Ellington

American League West Preview Capsules

Capsules of American League West teams, listed in order of finish last year

Crazy for cranes

Othello festival draws bird enthusiasts for 24th year

OTHELLO - The annual Othello Sandhill Crane Festival saw a large turnout this year after a virtual festival in 2021 and a canceled event in 2020. “The main point (of the festival) is education, of not only the birds but the habitat,” said festival committee co-coordinator Mike Stevenson. The three-day festival brought...

Ephrata boys soccer falls to East Valley in tight matchup

EPHRATA — The Ephrata boys soccer team took a tough loss in overtime Tuesday night against East Valley.

Sports schedule March 31-April 6

March 31-April 6, 2022

Charles Edmund 'Ed' Ward

Charles Edmund “Ed” Ward, 81, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away at Samaritan Hospital on March 26, 2022, at 10:40 p.m.

Additional COVID-19 boosters recommended

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Health has approved a second mRNA COVID-19 booster shot for people over 50 and some immunocompromised individuals, according to a department press release issued Wednesday. The department said individuals eligible for the second booster shots of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines could receive those shots four months after receiving the first booster shots. The new guidance follows revised guidelines from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control...

Inslee designates pickleball as official state sport

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND — Gov. Jay Inslee designated pickleball as the state sport on Monday during a ceremonial bill signing on Bainbridge Island, where it all began.

Tiny airport eyes big future

MOSES LAKE — Members of the Moses Lake Airport Advisory Board are struggling with the future direction of the city’s tiny airport.

Legals for March, 31 2022

I-90 work extended through Friday near Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Work on westbound I-90 exits in and near Moses Lake is slightly behind schedule and has been delayed, with exit closures slated for Friday, according to a statement from the Washington Department of Transportation. According to WSDoT, the contractor for the project will close westbound exit 169 at Hiawatha Valley Road and westbound exit 164 at Dodson Road from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Both exits are expected to open to traffic again by Friday evening. Work on the Hiawatha Road exit was originally scheduled for Thursday, but was delayed due to planning issues that put the work on westbound exits between mileposts 164 and 175 days behind. The roadway is being resurfaced near the two affected intersections.

Homelessness declines in Grant County

MOSES LAKE — The number of unsheltered homeless people in Grant County dropped between 2020 and 2022, according to an annual survey conducted by local social service agencies. . .

MLSD board considers warehouse options

The Moses Lake School Board is potentially looking to adjust its use of storage space.

Ephrata boys golf team growing as competitors

EPHRATA — The Ephrata High School boys golf coach has high expectations for his team. “They're a bunch of guys that love to play and they are highly competitive kids, with themselves along with each other. I mean, they all want to beat each other and that's a benefit...

Deloris Fay Brown

Deloris Fay Brown was 90 years old when she left this earth, in the loving arms of her heavenly Father, on Feb. 27, 2022, at Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake, Wash.

Police records for March 30, 2022

MLPD

Wayne Frost

Wayne Allen Frost passed away March 4, 2022, at the age of 82, in Ephrata, Wash.

Bobby William Fenstermaker

Bobby William Fenstermaker, 50, of Moses Lake, Wash., passed away March 27, 2022.

Legals for March, 30 2022

Ditchriders call in sick

OTHELLO — A number of union employees with the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District called in sick on Monday and Tuesday, just as the district was beginning to fill and prime its irrigation system, according to ECBID Secretary/Manager Craig Simpson.

Moses Lake softball takes 3 for 3 in weekend matchups

MOSES LAKE — Over the weekend, the Moses Lake High School fastpitch softball team took three victories as they got started with the spring season. Moses Lake took on Eisenhower High School in a doubleheader Friday and University High School Saturday. During game one on Friday, Morgan Ross threw a gem...

Wahluke takes doubleheader

MATTAWA — The Wahluke High School girls fastpitch team took both games of a doubleheader against Toppenish High School on March 26.

Phyllis ViAnne Lowther

Phyllis ViAnne Lowther, 92, of Moses Lake, Wash., passed away March 22, 2022.

Federal legislation could bring Narcan units to more Washington schools

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Schools may soon have better resources to respond to student drug overdoses under legislation introduced by U.S. House Republicans last week.

Wahluke track camp brings in big names

MATTAWA — Wahluke High School saw a star-studded line up of professional athletes and coaches Saturday for a track and field camp for local athletes to sharpen their skills.

Samaritan Healthcare ends 2021 in the black

COVID-19 repercussions cause backlog

MOSES LAKE — The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to make themselves felt, including financially.

Adolfo Coronado works to teach life lessons to his basketball team

OTHELLO — Adolfo Coronado said he tries to apply some of the lessons from his day job to his coaching job. . .

Police reports for March 29, 2022

MLPD, EPD, jail

Cyclists injured in DUI near Rock Island

Two bicyclists were injured Sunday when they were struck by a car on state Route 28 near Rock Island, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Legals for March, 29 2022

'Work, Fight, Give'

Exhibit of WWII artwork highlights calls for support of the war effort

MOSES LAKE — As supporters of Ukraine crowdfund to raise money to help the over 3 million refugees fleeing invading Russian troops, it’s good to remember this isn’t the first time Americans have been asked to help victims of war abroad. As Dottie Boyd, manager of the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center, wanders the center’s new exhibit, a collection of American civilian relief posters from the WWII called “Work, Fight, Give,” she notes how the posters...

Burke knows best

Moses Lake city clerk recognized

MOSES LAKE — As clerk for the City of Moses Lake, Debbie Burke knows her stuff. “I like the responsibilities,” Burke said. “I’m a problem solver and like to make sure things get done right and according to law. It’s rewarding.” And she has an award to prove it, too...

Thello softball off to a fast start

Huskies shut out Vikings in doubleheader

SELAH — The Othello High School softball team continued its early-season undefeated streak with a sweep of Selah High School in a doubleheader Saturday in Selah. The Huskies won 12-8 in the first game and 15-4 in the second game. Head coach Rudy Ochoa II said...

Moses Lake native looks to Marine Corps for unique challenges

MOSCOW, Idaho — To say that Moses Lake native Abram Ramirez likes a challenge is an understatement. A sophomore at the University of Idaho, Ramirez is pursuing a degree in animal and veterinary...

MLCA/CCS baseball returns after 5-year hiatus

Lions fall to Billygoats in doubleheader, but happy to be on the diamond

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School baseball team is back in action after half a decade. MLCA/CCS Athletic Director Josh Kast said this is the first baseball season for the school in five years...

Blue Rouge Garden and Nursery

Moses Lake attorney shares her happy place

MOSES LAKE — The big yellow building on W. Broadway Ave. is Kimberly Ries Ashley’s happy place. “I have been practicing domestic law since 1999. Okay, so I’m one of those divorce lawyers,” Ashley said. “And it’s not an easy job.” You’re dealing with the most intimate and most important parts of people’s lives, Ashley explained — family, homes...

Basin students make UW dean's list

SEATTLE - The University of Washington released its list last week of students named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2021 quarter. The following Basin students were named: Ephrata: Alexander Onesimo Escalera Sanchez, Heber Guerrero, Maurisa Michelle Joe, Leonardo Ochoa Moses Lake: Mark Petrovich Fedorchuk,...

Pet talk: Keep your bovine feeling fine

Pain management in cattle

Unlike many animals that vocalize their discomfort, cattle tend to suffer in silence ...

I-90 repaving to close lanes, exits this week

MOSES LAKE — Travelers westbound on Interstate 90 will experience some delays next week as paving begins on a section of freeway near Moses Lake. . .

Legals for March, 28 2022

Track and field teams compete to determine best in the Basin

QUINCY - Quincy High School was home to the Best in the Basin track and field meet on March 24. The event saw five teams from the Columbia Basin, Ephrata High School, Quincy High School, Royal High School, Othello High School and Wahluke High School compete for victory. The question remains, who is the best in the Basin?...

Two injured in Grand Coulee collision

GRAND COULEE — Two women were injured and one may be facing charges of vehicular assault after a two-car, head-on collision early Sunday morning near the Grand Coulee city limits. According to a press memo from the Washington State Patrol...

EPA grants $52 million to Washington for water infrastructure

SEATTLE — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced in a press release Thursday it will help fund Washington’s $22 million plan for key drinking water projects and $253.5 million plan to improve wastewater infrastructure. In addition to this round of funding, Congress recently passed...

QPD investigators seeking suspect in Wednesday shooting death

QUINCY — Quincy Police Department officers are Horacio Morales Perez, 18, in connection with the death of Juan Carlos Diaz Guerrero Jr. who died as the result of a Wednesday night shooting. Morales Perez is described as five feet, nine inches tall, weighing about 175 pounds...

Decorating with antiques and collectibles

Put them on display, local experts say

MOSES LAKE — Decorator Bruce Bailey said he advises his clients who are collectors, or who have antiques, to show them off. “You kind of give them pride of place,” he said. “That’s what I do with some of mine.” ...

BBCC baseball coach excited for season

MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College head baseball coach Chase Tunstall said he is excited for the season and is working with an even mix of fresh faces and returning players. “I would say probably the best thing so far is...

Basin sports schedule March 27-30

COLUMBIA BASIN - Below is a noncomprehensive list of sports events in the Columbia Basin from March 27 to March 30. March 27 11 a.m./2 p.m. Big Bend Community College baseball doubleheader vs. Everett at Everett. March 28 4 p.m. Royal boys junior varsity soccer vs. Mabton at Royal High School, 955 Ahlers Road NW...

So, who’s going to pay for that? County, canal district talk road repairs

QUINCY — As work crews with Tommer Construction rebuilt and shored up the banks of an irrigation canal that collapsed last Friday with resulting floods washing out a section of Frenchman Hills Road, officials with Grant County and the Quincy Columbia Basin Irrigation District met Thursday morning to consider three very important questions.

Dog and cat vaccinations, Ephrata dog licenses available Saturday

EPHRATA — Microchipping and some vaccinations will be available for cat and dog owners, and Ephrata residents will be able to purchase discounted dog licenses, at an event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Ephrata Recreation Center, 112 Basin St. SW. The event is hosted by...

Hen molting: What to egg-spect

While the average pet owner may be familiar with the seemingly never-ending tufts of fur shed by their cat or dog, the hobby farmer may be more familiar with another loss of overcoat — hen molting.

Balanced Body Massage

Therapist Savagely emphasizes the importance of self-care, pain management

EPHRATA - Laura Savage, founder and owner of Balanced Body Massage in Ephrata, says becoming a massage therapist wasn’t something she was looking for – it found her. “I wasn’t really searching. It’s not something I knew from childhood I wanted to do or anything like that,” Savage said. “My family ran a hotel in Soap Lake, and I helped manage that for them. … I wanted to help bring more people, more diverse people to the area and I thought, ‘Well, what can I do?’ Then all of a sudden, I had an accident that wasn’t very good. I fell off my horse, hurt my back really bad.” That accident sent Savage on a search...

Alicia Gomez Reyes

Alicia Reyes was born in Crystal City, Texas, the Spinach Capital of the World.

Joseph Paul Warnick

Joseph Paul Warnick of Moses Lake died March 11, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Richard Lane

Richard Steven Lane was born Nov. 24, 1956, to Robert (Bob) L. and Geraldine (Gerri) M. Lane, in Granger, Wash.

Bernice Russell

Bernice Russell was born on Sept. 10, 1921, in Eltopia, Wash., to Tony and Minnie Hoffman.

Police reports for March 25, 2022

Ephrata PD, Grant County Jail

Shooting fish: Moses Lake Carp Classic has eyes on growth

MOSES LAKE — “Disneyland.” That’s how Ty Swartout described Moses Lake.

Let's go fishin': What you need to know about licenses

MOSES LAKE — With the arrival of spring, it’s time to get out your pole and net, clean off that boat and get ready to go fishing.

Soap Lake school board responds to community concerns

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake School Board issued a release on March 20 addressing concerns by the public at Soap Lake School Board meetings.

Emergency COVID-19 insurance orders extended into April

OLYMPIA– Two emergency orders issued relating to COVID-19 have been extended until April 28, according to a press release from the Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s Office.

Fishing potential promising for local anglers in 2022

COLUMBIA BASIN — The fishing this spring at Potholes is, in a word, excellent.

Legals for March, 25 2022

Police in standoff outside home near Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Police are negotiating with a man who has barricaded himself in his rural Moses Lake home and is refusing to come out.

Basin sports schedule for March 25 & 26

COLUMBIA BASIN - Below is a noncomprehensive list of sporting events in the Columbia Basin for March 25 and 26. March 25 11 a.m./1 p.m. Wahluke varsity and JV baseball vs. Toppenish at Wahluke High School, 505 N. Boundary Rd., and Wahluke Junior High, 502 N. Boundary Rd., Mattawa 3 p.m./4:30 p.m. Moses L...

REC asks for annexation

MOSES LAKE — REC Silicon is asking the city to add 163 acres to the city’s urban growth area for future potential expansion.

Moses Lake mulls future of muni airport

MOSES LAKE — The City of Moses Lake is looking at options for the future of the Moses Lake Municipal Airport.

Othello area standoff ends with surrender of suspect

OTHELLO — An Othello-area man surrendered to law enforcement officers after barricading himself in a residence when Adams County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to talk to him Wednesday afternoon.

Desert Rose Floral Designs Local owner celebrates a team effort

OTHELLO — Desert Rose Floral Designs owner Melody Anguiano was looking for a career opportunity, and found it in a business that technically wasn’t for sale...

Police records for March 24, 2022

MLPD, March 22

Births for March 24, 2021

Samaritan, Othello Community hospitals

Mod Pizza coming to Moses Lake, Chipotle a possibility

MOSES LAKE — Seattle-based Mod Pizza will be opening a restaurant in Moses Lake, with opening scheduled for spring 2023.

Gary Holm

Gary Holm, 69, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully late on the night of March 14.

Legals for March, 24 2022

Moses Lake steps out for Brews & Tunes

MOSES LAKE - The Downtown Moses Lake Association held their annual Brews & Tunes event on March 19. “It's just so fun to see people and this time of year is perfect. People are tired of winter, they want to get out. They want to just enjoy themselves and listen to music and have good beer,” said Moses Lake resident Lisa Porter, who was at the event with her husband James. This year’s event had many members happy to be...

Grant County revamps processes in wake of audit findings

EPHRATA — Grant County officials will introduce new procedures when awarding federal funding following a finding from the Washington Auditor’s Office that county officials didn’t have adequate supervision of funds distributed for COVID-19 relief. The cause, according to the audit report, was...

Honored: MLHS alum Omori discusses career successes

MOSES LAKE - Ron Omori, a Moses Lake High School graduate, recently paid a visit to his hometown after leaving Moses Lake to go on to become a pro baseball player, international officiator and coach. “I’ve been lucky,” Omori said...

Almira school to be rebuilt by fall 2023

ALMIRA - There was no school that day. The power was out and people were at home, but then a fire broke out in a building without sprinklers. Almira’s Elementary and Middle School sat on top of the same crawlspace as a school that burned down in the 1950s. Once the flames reached the old open crawl space, the fire spread beneath the building, engulfing it, said Gene Sementi, Almira School Rebuild project manager. “The fire was complete; there wasn’t a book...

MLPD call log for March 18-20

The information below is a noncomprehensive listing of calls responded to by the Moses Lake Police Department from March 18-20. March 18 Report of a traffic accident in the 6700 block of Randolph Road NE. Reporting person said he struck a dog which ran across the road and was then struck by another...

Basin sports schedule for March 24

March 24 Basin sports schedule

COLUMBIA BASIN - Those interested in catching local sports matchups can head out to support high school athletes at the events below: March 24 4 p.m. Wahluke varsity and JV soccer...

Bill passage sets stage for local silicon manufacturing

MOSES LAKE — A tax break for solar manufacturers championed by Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, passed nearly unanimously during the recent legislative session and is sitting on Gov. Jay Inslee’s desk awaiting his signature. “I don’t see where he is scheduled to sign it,” said Warnick about Senate Bill 5849, which would extend tax breaks for manufacturers of solar panels and components. “He has 30 days to sign it or it becomes law. I assume he’s going to sign it.” The bill is one of several...

Joan Coulson

Joan Coulson was born Jan. 8, 1932, in Smoot, Wyoming to Reuben Earl Johnson and Lillian Melvina Swenson, the fourth of five children.

Ralph Baker

Ralph Wayne Baker, 42, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away at his home in Tucson, Arizona Friday, Feb. 11, 2022.

Mary Ann (Molitor Musto) Cornwell

Mary Ann (Molitor Musto) Cornwell, 77, changed addresses on us Friday, March 12, 2022, in her home that borders the fifth hole of the Lakeview Golf & Country Club.

Legals for March, 23 2022

WA legislature examines active shooter drills

Effectivness, frequency debated in Olympia

OLYMPIA - Washington schools will soon have to follow new guidelines when practicing active shooter drills under legislation signed by Gov. Inslee last week. House Bill 1941 intends to address rising mental health concerns around the state; legislators in support of the bill claim active shooter drills cause unnecessary trauma and are not preventative in a shooting. In a Senate floor debate earlier this month, Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, opposed...

Basin athletes shine at WindBreaker Invitational

WAHLUKE - Wahluke was the home to the WindBreaker track and field invitational over the weekend where several Columbia Basin schools participated and took home top five finishes over the weekend. Moses Lake High School, Quincy High School, Wahluke High School, Royal High School, Othello High School...

BBCC takes on Edmonds and Pierce in weekend tournament

MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College hosted Edmonds and Pierce colleges for a three-team baseball tournament over the weekend. BBCC head coach Chase Tunstall said he is excited for the season and is working with an even mix of fresh faces and returning players. On Friday, the Big Bend Vikings...

WSDA seeks farmers' assistance in wheat survey

OLYMPIA — If you’re a dryland wheat farmer in Grant or Adams counties, the Washington State Department of Agriculture would like your help. According to a department press release, WSDA is seeking information from dryland wheat farmers across the state about soil management practices, particularly relating to...

WA state parks announces new director

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission announced on March 16 the appointment of the agency’s first female director since the agency was established more than 100 years ago. Diana Dupuis, selected after a nationwide search...

SLPD recovers vehicle, restarts municipal enforcement

SOAP LAKE - Soap Lake Police Department recovered a stolen vehicle over the weekend and announced the return of Municipal Court fines. On March 18, SLPD received a call from a concerned citizen who stated there appeared to be an out-of-place vehicle near the entrance to the Boy Scout camp on the west side of Soap Lake...

Grant PUD resumes in-person services

EPHRATA — The Grant County PUD commissioners will meet in person for the first time in about two years today in the commission office at PUD headquarters, 30 C St. SW. Customer service offices have been reopened as well. Commissioners have been meeting...

Legals for March, 22 2022

Quincy takes Kiona Benton 11-0

3-1 start to season sees the Quincy boys rolling strong

QUINCY - Over the weekend, the Basin was exploding with spring sports. Those sports included team sports such as baseball, softball and soccer or individual sports like track and field, tennis and golf. Among those teams were the Quincy boys soccer team...

ACSO Sergeant takes honors at FBI Academy

QUANTICO, VA - The Adams County Sheriff's Office announced March 17 that ACSO Sergeant Juan Garcia graduated from the FBI National Academy with honors. “We are so proud of his accomplishments and are looking forward to him sharing his new knowledge and experience with our agency and our community,” the announcement stated. According to fbi.gov...

Time out: Moses Lake landmark out for repairs

MOSES LAKE — There’s something missing from the middle of the intersection of W. Third Avenue and Ash Street in downtown Moses Lake. On Tuesday, March 15, a maintenance crew with the city of Moses Lake took down the clock in the center of the intersection and moved it so it could be taken apart, repaired and repainted...

Othello set to clean up in April

OTHELLO — Othello residents will have the chance to dispose of grass piles and tree limbs - and old appliances and scrap metal, among other junk - during the annual spring cleanup week April 4 through 9, according to an announcement from the city. This is the 24th year the city has sponsored...

Canal breach washes out roadway south of Quincy

GEORGE — The failure of an irrigation canal early Friday morning washed away a portion of Frenchman Hills Road west of Dodson Road and forced county officials to close a stretch of the road, according to a post on the Grant County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page. According to GCSO spokesperson Kyle Foreman, a little after 12 a.m. Friday...

Police Logs March 11-14

March 11 Report of an armed robbery and possible vehicle theft at the intersection of Miller Street NE and Longview Street NE. Reporting party said he was punched several times by a passenger and then hit with a pistol as he was driving. Report of a domestic disturbance in the 1100 block of W. Gem Avenue. Suspect was taken into custody...

Land bureau seeks teacher for internship

WENATCHEE — The Bureau of Land Management, which oversees public lands across the United States, is seeking a local K-12 teacher for its Teachers on Public Lands summer internship program. According to a Bureau press release, the selected teacher...

Legals for March, 21 2022

SLPD updates for early March

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake Police Department has been busy the last couple of weeks, recovering stolen vehicles and receiving grants. SLPD reported on several recent actions involving their officers on March 15

WA Dept. of Health announces pandemic recovery plan

OLYMPIA - The pandemic is easing up and with it, the state is transitioning its focus onto other areas while entering a new phase of recovery, according to Department of Health officials on Wednesday. Dr. Umair A. Shah, DOH Secretary of Health, said that, as the pace of the pandemic slows, the state is beginning to focus on other areas of public health. The WA Forward plan...

Juan José Martínez

Long time Moses Lake resident, Juan José Martínez, at the age of ninety-nine years-old, was called to the Kingdom of Heaven, on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. He is reunited with his wife, Kathryn, and eldest son, Miguel. Mr. Martínez is survived by his two sons and four grandchildren...

70 years: Former Warden couple celebrates platinum anniversary

WARDEN — Kay L. and Norma Lybbert said one of the keys to a successful marriage is commitment. The Lybberts have some experience in that - they were married in 1952 and will celebrate their 70th anniversary this month. Norma Lybbert said it hasn’t always been easy, but they always found a way. “We always worked it out,” she said...

Roberta Mae Brown

Roberta Mae Brown age 82 of Moses Lake, WA Passed away on March 9 in Moses Lake.

USDA looks to issue food aid grants to school districts

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking applications for school districts to buy locally produced food under the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program. According to a USDA press release, the agency has $200 million to give to state governments...

Pesty business

Managing household pests as spring comes on

MOSES LAKE - With spring upon us, many animals are making their presence known, including the pesky ones that homeowners and renters alike do not want to see around their residences. Some of these unwanted pests include cockroaches, beetles, termites, mice, rats, ants, wasps, earwigs, spiders, bed bugs and flies. Knowing how to deter and eliminate these pests can aid residents in enjoying their spaces and save them from undo stress. The first step is to identify...

Legals for March, 18 2022

Super Search: Pt. 2

MLSD offers Sabin head administrative post

MOSES LAKE —The Moses Lake School Board has asked Monty Sabin to be the district’s next superintendent. At a special board meeting Thursday afternoon, the board voted unanimously to extend Sabin, currently the assistant superintendent for operations in the North Thurston School District in Lacey, an offer. “Between his mix of experience, his mix of where he’s worked, the size of districts, small and big...

Spring sports are here!

Baseball, softball, golf, track and field, soccer and tennis this weekend

COLUMBIA BASIN - Spring sports are already up and running around the Columbia Basin. Among the spring sports are baseball, softball, golf, track and field, boys soccer and tennis. This weekend’s events include, but are not limited to...

East Park improvements discussed at Quincy meeting

QUINCY — Planned and possible upgrades to Quincy’s East Park, and discussions related to design and design costs, dominated the Quincy City Council meeting Tuesday. East Park is home to the city’s skate park and the city swimming pool, the Quincy Aquatic Center. City officials are working on plans to add a pump track to the skate park, and are considering replacement of...

Super Search: Pt. 1

Sabin says he's made up his mind and wants to move to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Monty Sabin really wants to come work in Moses Lake. “I grew up in eastern Washington, and there's a number of things that draw me here,” Sabin said. “I wouldn't apply for this job if I didn't want to live here.” Among those things the current assistant superintendent of the North Thurston School District in Lacey, just east of Olympia...

Friends, fun and dried crickets: Moses Lake turns out for business expo

MOSES LAKE — It should be pretty obvious what Harvest Valley Pest Control does. “We kill bugs,” said Richard Westra as he sat with coworker Katrina Keithly at the company’s table at the St. Patrick’s Business Expo on Tuesday. “Bugs and rodents.” But that isn’t all they do with bugs...

Mitchell promoted to Tigers head football coach

EPHRATA - Ephrata School District is pleased to announce Patrick Mitchell has been named the new head coach of Ephrata High School’s varsity football program. “Coach Mitchell is a positive teacher and coach in our school,” said Ephrata High School Athletic Director Bryan Johnson. “He has been a strong defensive coordinator...

Praying for peace

Ukrainian couple from Soap Lake discusses the invasion of their homeland

SOAP LAKE - The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has impacted many people around the world. Right here in Grant County, there is a Slavic community with personal connections to what is happening in Europe. Ukrainian-born husband and wife Ruslan and Anna Moshniakov said...

Lauren Howard McVay

Lauren Howard McVay, 86, of Moses Lake passed away March 9 at Samaritan Hospital.

Don’t fly blind when it comes to bird nutrition

Picky eaters come in all shapes and sizes, and our avian friends are no exception. Despite birds’ tendency to favor some foods over others, creating a balanced diet is a crucial factor to pet bird ownership. Dr. Ashley Navarrette, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers guidance...

WA Republicans call out partisanship while Dems tout bipartisan successes

OLYMPIA - Wash. House and Senate Republicans are expressing frustration with a growing partisan legislature, which they say they witnessed during the recent state legislative session. Washington is a Democrat-majority state with Republicans often have a hard time standing in the way of Democrat-sponsored legislation. Republican legislators are complaining that Democrats excluded...

Legals for March, 17 2022

BBCC Women win national wrestling title

ALLEN, Texas — Big Bend Community College women’s wrestling team took first place at the National Collegiate Wrestling Association’s championship tournament. According to a press release from USA Wrestling, Big Bend took first in the women’s division during the annual championship tournament in Allen, Texas, with 115.5 points...

Adams Co. transportation improvement discussed

RITZVILLE — Improving public transportation in Adams County, and getting the word out about what is available, was the subject of a meeting called by QUADCO Regional Transportation Planning Organization to discuss transportation issues and needs Monday. Madelyn Carlson, chief executive officer for the People for People...

Dotson appointed to carry out Soap Lake superintendent duties

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake School Board voted Monday night in a special meeting to appoint Board President Curt Dotson to assume the duties of the Soap Lake superintendent position. The move was necessitated by the resignation of former Soap Lake School District Superintendent Sunshine Pray, who resigned last week. Under RCW 28A.330.200, a state law, “Whenever a district...

Othello athletes recognized for academic achievement

OTHELLO — The Othello High School dance and drill team was named Class 2A academic state champions, and four OHS boys wrestlers received Class 2A academic all-state honors....

Frances Alayne Everett Smith

January 9, 1930 - March 6, 2022 Frances Alayne Everett Smith, 92, of Moses Lake WA passed away on March 6, 2022, in her home at the Avamere assisted living facility after losing her battle with cnacer. Her son, Paul, and daughter-in-law, Chantel, were by her side throughout her courageous fight...

Three arrested near Warden

WARDEN — A Ritzville man and two Warden residents were booked into the Adams County Jail on outstanding warrants following an investigation into a theft near Lind. . .

Royal City man arrested for vehicle theft

RITZVILLE — A Royal City man was booked into the Adams County Jail for suspicion of possession of a stolen vehicle after he attempted to flee from Adams County Sheriff’s deputies. . .

Othello Council discusses open meetings tech

OTHELLO — Possible upgrades to the video and sound system in the Othello City Council chambers were the subject of discussion at the regular council meeting Monday, though no final decision was reached. . .

Othello wins both games of season-opening doubleheader

OTHELLO — The Othello High School girls softball team took both games of the team’s season-opening doubleheader Saturday in Othello, winning both games in five innings. . .

Earnest McCray, Jr.

September 17, 1935 – February 25, 2022 Earnest McCray, Jr. passed away on February 25, 2022, at 12:06 am. He was born on September 17, 1935, in Pensacola, FL...

Marsha Bright

July 23, 1946 – March 5, 2022 Marsha Bright 75, passed away peacefully in her sleep, Saturday March 5, 2022. Marsha was born July 23,1946 in Yakima WA.

Farrell C. Trask, Jr.

April 10, 1937 – February 19, 2022 On Saturday, February 19, 2022, Farrell C. Trask, Jr., of San Antonio, TX, passed on into God’s graces. After living with well-managed Parkinson’s for the last ten years of his life, we finally lost him at 84 years of age...

Legals for March, 16 2022

‘Go for it’

Moses Lake chooses new Distinguished Young Woman

MOSES LAKE - The 40th annual Moses Lake Distinguished Young Women program was held Saturday at Moses Lake High School to say goodbye to the 2022 court and welcome the incoming court for 2023. The new 2023 Moses Lake DYW court consists of...

Soap Lake SD superintendent resigns

SOAP LAKE - In a Statement from the Soap Lake School Board on March 11, the board announced that it has accepted Soap Lake School District Superintendent Sunshine Pray’s immediate resignation. Pray’s resignation comes amongst three...

As coronavirus mandates change, Quincy schools adjust

QUINCY — Students and staff are no longer required to wear masks indoors in Quincy schools as of Monday. Masks won’t be required on Quincy school buses moving forward either. Some protocols instituted to fight the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to be mandated by state authorities...

James Zickler

James Zickler passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 5, 2022. He was born on January 14, 1936 in Portland, Oregon, to Ben and Evelyn Zickler. The family eventually moved to Ellensburg, where Jim grew up and graduated from high school in 1954. He attended college briefly before serving in the Navy for two years. Jim then followed his parents and siblings to Moses Lake, where Ben had begun farming. There he met Barbara Hagen, the love of his life. They were married for over 61 years and had four children, Teresa, Paul, Pamela, and Patrick.

MLPD arrests CMMS student

Firearm with multiple clips found

MOSES LAKE — Officers with the Moses Lake Police Department on Monday morning arrested an eighth-grader in possession of a firearm at Chief Moses Middle School, according to MLPD Chief Kevin Fuhr.

Joyce Hottel

Joyce (Barnett) Hottell went to her final home with the Lord to join her beloved husband on March 2, 2022 at the age of 87. Joyce was born November 11, 1934 to Alfred and Ellen (Perkins) Barnett in Colchester, England.

Legals for March, 15 2022

A hard no

MLSD has ‘no choice’ but to change mascots, campus names

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has not asked the Business Council overseeing the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation to keep the name of Chief Moses Middle School and will find a new name for the campus as part of the process of finding new mascots for Moses Lake High School and the district’s two middle schools, according to School Board Member Shannon Hintz. Hintz, speaking to the Columbia Basin Herald after a regular meeting...

WA supplemental budget passes unanimously

Local projects funded with bipartisan support

OLYMPIA - The Washington state legislature unanimously passed its $1.5 billion supplemental capital budget on Wednesday with investments in housing and infrastructure across the state. Last year’s 2021-23 capital budget appropriated $6.3 billion toward construction and infrastructure projects statewide...

‘One last ride’

2 QHS ballers make school history

QUINCY - Seniors Aidan Heikes and TreyVaughn Bierlink have led the Jacks basketball team all season with their leadership and points. The duo is also lifelong friends and have made history this season by becoming only the 5th and 6th athletes to score 1,000 career points...

Airline to begin flights from Spokane to Burbank

SPOKANE — A Texas-based airline will begin offering nonstop flights from Spokane International Airport to Hollywood Burbank Airport in Southern California. The first flight of the new service...

Man airlifted after collision on SR 17

WARDEN — A man was airlifted to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane after he was injured in a three-car collision about two miles south of Warden Friday evening...

Moses Lake Gun Show offers shopping, networking opportunities

MOSES LAKE - The Northwest Gun Show was held at the Grant County Fairgrounds on March 12-13 and saw a vast array of vendors from all over the Pacific Northwest. Ron Warren, promoter for Northwest Gun Shows said...

Sky’s Coffee owner following family tradition

MATTAWA — For Sky’s Coffee owner Alisha Avalos, small business runs in the family.

Legals for March, 14 2022

Ephrata man arrested in connection with Wenatchee stabbing

WENATCHEE - Miguel Angel Lopez-Montes, Jr., 34, of Ephrata was arrested early on March 13 in connection with a stabbing in Wenatchee. A press release from the office of Douglas County Sheriff Kevin Morris stated that Lopez-Montez was arrested after a hang-up call to emergency dispatchers...

Construction to begin Monday at Pioneer and E. 5th

MOSES LAKE — Driving through Moses Lake is going to get a lot more interesting starting Monday as the city begins several weeks of sewer work at the intersection of Pioneer Way, Wheeler Road and Fifth Avenue. According to a posting on the city’s website, work crews will begin the first phase of work by rerouting traffic on Pioneer Drive on Monday, March 14, to replace a broken sewer line under Pioneer just north of the intersection near the city library. “That’s a necessary sewer repair,” said Mark Beaulieu, a city design engineer. Beaulieu said the sewer replacement work ...

Ephrata SD bus driver saves choking student, receives awards

EPHRATA — An Ephrata School District bus driver received two awards for her quick thinking and quick action that saved the life of an ESD student on March 3. According to a press release from the district, Patti Helaas received the district’s Excellence Award after performing the Heimlich Maneuver on a choking child. Helaas also received the Civilian Life Saving Award from the Ephrata Fire Department. Helaas was on her afternoon route...

WA legislature passes bill to prevent catalytic converter thefts

Upcoming law set to cut theft epidemic

OLYMPIA - The legislature is attempting to address skyrocketing catalytic converter thefts across the state with a bill passed by both chambers in the past week. “These items can go for over 200,000 miles,” Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview said, “catalytic converters, as we know demonstrated by the crime statistic, are not wearing out; they’re being stolen.” Catalytic converter theft is undoubtedly becoming a bigger issue, said Rep. Cindy Ryu, D-Shoreline. Legislators on both sides of the aisle have worked hard on crafting House Bill 1815 to protect private property...

Find your pot o' gold at the Moses Lake Business Expo

Tuesday event set to bring business leaders to fairgrounds

MOSES LAKE — You can “find your pot of gold” at this year’s Moses Lake Business Expo, organized by the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce. “The Moses Lake Business Expo is a great opportunity to have our local businesses feature their products and services,” said Chamber Executive Director Debbie Doran-Martinez. “I often hear...

Getting your pollinators on...

MOSES LAKE — Spring is coming. Time to plant bulbs, plan your garden, reseed your lawn if needed, get your lawnmower ready and check out your sprinklers to make sure they work.

Cello, vocal duo to perform in concert in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Tenor Branden James and cellist James Clark will perform in concert at 7 p.m. March 22 at the Moses Lake Alliance Church, 1100 North Grape Drive. The duo performs as Branden & James. The concert is sponsored by the Central Basin Community Concert Association. Typically CBCCA performances are...

MLSD names two superintendent finalists

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced late Wednesday its two finalists to fill the currently vacant superintendent position. According to an MLSD press release, the two finalists are Monty Sabin, the current assistant superintendent of operations at the North Thurston Public Schools in Lacey, and Jeffrey Hardesty, the current superintendent of the Oroville School District.

Legals for March, 11 2022

Man arrested and charged with murder in the disappearance of Moses Lake woman

MOSES LAKE — Police in Hermiston, Ore. have arrested a former Moses Lake resident in the disappearance of 30-year-old Yanira Cedillos of Moses Lake last week. At a press conference held at the Moses Lake Civic Center on Thursday, Moses Lake Police Department Capt. Mike Williams said Hermiston Police officers arrested Juan Gastelum, 27, a former Moses Lake resident, Wednesday evening. Gastelum has been charged with second-degree murder and rape...

YOU banquet raises money for youth hunting, fishing trips

MOSES LAKE — Cyrus Levine bagged his bear in record time. “It was the fastest (bear hunt) that they said they’ve done yet,” he said. Levine went hunting with the help of Youth Outdoors Unlimited, a Moses Lake-based organization that takes children and teens with physical challenges...

Celebrating a Century

MOSES LAKE — Edna Watkins and Ann Klobucher remember things like the Great Depression - Watkins was nine years of age, and Klobucher eight, at the time of the 1929 Wall Street crash that started it all. They were 21 and 20, respectively, when the attack on Pearl Harbor catapulted the U.S. into World War 11. Watkins celebrated her 102nd birthday March 3, and Klobucher her 101st birthday March 7. And for her birthday, Watkins got a motorcycle ride.

Kevin LaMont Lybbert

Kevin LaMont Lybbert, 44, of Leitchfield, passed away Friday, March 4, 2022 at Twin Lakes Hospital in Leitchfield, KY.

Frank Wilbur Jones

Frank Wilbur Jones December 6, 1931 - February 2, 2022 On February 2, 2022, at 90 years old, Frank Wilbur Jones, known more fondly by his friends and family as “Frankie,” was reunited in heaven with his one true love Edna Irene, while surrounded by his three children in Richland, Washington.

Maxine Marie Edmondson

Maxine Marie Edmondson February 22, 1934 – February 27, 2022 Maxine Marie Edmondson passed away Sunday, February 27, 2022. Maxine was born February 22, 1934 to David Chadwick and Lela McMillian Chadwick in Ontario, Oregon.

Legals for March, 10 2022

MLCA/CCS boys earn sixth at state

Lions working to become ‘powerhouse’

SPOKANE - The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School boys basketball team earned a sixth-place trophy at the state competition in Spokane over the weekend. “I made sure to tell them, we're not just going to state, we're going to state to do something. We're going to state to open some eyes and we're going to state to bring home some hardware...

City of Moses Lake seeks to keep middle school name

Irrigation study agreement approved

MOSES LAKE — In a meeting with members of the Business Council overseeing the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, a delegation from Moses Lake has asked to keep the name of Chief Moses Middle School, according to Moses Lake Mayor Dean Hankins. Hankins, speaking at a regular meeting of the Moses Lake City Council...

Jones not seeking fourth term as Grant County sheriff

EPHRATA — Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones announced on Tuesday that he will not seek re-election to a fourth term. “It was just a joint decision with my family,” Jones said. “I’ve been in the business for 30 years, and I think I’ve done...

State legislature passes high-capacity magazine ban

OLYMPIA - Gun owners will no longer be able to purchase magazines with capacities greater than ten rounds under legislation passed by the House on Friday if it is signed into law by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. Senate Bill 5078 establishes new firearm restrictions that authors say support public safety. Once enacted...

Othello moves to acquire PJ Taggares Park

OTHELLO — The city of Othello will start negotiations to take over ownership of PJ Taggares Park, and is taking over park maintenance this spring. Othello City Council members voted to approve an interlocal agreement with Adams County Parks and Recreation District 1, the current park owners, at the Feb. 28 council meeting. Parks and rec commissioners had previously approved the agreement...

Othello High School wrestlers named All-Conference

OTHELLO — Four Othello High School girls wrestlers were named to the Central Washington Athletic Conference all-conference team, and two OHS boys wrestlers took first team CWAC honors. The 2021-22 wrestling all-conference teams were announced last week. The Othello boys wrestlers were...

Coronado named CWAC girls basketball coach of year

OTHELLO — Othello High School girls basketball coach Adolfo Coronado was named Central Washington Athletic Conference coach of the year and OHS junior Annalee Coronado was named to the CWAC all-conference team. The all-conference basketball teams were announced last week. Coronado led the Huskies to a third-place finish...

Stella & Me

Family business offers one-stop fashion options

MOSES LAKE — The boutique Stella & Me is the realization of a longtime dream. Owner Mary Davenport’s mom Tami owns a boutique in Tri-Cities, where Davenport grew up. “Small business has always been in our family,” Davenport said...

Home is where the heart is: Creating a cat-friendly environment

Home is all about having a space to make your own. As humans, we all need a space where we are comfortable enough in our own skin to relax. And, believe it or not, our feline friends have similar needs. Creating an environment where pets are free to roam and be themselves has been directly linked to...

Seeing the bigger picture

How cataracts affect pets

Just as humans may develop vision loss or impairments, our animal friends also can experience issues such as cataracts as they age. The term cataract refers to an opacity of the lens within the eye, causing both discomfort and loss of vision. While all species are susceptible to developing...

Moses Lake seeks input on amended comprehensive plan

MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake is seeking comments and suggested amendments to the city’s proposed changes to the comprehensive plan, according to a notice sent out by city spokesperson Lynne Lynch. “The city will accept suggested...

Lonestar to headline 2022 Grant County Fair

Other musical acts announced

MOSES LAKE — The veteran country group Lonestar will take to the stage Aug. 18 at the Grant County Fairgrounds. Lonestar is one of the headliners for the 2022 Grant County Fair. Admission to the concert will be included in the $10 daily fair admission, but a limited amount of VIP seating will be available also. Tickets for the VIP seating go on sale March 11. Lonestar is well-known to country music fans...

Washington Redistricting Commission chair resigns

OLYMPIA — Sara Augustine, chair of the Washington State Redistricting Commission, resigned from her position Monday after the commission failed to vote to intervene in a lawsuit to defend its own legislative maps. “By failing to defend the redistricting plans agreed to by consensus, state authorities have...

Legals for March, 9 2022

Soap Lake shows solidarity with Slavic community

SOAP LAKE - On March 6, members of the Soap Lake community came together to hold a candlelight vigil to support the Slavic community and heritage that has been a large part of Soap Lake. The gathering was prompted by Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine which has seen the deaths of hundreds of civilians. Several dozen people showed up to the vigil that was held at East Beach Park on Sunday. The vigil included candles, a donation jar...

Othello Sandhill Crane Festival back in action

Tours, hikes, lectures and birds take the stage

OTHELLO — After two years of self-guided tours, the Othello Sandhill Crane Festival is back in-person for 2022. The festival is scheduled for March 25 through 27. “It feels good to come back and have a presence again,” festival committee member Chris Braunwart said. There will be some changes for 2022, including new venues

Heikes hits 1,000 for Jacks

YAKIMA/QUINCY - Quincy High School senior Aidan Heikes scored his 1,000th career point in the state game against Lynden Christian on March 3 at the Yakima Valley SunDome. Heikes scored 160 points as a...

Police reform bill restores options to law enforcement

OLYMPIA - Law enforcement will soon have the authority to use force when detaining individuals and in other situations under legislation passed by the House on Friday. Kevin Fuhr, Moses Lake Police Chief, said last year’s reforms intended to address excessive force instead caused...

Potato and onion trucks collide near Othello

OTHELLO — An Othello man was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake following an accident early Monday near the intersection of S.R. 26 and Beverly Burke Road west of Royal City, according to the Washington State Patrol. In a statement, the WSP said Victor Garza, 70, of Othello...

SLPD recovers stolen vehicle

SOAP LAKE - Over the weekend, two Soap Lake Police Officers recovered a stolen vehicle out of Grand Coulee, while on patrol. In a social media post, the department states that on March 5, officers Trevor Jones and Justin Rowland were on patrol for the city. At approximately 8:20 a.m., Jones was checking...

4 injured in accident north of Othello

One cited for excessive speed

OTHELLO — Four people were injured in a three-car accident at the intersection of S.R.17 and Hermann Road late Sunday that left the main road between Othello and Moses Lake blocked for more than an hour, according to the Washington State Patrol. According to the report...

ACH takes second at state tournament

Warriors end season with 20 wins

SPOKANE - The Almira/Coulee-Hartline boys basketball team took second place in the WIAA boys 1B state tournament at the Spokane Arena. “The name on our jersey, Warrior, that's what we are. We’re warriors and warriors lose in battle. It just happens. But there'll be a new group, there will be a new batch, there'll be a new group of Warriors. And we will reload and we will do everything we can to get right back here so we can compete,” said ACH head coach Graham Grindy. ACH played their first opponent...

Legals for March, 8 2022

Basin hoopsters participate in state tourney

COLUMBIA BASIN - Over the weekend, five Columbia Basin teams participated in the state basketball tournament. Here’s how they matched up: Warden High School Lady Cougars played all four days of the state tournament after losing their first game of the season in the regional matchup to Liberty (Spangle) 60-62. Warden first played Wahkiakum and won 55-40. The next day, March 3, they then also beat La Conner 61-48. Their third game of the week was against Okanogan where they took victory, 68-48. And finally the Lady Cougars beat Colfax 70-55 in the championship game. Warden brings home the championship trophy with an overall season record of 26-1. They also hold their league and district titles this year. Almira/Coulee-Hartline boys were also automatically seeded to day two and took on Lummi Nation. ACH won 52-44. Next, the Warriors took on Northwest Yeshiva on March 4, also taking victory 52-43. Finally, they played Cusick in the championship round where they Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School boys were automatically seeded to day two of the state tournament, March 3. That day they took on Sunnyside Christian where they lost 36-39. March 4, they beat DeSales 55-41. The victory over DeSales ensured a spot to a game on Saturday, March 5 for the MLCA/CCS team to play for 4th or 6th place against Lummi Nation. They lost, taking 6th. Their overall record was 23-4 this season and they held the league and district titles. Quincy High School boys played their first state game against Blaine on March 2. They won 69-51. They went on to play Lynden Christian on March 3 and lost 44-67. On March 4, Quincy fell to Freeman 82-72, ending their state run without a placing. They were 21-6 this season and snatched the league and district title from Chelan. They also saw two athletes break the 1,000 career points achievement; seniors TreyVaughn Bierlink and Aidan Heikes. Moses Lake High School girls played Emerald Ridge at the Tacoma Dome on March 2. They lost 34-44, ending their run. This season, they had an overall record of 14-10, took second in their league and were district champions.

Lady Cougars take championship!

Season closes with gold ball coming to WHS

SPOKANE - The Warden High School Lady Cougars played all four days of the 1B state tournament at the Spokane Arena and ended their state run by bringing home the state title. “The girls, they’re just so tough. They just keep battling and every time they reach a goal, we just set the bar higher and they respond,” said lady Cougars’ head coach Josh Madsen...

Twitter shuts down fake ML city account

MOSES LAKE — Social media platform Twitter has shut down a fake account pretending to be the City of Moses Lake. According to Lynne Lynch, a spokesperson for the city, Moses Lake officials asked Twitter to shut the account down after a member of the city council brought it to their attention early last week. In an email to the Columbia Basin Herald, Lynch said...

Polishing up on animal nail care

Tips for maintaining pet claw health

While getting a manicure or pedicure is often seen as a luxury for people, proper nail care is a necessity for dogs and cats. Regular nail maintenance in companion animals is important for a multitude of reasons, including your pet’s overall health. If a pet’s nails become overgrown, everyday activities such as walking...

Love & Lumber expands to new location

Local boutique aims to be hospitable

MOSES LAKE — Walking into Love & Lumber in downtown Moses Lake is a bit like walking back in time to 1975. Everything is in earth tones, subdued shades of brown, burnt umber, ripe-wheat gold and olive, with some macrame hanging on the wall and an undefinable but heady and intoxicating scent — a melange of loose-leaf tea, candles, soap and simple hominess — wafts through the air amidst the clothes and toiletries on sale. There’s even a prom dress of bark, leaves and flowers on display, made by Rebecca Sterner of Rue and Sage. It oddly seems appropriate, even perfect, for the space...

March, April state park free days announced

OLYMPIA — Washington residents can park for free in state parks on three days this spring, with the first one being Wednesday. The Discover Pass won’t be required on...

Legals for March, 7 2022

Lady Cougars: State champs!

SPOKANE - The Warden High School Lady Cougars finished the business they had at the state tournament this weekend with a state championship trophy. After three long days at the Spokane Arena, the Lady Cougars were finally in the championship game. Warden would battle Colfax for the glory of being named the WIAA 2B girls state champions and win 70-55. “We’ve been on a mission this whole season and the girls followed through with what we said we wanted to do,’” said Warden head coach Josh Madsen. “We never shied away from it, we never backed down, we said we wanted a state title, we wanted a gold ball, we went and got it.”

State basketball tournament updates

SPOKANE- At the end of day three of the state tournament, three local teams push on to Saturday, two going for the state title. Five total Columbia Basin

Warden beats La Conner at state tournament

Lady Cougars move on to day three of event

SPOKANE - The Warden High School girls basketball team took a victory over La Conner Thursday during the State 2B basketball tournament, 61-48. “The girls just dug in and it was a huge team win. And we had a good game plan and more importantly, the girls executed it,” Warden head coach Josh Madsen said...

Housing market remains tight in Columbia Basin

Generational shopping a ‘boon’ for buyers, sellers

COLUMBIA BASIN — Real estate professionals seem to be pretty well agreed on what home buyers are looking for in today’s market. “Really, they’re looking for a lot of everything, honestly,” said Tara Zerbo, an agent with Gary Mann Realty in Moses Lake. “There’s kind of a desperation,” said Brian Gentry, of Re/Max in Othello. “People are almost looking for anything. There’s so few homes...

Open and concealed carry restriction likely to expand

OLYMPIA - The Washington State Legislature has passed a bill to restrict gun owners from practicing open-carry and possession in certain settings after a Senate vote Tuesday. Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, said House Bill 1630 steps on the constitutional rights of Washingtonians. The Democratic-majority legislature is slowly dismantling the 2nd amendment, leaving gun owners with fewer protections. "Look at what's going on in Ukraine," Dent...

EPA says fewer chemical releases in PNW

Local plants among releases

OLYMPIA — Fewer toxic chemicals were released into the environment in the Pacific Northwest over the last few years, according to an announcement by the Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday. In a press release, the EPA said total releases of chemicals in EPA Region 10 — which includes Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington — on the agency’s toxic release inventory...

USDA accepting marketing grant applications

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for a new round of grants designed to help local farmers market their produce. According to a USDA press release, congress has approved $97 million in funding for the Local Agricultural Market Program to help food producers at the local and regional levels sell their produce primarily to local ins...

Lind Artist reinvents the wheels…

LIND — Tom Strohmaier never set out to be an artist. “My father-in-law used to restore buggies, horse-drawn buggies, sleighs and wagons,” Strohmaier said. “And when he died in 2014, he left me this huge pile of (stuff)” The retired farmer pauses as he stands over a pile of rusting cast-iron and steel parts — springs, spindles, axles — sitting behind his home in Lind...

Law enforcement reports for the week of Feb. 28

Ephrata Police Department Feb. 18 Report of theft from a business in the 200 block of Basin Street Southwest. Feb. 19 Report of attempted theft of alcohol from a business in the 1100 block of Basin Street Southwest. Feb. 20 Report of a vehicle prowl on Basin Street Southwest. Report of a vehicle prowl on F Street Northeast...

Roy J. (Buck) Wheat Jr.

Roy J. (Buck) Wheat Jr., at the age of 94, peacefully took off from this life and flew his last flight to the big airfield and hangar in heaven on Feb. 25 at home in Moses Lake, Washington.

Mary Guzman

Mary was born in Denver, Colorado in 1932 to Joe and Barbarita Barrios. In the mid-1940s, as a family, they migrated to Toppenish, Washington.

Legals for March, 4 2022

MLCA/CCS boys fall to Sunnyside Christian

4th or 6th place still a possibility

SPOKANE - The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School boys basketball team fell to Sunnyside Christian at the state tournament on March 3. “We want to play on Saturday,” said Ferguson. “So we got to take care of business tomorrow. And so that's the goal.” MLCA/CCS will play March 4 at 10:30 a.m. ...

ACH takes Lummi Nation at state tourney

SPOKANE - The Almira/Coulee-Hartline boys basketball team took on their first opponent in the state tournament Thursday at the Spokane Arena. ACH was ranked No. 1 going into the tournament, and won their regional game against DeSales, automatically sending them to the second day of the tournament. Day two, March 3, they took on No. 7 Lummi Nation. Lummi Nation got the possession from the tip-off and first...

Outdoor school could bridge COVID-19 learning gaps

OLYMPIA — Middle school-age students may have more learning opportunities outside of the classroom under legislation considered by the Senate on Monday. Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, said the proposed Outdoor School for All program is a reinvestment in the community. District 13 is chock-full of agricultural communities that could benefit...

Moses Lake developers appeal comprehensive plan

MOSES LAKE — A group of property owners and real estate developers, led by ASPI Group, is asking a state board to reconsider revisions to the city’s comprehensive plan that include withdrawing hundreds of acres of land from the Moses Lake Urban Growth Area. Kim Foster, an attorney in Gig Harbor who represents ASPI Group, said...

Quincy High School drama club to present ‘High School Musical’

QUINCY — The story of a star-crossed romance and its effect on East High School comes to the Quincy High School stage for two weekends starting Friday.

Infant formula recall expanded

OLYMPIA — Illinois-based Abbott Nutrition has expanded its recall of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formulas because of possible bacterial contamination.

Bryan Eugene Vance

On Tuesday, Feb. 8, Bryan Eugene Vance went home to the loving arms of Jesus.

Linda Rae Peterson Gustaveson

Linda had a wonderful, diverse life. She was born in Spokane Washington but resided in a number of states, including Utah, Oregon, Michigan and Washington (most notably Vashon Island and Soap Lake).

Spokane counselor agrees to $138,000 Medicaid settlement

SPOKANE — A news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office on Feb. 25 states that a Spokane mental health counselor has agreed to pay $138,984 to resolve allegations that he and his company fraudulently billed Washington State Medicaid, also known as Apple Health.

Softball league now registering for 2022

The Columbia Basin Girls Softball Association has announced they will move forward with a traditional season for 2022. Registration is open now and will close March 12, according to a press release from CBGSA Board President Tiffany Vehrs. Player registration...

LaFaun Johnson

LaFaun Johnson (Lettie LaFaun Nelson Taylor Johnson) passed peacefully into her Father in Heaven’s arms Monday morning Feb. 28, 2022.

Washington announces new scratch-off lottery games

OLYMPIA — If you like to win money, Washington’s Lottery has a few new games for you. On Wednesday, the lottery announced the debut of its $25 Million Cash Blowout, a new scratch-off game that will offer only $100 and $500 prizes. Each ticket will cost $30, and players will scratch off cash icons in the search for a money roll symbol. In addition to the new game...

Legals for March, 3 2022

Jacks win first state game

YAKIMA — After some first-half jitters, the Quincy Jacks scored a convincing 69-51 win over the Blaine Borderites in the first game at the 1A Hardwood Classic state basketball tournament Wednesday. Quincy trailed 33...

MLHS girls fall to Emerald Ridge in state tournament

TACOMA — The Moses Lake High School girls basketball team took on its first matchup of the WIAA 4A state tournament on Wednesday morning against Emerald Ridge at the Tacoma Dome. Moses Lake lost 34-44. Going into the game...

Grant County Republicans gather

MOSES LAKE — For Caleb Heimlich, the issue is simple. “There’s not a single area of life where we’re better off today than two years ago,” the chair of the Washington State Republican Party said.

MLSD looking for help to pick new MLHS mascot

MOSES LAKE — With the Moses Lake School District now needing to find new mascots for its high school and two middle schools, and a new name for one middle school, the district is looking for committee volunteers to help.

State legislation could provide low-interest student loans

OLYMPIA — High-interest loans may no longer deter low-income families seeking higher education under legislation considered by the Senate Ways & Means Committee on Monday.

FEMA swears in new administrator

BOTHELL — The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced on Feb. 28 that Region 10, which includes Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Alaska, swore in a new regional administrator.

Moses Lake looks forward to first state game

The Moses Lake High School girls basketball team will be playing in their first game of the state tournament on March 2 at the Tacoma Dome.

Skating for sport

The Columbia Basin Roller Derby team is getting back into action with the start of a new season, and encouraging people to try the sport.

Community members honored at Othello Chamber banquet

OTHELLO — Othello area residents gathered Friday for the Othello Chamber of Commerce’s banquet where several people were recognized for their contributions to the community. “It was a good turnout. A really good turnout,” 2022 Chamber president Mat Garza said. “It exceeded my expectations.”

Visions in white: Enchanting Bridal Show prepares for post-COVID wedding season

MOSES LAKE — The snow wasn’t quite melted outside, but in the Commercial Building at the Grant County Fairgrounds Saturday, it was a bright spring day, perfect for a wedding.

Commissioners seek Horticultural Pest and Disease Board volunteer

EPHRATA — The Grant County Commission is looking for an interested volunteer to serve on the county’s Horticultural Pest and Disease Board.

Property tax statements mailed

EPHRATA — Property owners in Grant County will soon open their mailboxes to find their 2022 property tax statements if they haven’t already arrived.

Births for March 2, 2022

Samaritan and Othello Community hospitals

Ernest McCray Jr.

Ernest McCray Jr., 84, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away Feb. 25, 2022.

Legals for March, 2 2022

City begins review of shoreline plan

MOSES LAKE — With the Moses Lake Planning Commission beginning to review its shoreline management plan, one of the first steps involves updating the city’s shoreline map.

Inslee to end mask mandate on March 12

Gov. Jay Inslee announced on Monday that Washington’s indoor mask mandate would end on March 12 rather than March 21, as previously announced. Washingtonians will be able to go about regular business; no longer being required to mask in schools, childcare facilities, libraries, restaurants and bars, houses of worship, Gyms, recre...

Adams County unemployment rate drops in December

OTHELLO — Recovery in Adams County’s food processing sector and expansion of its health services industry contributed to a substantial drop in the county’s unemployment rate between December 2020 and December 2021. The December 2021 unemployment rate of 5.5% was a substantial improvement from December 2019 too. The unemployment rate in December 2020...

Two MLHS athletes sign to colleges

MOSES LAKE — Two seniors at Moses Lake High School signed with colleges across the country this past week to pursue their respective sports. The first athlete was Laurel Knox. She signed to swim with the University of Jamestown, which is a private university located in Jamestown, North Dakota. “I'm most excited about establishing myself outside of my current swim team. I'm really grateful for my swim team...

Quincy student makes dean’s list

ROCHESTER, N.Y — Bailey Kehl of Quincy was named to the Dean's List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the fall 2021 semester.

Hernandez only Warden wrestler to place at state

TACOMA — At the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Mat Classic XXXIII this year, Warden High School sophomore Jada Hernandez was the only Warden wrestler to place out of the three that went to the state tournament. Hernandez was also the only wrestler from Warden to represent the girls team at the state competition. She wrestled in the 115-pound weight classification...

Wash. tax revenues to be used to battle housing crisis

OLYMPIA — Rural counties could soon use local tax revenue to address the affordable housing crisis under legislation considered by a House committee on Thursday. Senate Bill 5868 would expand the use of public facilities sales and use taxes in rural counties to provide more affordable workforce housing options. Currently, counties can use the tax revenue to fund infrastructure projects in multiple sectors, including energy and transportation...

In memoriam: MLHS student honored with memorial nursing scholarship

MOSES LAKE — Fabrizio Delgado worked all his life to help people.

ACH overcomes DeSales in regional game

EAST WENATCHEE — While the Almira/Coulee-Hartline boys basketball team had already punched their ticket to the state tournament, they still had to face their regional tournament matchup for seeding at the state competition.