgado was born to Carmen and Frank Delgado, who were early settlers on Royal Slope where the family cleared the land and established their farm. He passed away on June 28, 2022 after a long illness.

Cressen Sherry Schmitt

A beloved wife and mother, she will be dearly missed.

Melanie Garza

Melanie Garza, 34, passed away Sunday, July 3, 2022, at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee.

Legals for July, 8 2022

Local youth baseball teams head to Ellensburg for tournament

ELLENSBURG — The 2022 North Washington Cal Ripken State Tournament is being held in Ellensburg through the weekend, with teams from Ephrata and Moses Lake making the trip. The tournament serves as a jumping off point for teams to make the World Series, held in various states across the country. “We’re here with the opportunity to represent Moses Lake for the state tournament,” Moses Lake 10U head coach Steve Keller said. “We have an opportunity to go to the World Series because of what we did as 9-year-olds last year, winning regionals.” ...

A water strategy for the parched West

Have cities pay farmers to install more efficient irrigation systems

“Are you going to run out of water?” is the first question people ask when they find out I’m from Arizona. The answer is that some people already have, others soon may and it’s going to get much worse without dramatic changes...

Environment group seeks state carbon rule comments

OLYMPIA — The Seattle-based Washington Environmental Council is encouraging state residents to submit comments to the Department of Ecology as the agency writes the rules that will enforce the state’s Climate Commitment Act...

Newhouse, Murray focus on flawed VA records rollout

RICHLAND — Both Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Yakima, and Sen. Patty Murray devoted time following the 4th of July holiday pressing the Veterans Administration to improve the way it cares for the country’s veterans...

Quincy downtown revitalization hearing bumped to July 19

QUINCY — A public hearing on the proposed plan for revitalization in Quincy’s downtown has been rescheduled for the third time for the July 19 council meeting...

Rectenwald sworn in as interim Grant Co. sheriff

EPHRATA - Now former undersheriff Ryan Rectenwald was sworn in as interim sheriff for Grant County July 5 by Judge Tyson Hill. Rectenwald takes over the department pending the election of a permanent sheriff this fall after former Sheriff Tom Jones retired earlier this month.

Seattle Cossacks ride into Soap Lake

Classic Harleys get acrobatic flare

SOAP LAKE - Despite the weather taking a turn, the Seattle Cossacks rode down Main Avenue in Soap Lake on Sunday, performing stunts on their motorcycles for the spectators crowding the street to see. “We’d been here, like, 10 years ago, and couldn’t wait to come back,” retired team captain Andrew Nicholson said. “When it was offered to us, we said, ‘We’re on it.’” ...

Othello July 4 celebration hosts two tournaments

OTHELLO — As part of the Othello Chamber of Commerce’s Fourth of July celebration, there were two tournaments held in Lions Park on Monday, one for volleyball and one for basketball.

Columbia Basin Riverdogs to host Babe Ruth World Series

EPHRATA - The Columbia Basin Riverdogs will be hosting the Babe Ruth League World Series for ages 16-18 in Ephrata this August at Ephrata High School.

‘Balance’

Soap Lake gallery hosts art show

SOAP LAKE - Over the weekend, along with all the Fourth of July festivities, an art show was held in Soap Lake. The show was called ‘Balance’. The artist, Mihail Kivachitsky, said he has held shows all over the world and his art represents the ways he interprets the world and things that interest him...

Helen Bruce

Helen Bruce passed away peacefully on the morning of July 1, 2022, in Kennewick, Washington at the age of 95.

Kenneth A. Goodwin

Kenneth A. Goodwin, born Aug. 20, 1946, passed away peacefully at Odd Fellows Home in Walla Walla, Washington on July 4, 2022.

Alfred 'Al' G. Garza

Alfred “Al” G. Garza, 58, a resident of Moses Lake, passed away Saturday, June 25, 2022.

Arnold resigns from Soap Lake City Council

SOAP LAKE - Soap Lake City Council Position 5 member Andrew Arnold gave his resignation unexpectedly at the end of the July 6 city council meeting...

Ephrata woman injured in Quincy-area collision

QUINCY — An Ephrata woman was airlifted to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane after the car in which she was a passenger ran into the back of a semi-truck about five miles west of Quincy about 4 p.m. Tuesday. Jolene Terry, 36, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Victor Flores Meza, 54, Quincy, according to a press release from the Washington State Patrol. Flores Meza was driving west on State Route 28 when his car struck the back of a semi-truck driven by Ruben Lerena, 52, Quincy. Lerena had stopped for a car that was waiting to make a left turn, the WSP memo said. Flores Meza also was injured and was transported to Quincy Valley Medical Center, the press release said. A charge of following too close is pending against Flores Meza, the WSP release said.

Bureau says more than enough Yakima Project water in July

YAKIMA — The Bureau of Reclamation announced an updated water supply forecast for irrigators within the Yakima Project, reiterating previous forecasts that there is enough water to supply all users within the project...

Wash. Lotto celebrating 40 years

OLYMPIA — Washington’s Lottery turns 40 this year, launching a new scratch-off game to celebrate $17.7 billion in total sales, $10.5 billion in total prizes awarded and $2.4 billion to fund education across the state since the lottery was launched in 1982...

MLSD names new assistant superintendent

MOSES LAKE — Carol Lewis, an administrator with the Cheney School District, has been named as the new assistant superintendent for the Moses Lake School District...

Fire put out quickly by GCFD3 and BLM crews

VANTAGE - A fire at the Frenchman Coulee climbing area was quickly put out Tuesday night but had initially prompted a Level 3 evacuation notice...

QPD close to full strength after Diaz sworn in

QUINCY — Jessica Diaz was sworn in as the newest Quincy Police Department officer during the regular Quincy City Council meeting Tuesday. Diaz was sworn in by QPD Chief Keith Siebert before an audience of family, friends and fellow officers.

Quincy swim team helps connect community

QUINCY — Communities big and small are held together with lots of little connections, groups that get together to do - well, whatever, from a service club project to a program at the museum. The Quincy swim team teaches children how to swim, of course, and gives its participants a chance to get a taste of competition. But it also is one of those little connectors that plug back into the bigger community. Kirsten Escure, taking over the coaching duties on a Friday morning, said the program is returning in 2022 after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I think we’re right at 40-ish (participants),” Escure said...

Seniors without a center

Royal Slope group aims to revive activities

ROYAL CITY — The senior scene in Royal City isn’t what it used to be.

Roundabout coming to S.R.17 at Yonezawa Blvd.

Other details of Moes Lake’s six-year streets plan

MOSES LAKE — While it’s not on the list of the city of Moses Lake’s proposed six-year street improvement projects, it’s almost certain that the intersection of S.R. 17 and Yonezawa Boulevard is going to become a roundabout.

July 4 parade fills Othello’s main street, activities fill Lions Park

OTHELLO — Co-organizer of Othello’s July 4 car show Jose Baeza Jr. said the annual parade attracted 39 entries in the car class, an increase from 2021. . .

Independence Day Weekend in sports

The Independence Day weekend saw competitions in BMX, softball, volleyball and basketball.

Legals for July, 6 2022

Wildfire Prompts Evacuation At Frenchman Coulee

VANTAGE - Just before 6 p.m. a Level 3 evacuation notice was issued by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office due to a wildfire near the Frenchman Coulee climbing area....

Moses Lake sees two hole-in-ones over weekend

MOSES LAKE — Two golfers hit holes in one at The Links at Moses Pointe this weekend, with Moses Lake’s AJ Escamilla and Royal City’s Wiley Farrer both leaving the course with the honor of hitting one. “I don’t know that that’s ever happened here,” Director of Golf Bill Porter said of two golfers hitting a hole in one in the same weekend. “The odds are a really, really, long shot that that would happen.” ...

Sports schedule July 6-12

COLUMBIA BASIN - Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local, regional and national events...

Woman injured in Othello-area collision

OTHELLO — A 31-year-old woman was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland after she was injured in a collision about 15 miles west of Othello Monday morning...

Melcher appointed to Charter School Commission

MOSES LAKE — Vickey Melcher was recently appointed as a commissioner for the Washington State Charter School Commission and Melcher said she wants to change the conversation about charter schools. “The goal is to increase graduation rates and the way to do that is to meet the educational needs of all the students,” said Melcher... ..

Sockeye fishing expands on Columbia River

OLYMPIA – Sockeye fishing will open from the Astoria-Megler Bridge on the lower river to the Highway 395 Bridge at Pasco, and daily limits increase from there to Chief Joseph Dam near Bridgeport on the upper river, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife...

Christensen buys United Oil

RICHLAND — Christensen, a leading distributor of refined petroleum products across the Pacific Northwest, announced on Tuesday it has purchased Boise-based United Oil...

Trash mob keeps Soap Lake clean

SOAP LAKE — A group of volunteers is making a difference in Soap Lake one ‘mob’ at a time. Every so often the call goes out for volunteers for a one-hour “trash mob'' to clean up different areas of Soap Lake. The most recent call went out to clean up the firework debris from East Beach Park on July 5. About a dozen volunteers showed up early Tuesday morning with bags, gloves and rakes...

Seniors schedule for Jiuly

COLUMBIA BASIN – The Columbia Basin has several senior centers scattered around its various cities. Below are events hosted by three of those senior centers. For more information such as any associated costs, menus and time changes, please reach out to the senior center hosting the event. This listing is noncomprehensive and additional senior centers will be added each month....

Usage increasing at Moses Lake Food Bank

Donations sought to help with summer demand

MOSES LAKE — Even in the summer, the Moses Lake food bank is still busy. Moses Lake Food Bank Director Peny Archer said more people seem to be using the food bank in summer 2022. “Our numbers are starting to climb again,” Archer said...

Unsung heroes treat wastewater in Moses Lake

This is what happens after the toilet is flushed.

MOSES LAKE — As the person in charge of the city of Moses Lake’s wastewater treatment facilities, Chris Campbell understands the importance of what he and his staff of 10 do every day. “I mean, we would be back in the dark ages if we didn’t do this work,” Campbell said as he stood in the midst of the city’s Dunes Wastewater Treatment Facility, which sprawls across roughly 300 acres south of I-90. “We’re preventing plague. We’re preventing dysentery.” ...

The Cattle Battle: Bovine Respiratory Disease

One of the greatest issues cattle owners face is Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), a complex condition that can affect cattle of any age and breed...

George goes all-out for patriotic bash

GEORGE — You would expect a town named for our first president to pull out all the stops for the Fourth of July - and you’d be right to do so. “It’s a chance to meet with people, and let them get a taste of the healing waters,” said Andrew Vozniy of Soap Lake, who manned a booth with Nikita Vozniy to sell soaps and lotions made with Soap Lake water...

Soap Lake’s Suds N’ Sun brings all the fun

SOAP LAKE - The City of Soap Lake was bustling with Fourth of July fun over the weekend....

Legals for July, 5 2022

Food, fireworks and music

Moses Lake Freedom Fest takes over McCosh Park

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake marked America’s founding over the weekend with Freedom Fest, a three-day celebration held in McCosh Park. The crowd wasn’t as big as at the record-setting Spring Festival the town held over Memorial Day weekend, which included a carnival, car show and basketball tournaments. “It’s been really slow,” said Cynthia Small, owner of Smulligans Pizza & BBQ, as she dished out brisket sandwiches and lemonade Saturday. “Springfest was huge, so we expected the same.” “It came in spurts,” added employee Kris St. George...

Casey sworn in as SLSD superintendent

SOAP LAKE - Kim Casey is sworn in as the new Superintendent of Soap Lake School District on Friday. She comes to the Soap Lake School District from Grandview, where she was the high school principal. She walked in the Suds N’ Sun parade on Sunday so residents could see that she is committed to being a part of the community, not just the schools.

Slowpitch tournament hits Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - Slowpitch softball teams from around the state gathered at Larson Playfield and the Paul Lauzier Athletic Complex in Moses Lake this weekend for the Big Band tournament. Teams completed pool play on Saturday before entering a single-elimination tournament on Sunday. “I run about 5-6 tournaments,” said Isaac Valdez, World Sports League regional director. “I have directors that run tournaments in the Tri-Cities area and directors that run tournaments on the west side of the state that run tournaments over there.” ...

Local BMX track brings in riders from around state

MOSES LAKE - With a newly-installed track, the Moses Lake BMX Association has begun hosting races twice a week, taking place on Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. at the Larson BMX Track. “We’re racing twice a week right now, our season goes from April through November,” track operator Jeff Neihenke said. “Kids race anywhere from one-and-a-half-year-olds, and we actually have a 55-and-over classification.” ...

MLFD saves pets from Marina Dr. fire

MOSES LAKE — Firefighters responding to a fire at a trailer house on Marina Drive last Thursday rescued and resuscitated some pets that had been trapped in the burning house, according to a press release from the Moses Lake Fire Department.

Shawna Kluge: Rescuing goes both ways

A Soap Lake woman is making a difference through rescuing animals in Grant County, and they are making a difference in her life as well.

Cari Cortez: Managing the moving pieces of the housing shortage

Cari Cortez’s official title with the City of Moses Lake is housing and grants coordinator. It sounds simple, but there’s more involved than people may realize.

Multi-Agency Communications Center: Emergency dispatch requires ‘a special kind of person’

It takes a special kind of person to be a 911 dispatcher, says Dispatch Supervisor Jennifer Pitt, who has worked at the Multi-Agency Communications Center for about 17 years.

CBH closed on July 4

The Columbia Basin Herald will be closed on Monday, July 4 and no Monday edition will be issued so that our staff may spend the holiday with their loved ones. News tips may be submitted to editor@columbiabasinherald.com and voicemails left at 509-765-4561 will be responded to as soon as possible Tuesday. We hope you and yours have an amazing holiday weekend.

July 4 fun in the Columbia Basin

COLUMBIA BASIN - The Columbia Basin has several different events over the Fourth of July weekend for people of all ages to enjoy.

Battle of the Badge to return to Larson Playfield

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Police Department and Grant County Sheriff's Office will be hosting their Battle of the Badge community outreach softball game on July 20, raising money for local community outreach programs. “It’s a great event,” MLPD Evidence Technician Miranda Martinez said. “It’s been a great way to get people to come out and we’re human too, you know. We just want to go out there and have fun. At the same time, it’s entertainment.” ...

The little things

Hiring a handyman for small jobs

MOSES LAKE — It’s not a very big job you’ve got in front of you. A fence with a few holes, a door to replace, something like that.

Legals for July, 1 2022