Ellington

WA may make it easier to build backyard cottages in a bid to ease the housing crisis

OLYMPIA — More backyard cottages could soon pop up across Washington. So-called accessory dwelling units, often referred to as in-law suites, provide independent living on the same lot as another housing unit, such as a single-family home. They can be attached to another building or detached...

O’ the stories you’ll read!

Read Across America comes to Warden Elementary School

WARDEN — For Read Across America Week, Warden Police Chief Rick Martin stood in the office of Warden Elementary School sorting through a stack of Dr. Seuss books. “‘Hop on Pop,’” he said. “That’s a classic.” ...

Soap Lake schedules condo hearing

SOAP LAKE - The City of Soap Lake will be holding a public meeting on Friday to consider an application for a condominium development.

Three WA airports receive federal grants

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A joint release by U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) on Tuesday stated that three Washington State airports will receive grants from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminal Program to support infrastructure upgrades and modernization projects...

Columbia Basin senior calendar for March 2023

Calendar for senior citizens in the Columbia Basin.

Irrigation district election bill passes WA Senate

OLYMPIA – On Monday the Washington Senate passed a bill permitting mail-in ballots for irrigation-district elections...

Home & Garden Show comes to fairgrounds Saturday

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds will host the Columbia Basin Home & Garden Show this weekend, according to the fairgrounds’ website. The show will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and will feature more than 50 businesses. It’s sponsored by Seed Cupboard Nursery in Royal City, according to the nursery’s website. Admission is free. More information can be found by calling 509-989-0428.

Moses Lake Wrestling Club hits the mat in Tacoma

Place twelfth in 106-team tourney

TACOMA – Just after the Mat Classic ended for high school wrestlers, youth wrestlers from the Moses Lake Wrestling Club traveled to the Tacoma Dome to compete in a state tournament...

March 2023 events calendar

March 3 First Friday Jam Anyone with an instrument can come and play; anyone with ears can come and listen. Potluck at 6 p.m., jam 7-9 p.m. at George Community Hall, 403 W. Montmorency Blvd. Info: www.georgecommunityhall.com. Preschool story time Kids will read books, do finger plays and action rhymes, sing songs, and explore with other activities.10:30-11 a.m. every Friday at the Warden Library, 305 S Main Ave. Info: 509-349-2226. Family Free Saturday Get creative and make a card for someone that you love. Continues until supplies have been exhausted. Adults must accompany children during activity (no drop-offs).12-2 p.m. at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, 401 S. Balsam. Info: 509-764-3830. March 7

EDITORIAL: Straightforward about 'Dilbert'

You may notice that the comic strip “Dilbert” is missing from the paper. After recent events associated with the comic strip’s artist and writer, Scott Adams, and commentary on his YouTube channel, the Herald is choosing not to do business with him any longer. Last week, Adams took to his video channel and went on a rant, inspired by poll results from Rasmussen Reports...

Central Washington on display

Moses Lake Museum exhibit shows the best of our region

MOSES LAKE — Central Washington, in all its beauty, is on display at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. The exhibition titled simply “Life in Central Washington” features the work of Yakima Valley Arts Association members. The show opened on Feb. 3 and runs until March 17. “All the pieces in the show are pretty much inspired by our landscape,” said Dollie Boyd, director of the museum. “The work that we do here, the agriculture, the plants, the flora, the fauna.”

Coaches round up Mat Classic results, praise wrestlers

COLUMBIA BASIN – Of the 64 wrestlers from the Columbia Basin who qualified to wrestle at the 2023 Mat Classic, 33 ended up placing under the bright lights of the Tacoma Dome...

Couleegan’s Bar & Grill

Local pub offers entertainment, food and drink in Coulee City

COULEE CITY – At the West end of Main Street in Coulee City is Couleegan’s Bar and Grill; a place where everyone is welcome and everyone leaves with a smile.

Warnick’s dental school bill passes Senate

OLYMPIA – Senate Bill 5113 was unanimously approved by the Senate on Wednesday, allowing accredited dental schools to request temporary licensure for faculty who have accepted employment at the respective school...

Twins arrested in catalytic converter theft

MOSES LAKE — A pair of twin brothers are in the Grant County Jail after being spotted stealing a catalytic converter, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department. Nicholas Andrew Anardi and Trevor Mason Anardi, both 32, of Moses Lake were arrested Sunday afternoon on charges of second-degree malicious mischief and second-degree theft, according to the post...

WA Senate resolution to support Ukraine adopted

OLYMPIA – Friday the Washington State Senate adopted a resolution to show recognition and support for Ukrainian and Ukrainian Americans. “A year ago I spoke about how inspiring it was to see the Ukrainian nation stand up against a much larger enemy, nearly a David and Goliath situation, that's as true today as it was then,” said Senator John Braun (R-Centralia). “They’ve held the line and they’ve pushed back; I think we can all be inspired by this.” ...

GCFD7 hires new chief

SOAP LAKE – Grant County Fire District 7 has announced the hiring of a new chief, nearly six months after previous Chief Kirk Sheppard retired in September. “Chief Chris Baker started on Feb. 13 and has hit the ground running,” a release by the district stated...

Local Civil Air Patrol squad takes second at state

EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol placed second at the state competition over the weekend and will move on to regionals. “They have basically had to train themselves,” said Lt. Col. Kathy Maxwell, Cadet Program Activities Officer...

Author to speak at CWU

ELLENSBURG — Author and environmentalist Taylor Brorby will visit Central Washington University on March 5, according to a statement from the university...

Alumni Association tops $230,000 in scholarships

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Alumni Association has awarded more than $231,000 in scholarships in its 16-year history, according to a statement from the association, and is accepting applications for 2023.

Warden girls take state tournament first-round win

ELLENSBURG — The Warden Cougars used defense to take their opening round game in the Class 2B girls WIAA state basketball tournament with a 61-45 win over the Adna High School Pirates Saturday at Ellensburg High School. Warden is the defending state champion in Class 2B. Warden trailed briefly early in the game, but had a 15-9 lead at the end of the first quarter and never trailed the rest of the game. Cougars Coach Josh Madsen said it was a good way to start the state tournament...

MLCA/CCS girls fall in OT to Colton

Lions to face Odessa on Wednesday in round of 12

CHENEY – After a late push to come back and send the game into overtime, the No. 6 seed MLCA/CCS girls fell 61-58 to No. 3 Colton in the regional round of the 1B Girls State Basketball Tournament. The Lions found themselves in foul trouble late in the fourth quarter and in overtime, which the Wildcats used to their advantage to score the first six points of the overtime period...

Margaret Verna Sala

Margaret Verna Sala, 90, passed away Feb. 21, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Sarah Alvina Miller

Sarah Alvina Miller, known as Alvina to all, passed away peacefully to join our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Feb. 15, 2023. Her family visited her in her final days and were able to express their love and say their goodbyes. Alvina was born in Bayard, Nebraska to David and Anna Brening. Her parents were both immigrants of German descent. She was the seventh of 11 children in her family. Alvina knew the Lord from a very early age. Her early life was busy playing with her siblings, helping at home and attending school. Her dad worked at a sugar beet factory in Bayard and her mom was a busy homemaker. She left school during her high school years to help her mother and her family after her father died unexpectedly. She worked as a clerk during her early adult years in Bayard to supplement the family income. It was with great joy that she welcomed her daughter Debbie into her life in 1955. They shared many happy times living with her mom, sister Anne and brother Dave.

Find the right approach to feline socialization

Whether they are a purring housecat or a prowling neighborhood cat, felines react differently to new experiences depending on how they were socialized. Owners can choose to increase their cat’s comfort level in new experiences but should first consider different socialization strategies...

Good tabs

Moses Lake women collect pop tabs to support Ronald McDonald House charities

MOSES LAKE — Rebecca Camden said the donation for Spokane’s Ronald McDonald House started with a contest at an out-of-state car show. “We were at a car show in Oregon seven years ago, and the hosting club did a competition to see who could collect the most pop tabs,” Camden said...

Mandatory recess for grade schoolers approved despite objections

OLYMPIA — Elementary schools will be required to give students 30 minutes of recess every day and teachers would be prohibited from denying recess as a disciplinary measure under a bill that passed the state Senate last week despite objections. The bill, ESSB 5257, was sponsored by Sen. T’wina Nobles, D-Fircrest, and passed with a vote of 28-21.

Weather for Monday, Feb. 27

Monday: A chance of snow before 4 p.m., then a slight chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Southeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch is possible. Monday night, a slight chance of rain and snow before 7 p.m., then a slight chance of snow between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 24. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37. Tuesday night should be mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 38, while Wednesday night should be mostly cloudy, with a low around 28. Thursday: A slight chance of rain and snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Thursday Night is expected to be partly cloudy, with a low around 27. Friday: Sunny, with a high near 43. Source: National Weather Service

ML School District to sponsor community forum to review strategic plan

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School District patrons, staff and students will be invited to review a draft of the district’s new strategic plan. The date of the community forum will be announced. District superintendent Monty Sabin said during Thursday’s meeting of the Moses Lake School Board that the project has attracted a lot of interest.

State Senate approves safety measures for road workers

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Senate last Thursday approved a pair of bills requiring the installation of automated vehicle speed cameras and other measures to improve highway safety. “Speed kills. Our work zones have lower posted speeds for very good reasons. This helps to prevent collisions with slower-moving work vehicles and helps to protect workers who are often outside of their vehicles,” said Mark McKechnie, from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, testifying in support of one of the measures.

Legals for February, 27 2023

Broncos use defense to advance to down Dayton-Waitsburg

CHENEY – Back in the 2B boys state tournament for the first time since 2016, the No. 9 seed Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos used strong defensive play in the second half to defeat No. 16 Dayton-Waitsburg 53-35 on Saturday afternoon. “I thought it would be a grind-it-out game,” LRS Head Coach Dustan Arlt said. “They swarmed Chase (Galbreath) down low. The nerves – we didn’t shoot very well. We missed a lot of shots, fortunately so did (Dayton-Waitsburg) that first half.”

Tow truck operator safety bill passes Senate chamber

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Senate on Wednesday approved a measure designed to improve safety for tow-truck operators. “Passage of this bill in the Senate today sends a strong message that safety on our roadways is a priority for Olympia, and that we need to respect the ‘everyday heroes’ who work within inches of speeding traffic,” said Senator Jeff Wilson (R-Longview), primary sponsor of the bill. “These first responders risk their lives every day.”

Confluence Health announces update to vaccination policy

WENATCHEE — Confluence Health employees who had been prohibited from working onsite if they had not received the initial COVID-19 vaccination for religious or medical reasons will be allowed back onsite, beginning March 1. Employees will have to meet certain requirements, according to a Confluence Health press release. The organization has clinics in Moses Lake, Royal City and Ephrata.

Economic development, rail in the Columbia Basin and the Mat Classic on the Studio Basin Podcast

On this episode of the Studio Basin podcast, senior reporter Charles Featherstone sits down with Pat Boss, the director of government affairs and public relations at Columbia Basin Railroad, to discuss economic development and more with the Columbia Basin Railroad. Next, sports reporter Ian Bivona and managing editor Rob Miller talk about the Mat Classic and Boys State Swimming and Diving Championships hosted last weekend, and preview the upcoming boys and girls basketball regional matchups. The Studio Basin podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3Y2vg2p.

Manta Ray Aquatic swimmers shine in conference championships

MOSES LAKE – Three Manta Ray Aquatics swimmers recently competed in college conference championship events, with Laurel Knox, Cole Lindberg and Zachary Washburn all competing for their respective schools.

Huskies move on to Yakima with 45-39 win over Mark Morris

ELLENSBURG – Down by three points entering the fourth quarter, Othello senior Annalee Coronado scored nine of her team-high 19 points in the fourth quarter to take down No. 15 seed Mark Morris 45-39 in the regional round of the 2A State Girls Basketball Tournament. The win sent the No. 10 seed Huskies to the state tournament at the Yakima Valley SunDome on Wednesday.

Working on recreation

New Moses Lake Parks and Rec director off to a fast start

MOSES LAKE — It was horse riding that brought Doug Coutts to Moses Lake. Or rather, it was his wife Janine’s love of horses that brought them here. “My wife is a barrel racer, so we came to the Grant County Fairgrounds a lot in the summer,” Coutts said as he sat in his corner office in the City of Moses Lake’s new Larson Recreation Center. Horses aren’t really the same passion for him as for her though...

Cougars head back to state

A year after winning it all, Warden heads back to 2B girls tourney looking for another trophy.

WARDEN – The 2022 champion Warden Cougars are heading back to the 2B Girls State Basketball Tournament, entering this year’s state bracket with an 18-4 record and an Eastern Washington Athletic Conference Title. “They’re excited to be there again, and understand this is a really cool opportunity for them,” Warden Head Coach Josh Madsen said. “I also think they’ve got some confidence about them as well. They’ve been playing pretty well and deserve to be there, and are looking forward to seeing what they can do once they get there.” ...

Making an impact

Realtors Association Affiliate of the Year loves to help people

MOSES LAKE — Ami Satterfield loves what her work at Frontier Title and Escrow can do for people. “In everything I've done, I always want to help people, and make an impact. And what a huge impact (for) a person buying a home, saving up forever, or a first-time home buyer or an investor that's able to expand their rental income. So that's kind of what interested me, being able to be part of something like that,” Satterfield said. Apparently, others have noticed that about Satterfield, because she was named Affiliate of the Year at the Moses Lake-Othello Realtors Association banquet in January. She’s not sure who nominated her, but she does have the slip attached to the award plaque to tell her why.

Legals for February, 24 2023

Cannabis pre-employment testing bill passes Senate

OLYMPIA – Senate Bill 5123 passed the Senate Wednesday and would ban pre-employment cannabis tests if signed into law. “It comes down to discriminating against people who use cannabis,” said Senator Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines), sponsor of the bill and chair of the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee. “For people using a legal substance, having a pre-employment test like this is just plain unfair, and we should stop it.” ...

REC on track for 2023 restart, posts loss for Q4 2022

MOSES LAKE — REC Silicon CEO Kurt Levens said the company’s Moses Lake facility is still on track to resume production in the second half of 2023 and that the company has reached an agreement with South Korea-based Hanwha Solution to provide the company with silicon gas - silane - for the next generation of rechargeable batteries...

Work zone cameras bill passes WA Senate

OLYMPIA – A bill to authorize the use of speed safety cameras in state highway work zones passed the Washington Senate Wednesday. “Folks working on our state highways deserve to do so with the peace of mind that they will end their shift by going home to their families and loved ones,” said Senator Marko Liias (D-Everett), sponsor of the bill. “These workers are acting every day to ensure our highways are safe for commuters, and we have a duty to keep them safe as well.” ...

Test for paraeducators needs reform, educators say

OLYMPIA - A national test given to people who want to be paraeducators in public schools often slows the process and presents roadblocks for bilingual applicants, some educators say. Substitute House Bill 1015, sponsored by Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos, D-Seattle, attempts to solve these problems...

WSU researchers develop corn-based air filter

PULLMAN — A new type of air filter made of corn protein instead of petroleum plastic appears to be better able of filtering out small pollutant particles as well as toxic chemicals like formaldehyde than current air filters, according to a press release from Washington State University...

WSU names new Lind Dryfarm director

PULLMAN — Washington State University announced on Thursday that agronomist and soil scientist Surendra Singh has been selected to head the university’s Lind Dryland Research Station, according to a WSU press release. “Dryland wheat production in Washington is not only important from an economic standpoint, but also for global food security,” Singh said in the press release. “As rainfall patterns change, cost of fertilizers and other inputs rise, and weed and pest pressures increase, research at Lind and WSU keeps us ahead and ready.” ...

Huskies back to state for the first time in 14 years

OTHELLO – For the first time since 2009, the Othello Huskies girls basketball team is heading back to state. Othello Head Coach Adolfo Coronado said the team’s energy on the court against the defending champion Ellensburg Bulldogs early in the season showed how far the girls could make it this season.

Broncos playing well at the right time

RITZVILLE – After winning 10 of their final 12 games, the Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos advanced to state with a 50-48 win over Okanogan in the 2B District 6/7 Crossover. “Very happy for them to get the job done,” LRS Head Coach Dustan Arlt said. “Overcame some ups and downs throughout the year and some close losses. Started playing really well the last week of the season and it’s continued through districts and playoffs.” ...

Lady Vikings wrap up home slate in style

The Big Bend Community College Lady Vikings basketball team proved, once again, that it's not how you start but how you finish, overcoming an eight-point first quarter deficit to outscore the visiting Yakima Valley College Lady Yaks in the subsequent three quarters, on their way to an 83-71 NWAC East victory on Saturday (February 18), in their final home game of the season.

Lions return to state playoffs

Boys and girls teams push into final stretch of season

MOSES LAKE – For the second straight year, boys and girls teams from Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School are heading to their respective 1B state basketball tournaments. Both squads played in the Central Washington 1B title game last week, with the Lion boys taking home a title. Now, both squads prepare for a state run.

Kenneth Gregory

Kenneth Ralph Gregory passed away on Feb. 19, 2023, at Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake, Washington. He passed away two hours after his 94th birthday as he was born on Feb. 19, 1929. Kenneth was born near Monroe, Washington at his parents' home near Wagner’s Mill, about two miles from Monroe. Kenneth (Kenny) was a bachelor all his life. He is survived by one brother, Sidney Paul Gregory (Mary) of El Paso, TX. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews: Cliff Gregory (Claudia) of Yuma, Arizona; Mary Jane Hayes of Camano Island, Washington; Betty Bjorn of Marysville, Washington; Debbie Gregory of Granite Falls, Washington; Steve Gregory (Maryjean) of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Geri Gregory of San Antonio, Texas; Sheryl Cassella (Chris) of Moses Lake and Paul Gregory (Tawny) of Bennett, Colorado, as well as 23 great-nieces and -nephews. 26 great-great-nieces and -nephews and six great-great-great-nieces and -nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Grace (Munn); father George Gregory; brothers Eugene, Clifford, George and Mervin; and nephews and nieces Linda Gregory of Snohomish, Washington; Dianne Grow of Mount Vernon, Washington; Doug Gregory of Snohomish, Washington; Rita Marlene of Spirit Lake, Idaho; Richard Gregory of Kirkland, Washington and Daniel Gregory of Shelton, Washington.

Adam Lerma

Adam William Lerma died peacefully in his sleep Feb. 12, 2023. He will be remembered and missed as a husband, father, brother and son and always a friend. He was preceded in death by his best friend and loving wife, Amy Wilson Lerma. Adam is survived by his two daughters Alexis and Alyssa and four siblings Derek, Amy, Rebecca and Lorrie. He will be sorely missed by his mother Shirley, his parents-in-law Donna and Darrel, and others in his extended family, who loved him very much. Adam treasured special moments with family and friends and often spent his time with them adventuring. He sought adventure outdoors, between the pages of a good book, online within the gaming communities or while seated at the kitchen table. Sadly, for those of us left behind, Adam has leveled up and will enjoy new adventures with Amy, and perhaps a drop of whiskey (two of his favorite things).

GALLERY: 2023 Mat Classic

TACOMA – Sixty-six wrestlers from the Columbia Basin traveled to the Tacoma Dome to compete in this weekend’s Mat Classic, with 34 wrestlers eventually placing in their respective brackets.

Letter: Trust God, not technology

I recently got the chance to see the limited showing of the “Left Behind” movie which is based on the Biblical teaching regarding the return of Jesus for his bride (the Church) and the tribulation of the end times. The timeline of end times depicted in the movie is described throughout the Bible culminating in the Book of Revelation. It is pretty easy to see things taking shape when you consider the push towards a one world government (globalism), social credit scores to control behavior (think buying and selling, et cetera), and the ever-popular “never let a catastrophe go to waste” technique used by those in power to achieve a desired outcome. I read a book not too long ago where the atheist/globalist author mocked God and detailed how man is god and that we through science, trans-humanism, and genetic engineering will achieve utopia and immortality. All of these things are the precursor to the coming of “the man of lawlessness” depicted in the movie and foretold in the Bible.

LETTER: Scholarship program needs volunteers

Since its beginning 17 years ago, the Moses Lake Alumni Association has been offering graduating seniors a $1,000 scholarship, totaling $500,000 to date. This year's deadline to submit applications is Feb. 28. We understand that up to 15 scholarships of $1,000 can be awarded this year. We are writing because this invaluable program is in jeopardy. Volunteers are needed to administer this program to keep it alive and well. Sickness, aging and death all naturally take their toll, and fresh, younger blood is needed to replenish the heroic and selfless efforts of those who have served and are serving so well for so long.

Law enforcement records for Feb. 23

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Ephrata PD Feb. 15 Report of a two-vehicle non-injury collision near the intersection of Division Avenue West and Alder Street Southwest. Feb. 16 Report of theft from a business in the 200 block of Basin Street Southwest.

Cheryl Baker

Cheryl Baker, 63, of Moses Lake was peacefully called to Heaven on Feb. 19, 2023. Born Valerie Cheryl Zimmer on Oct. 26, 1959, in Mojave California, she was the third of four children born to Raymond and Colleen Zimmer. She settled in Moses Lake, where she raised two of her children. In 1994, she met and married the love of her life, Calvin Baker, a veteran of the Moses Lake Police Department, who passed in 2008. She attended and graduated from Big Bend Community College in 1995, as well as the local police academy, and served as a deputy for the Grant County Sheriff's Department before eventually becoming a stay-at-home mother. Cheryl was an adventurous soul, dabbling in many interesting careers and hobbies. She was also an avid painter, woodworker and crafter who loved spending time with friends and family and working with her community.

Milky Way celebrates 75 years of dairy trucking

SEATTLE — Milk hauler Milky Way — whose trucks are seen frequently on the roads of parts of Grant and Adams counties — is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023, according to a press release from Milky Way parent company Lynden. Founded in 1948, Milky Way is one of the largest milk haulers from dairy farms to dairies in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, the press release said...

Murray touts WSU Breadlab research in visit

BURLINGTON — During a visit on Wednesday to Washington State University’s Breadlab at the Port of Skagit, Sen. Patty Murray highlighted the importance of federal support for research into improvements in food processing and value-added agriculture...

Riparian bill moves out of House Ag Committee

OLYMPIA – Four legislators have come together, in a bipartisan effort, to protect and restore Washington’s riparian areas – land located adjacent to rivers – with House Bill 1720. “We believed that the people engaged (and) involved in this effort can make decisions and do things and we believe that we can trust them to do those things and that we can work together and find solutions,” said Representative Tom Dent (R-Moses Lake), a primary sponsor of the bill. “That’s why there were four of us on there; two Democrats, two Republicans. We’re still there. We’re lockstep because we believe in the people.” ...

Samaritan Healthcare finishes 2022 with a profit

December net income pulls health district out of the red.

MOSES LAKE — Thanks to a good month for revenue in December – partly due to a one-time payment – Samaritan Healthcare finished 2022 with a small profit. “We’ve been able to finish off pretty well with revenue,” Samaritan Chief Financial Officer Alex Town said. “For the year to date, we are up 7% (above the budget projection), which is pretty phenomenal for the organization.” ...

Kraken win two of three, M’s to start spring training

Seahawks, Storm make roster moves

SEATTLE – With Opening Day on the horizon, the Seattle Mariners get started with spring training later this week. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken got back to their winning ways with back-to-back wins.

Domestic violence bills look to improve victim safety

Victims of domestic violence will get more protection under a package of bills now moving through the state Legislature...

David A. Koenig

David A. Koenig died Feb. 1, 2023, at his home in Wenatchee, Washington. He was born on Oct. 12, 1939, in Brooten, Minnesota, the son of Walter and Ann Koenig. David moved with his family from Minnesota to Washington in 1955 and graduated in 1957 from Moses Lake High School. He then entered the U.S. Navy and was trained as an electronic specialist. After leaving the Navy, he married Janet Minatani in 1962. They moved to Chelan, Washington where he worked for Douglas County PUD at the Wells Dam project and retired in 1997. He was known for walking the streets of Chelan with his coffee.

Louise Ramona Mott

Louise Ramona Mott, 93, passed away Feb. 20, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Basin sports schedule Feb. 22-28

COLUMBIA BASIN – After progressing through their respective brackets, five local teams qualified for state basketball competition. With trips to tournaments in Spokane and Yakima on the line, teams from Lind-Ritzville/Sprague, MLCA/CCS, Othello and Warden will play their regional games on Friday and Saturday...

Dertings named GCCA Cattlemen of the Year

EPHRATA, WASH. – Will and Nicole Derting were recognized as the 2022 Grant County Cattlemen of the Year at the Grant County Cattlemen’s Association banquet in January...

Legals for February, 22 2023

Bill supports state employees fired over vaccine mandate

OLYMPIA – House Bill 1814, if passed, would prioritize reemployment and pension service credit of public employees separated from service due to the COVID-19 vaccination mandate...

Nurse license compact passes committee

OLYMPIA — A bill allowing Washington to join the interstate Nursing Licensure Compact passed the House Committee on Postsecondary Education and Workforce Friday. “We’re prioritizing the areas where we have a lack of workers,” said Rep. Alex Ybarra (R-Quincy), the ranking member on the Postsecondary Education and Workforce Committee. Ybarra said the House has already passed interstate compacts for dentists, dental hygienists, speech-language therapists and mental health counselors this session. There is also a bill for an interstate compact for massage therapy but it has not gotten out of committee...

WA House committee considers traffic stops, train length and per-mile tax

OLYMPIA — Washington legislators are considering a trio of bills that, if passed, would alter what law enforcement officers can do during traffic stops, limit the length of trains in the state, and establish a voluntary pilot program statewide to charge vehicles a per-mile road use tax. During a hearing of the Washington State House of Representatives Transportation Committee on Tuesday, legislators discussed a measure, House Bill 1513, from Rep. Chipalo Street, D-Seattle, that would limit the ability of police officers, sheriff's deputies and Washington State Patrol officers to use traffic stops for non-moving violations like busted tail-lights.

Meeting will determine what’s required to reopen Adams Co. Jail

RITZVILLE — What it will take to reopen the Adams County Jail, and how to make plans for the jail’s future, was the subject of an hour-long discussion at the Adams County Commission meeting Tuesday. “We need to start coming up with an actual game plan to address what we currently have, and what we’re going to do going forward,” Wagner said. “And it needs to be faster than slower.” The jail was closed and has been the subject of continuing discussions among the commissioners and Adams County Sheriff Dale Wagner. Wagner said the jail actually has been a subject of discussion between different commissioners and three different sheriffs for over a decade, and it needs attention now...

Adams Co. economy shows signs of slowing in December

RITZVILLE — After declining for 19 consecutive months, the year-over-year unemployment rate in Adams County increased in November and December 2022. The county’s unemployment rate in December 2022 was 7.6%, up from 5.9% in December 2021. Unemployment also increased between November and December 2022. November’s unemployment rate was 4.9%...

MLHS Torres signs with Wenatchee Valley

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake High School’s Jazlynn Torres signed to play both volleyball and softball with Wenatchee Valley Community College Tuesday. “She’s consistent, she’s coachable, she’s a leader,” said MLHS softball coach Mike Hofheins. “I mean, she’s got all those things, those check marks you want for a college athlete so she’s going to be a huge asset to Wenatchee.” Being able to play both sports was a large part of her decision to choose WVCC, Torres said...

Family affair

Handing on the business of styling hair

MOSES LAKE — After 54 years of cutting and styling hair, Linda Benson decided it was time to hang up her shears, her smock and her clippers. “I got my license in 1969,” said Benson, 73. “I enjoyed working with people, making them look nice, and getting to know them and become their friend.” Benson, who owns Hair Affair at the corner of Alder Street and Fifth Avenue near downtown said she and her husband will take some time to travel and basically hand the business over to her granddaughter McKenzie Garza, though the actual management of the business will remain in the hands of Nancy Hull, who has worked with Benson for the last 20 years.

Donna Fountaine

Donna Lenore Fountaine, 78, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023. There are no services scheduled at this time. You are invited to view her online tribute to see updated service information at www.HeritageMemorialChapel.com. Arrangements are in the care of Heritage Memorial Chapel, East Wenatchee, Washington.

Christina Louise Cobb

Christina Louise Cobb, 89, of Ephrata passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 16. She was born on Nov. 18, 1933, in Spokane, Washington to Harry and Dorothy Hartman. She attended Spokane schools and graduated from North Central High School in 1951. On Aug. 26, 1951, Christina married the love of her life John Robert Cobb in Spokane, Washington and they were sealed for eternity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah on Feb. 25, 1970. In 1964 they moved to the Ephrata area with their eight children and the following year their youngest son was born.

Versatile sound

Badger Mountain Dry Band creates bluegrass out of varied material

GEORGE — Almost anything can be turned into bluegrass, as the Badger Mountain Dry Band demonstrated at the George Community Hall on Saturday. “We play lots of different kinds and styles of music,” said Jim Honeyman, lead vocalist and mandolin player for BMDB. “Basically whatever we want, adapted into bluegrass style and played with bluegrass instruments.” Saturday’s set list covered a pretty broad range of music, all converted, as Honeyman said, run through the filter of mandolin, fiddle, guitar and high vocals (sung from the heart and through the nose, as banjo player Nick McLean said) that defines bluegrass.

Legals for February, 21 2023

Not spring yet

Temperatures in low teens to return this week

COLUMBIA BASIN — Spring is coming, isn’t it? After all, temperatures crept north of 50 degrees over the weekend - in fact they got close to 60 degrees. February is almost over, so that winter weather, those cold temperatures heading down toward zero, that’s all in the rear-view mirror, right? ...

Advocates press for highly capable testing for all students

OLYMPIA - School districts should be required to test all students to see if they qualify for more challenging classes. That is the message behind Substitute Senate Bill 5072, proposed by T’wina Nobles, D-Fircrest. It requires districts to screen all students during the school day for participation in a “Highly Capable Program (HCP)...

Mavs swim best times at state

FEDERAL WAY – The Moses Lake Mavericks left this weekend’s State Boys Swimming and Diving Championships in Federal Way with their heads high, and some new personal bests to hang their hats on. Moses Lake had swimmers advance to the finals in six different events and placed 20th as a team with 28.5 points...

Huskies take third at 2A Mat Classic

Othello’s Freeman wins 195-pound title, capping high school career

TACOMA – The Othello Huskies finished third at the 2A Mat Classic for the second-straight year over the weekend, and senior Terrill Freeman wrapped up his high school career with a state title in the 195-pound bracket. Othello, who had 11 wrestlers qualify to compete at the Mat Classic in Tacoma, had eight wrestlers place; junior Isaac Campos (113), freshman Mason Russell (120), junior Anthony Abundiz (126), senior Forrest Roylance (138), senior Brandon Garza (182), Freeman (195) and senior Josue Solorio all took home medals...

RECAP: Mat Classic placings

TACOMA – Thirty-four Basin athletes placed at the 2023 Mat Classic at the Tacoma Dome over the weekend, including Moses Lake’s Ashley Naranjo, Royal’s Alondra Morales and Othello’s Terrill Freeman taking home state titles. See below for a full list of Mat Classic placers, including scores for teams.

Royal girls take third at Mat Classic

Three Knights place, Morales takes second straight title

TACOMA – Just like last year, Royal senior Alondra Morales returned to Royal City with a state championship after defeating Toppenish freshman Islah Alcala in the 145-pound finals of the girls 2A/1A/2B/1B Mat Classic...

Mavs girls take gold

Moses Lake hits the mat in Tacoma and leaves with championship

TACOMA – After taking sixth in the girls division at last year’s Mat Classic, the Mavericks came out on top at the Tacoma Dome this weekend and took home a first-place trophy and scored 136 points as a team. This year’s girls wrestling season was the first to divide the girls into two separate brackets; a division for 3A/4A schools, and a division for 2A/1A/2B/1B schools...

First responders urge caution

EPHRATA - Grant County Fire District 13 responded to a single-vehicle collision Monday morning near the intersection of State Routes 28 and 283, southwest of Ephrata...

Evergreen State looks to go greener

Renewable energy topic of conversation at Capitol as Washington legislative session rolls on.

OLYMPIA – Looking to go green, the Washington House and Senate are considering a bill requested by the governor that would identify possible clean energy sites across the state and create a council to evaluate clean energy projects with the goal of transitioning off fossil fuels. “Eastern Washington is blessed by incredible things the Creator has given, which is water, beautiful topsoil, great growing conditions; but the Creator also gave them the two biggest resources of energy which is the sun and the wind,” Washington Governor Jay Inslee told the Herald...

State dinosaur passes House chamber

OLYMPIA – A bill, designating the Suciasaurus Rex as the official state dinosaur, passed the Washington House of Representatives Monday. “This is a DINO-mite piece of legislation,” said Representative Melanie Morgan (D-Parkland) on the House floor...

Lanny H. Starr

Lanny H. Starr, 81, of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away on Feb. 11, 2023, from long-term effects of diabetes. He died in his sleep as a patient of Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, Washington. Lanny was born on Jan. 26, 1942, in Tremonton, Box Elder, Utah. He was the first son of Carl Henry and Nola Hopkins Starr. Lanny married Arlene (Smith) Starr on Dec. 20, 1967, for time and all eternity in the Logan, Utah Temple.

Adams County Pet of the Week for Feb. 20

Meet Fluffer!

Hi there! I’m Fluffer and I’m ready for a family to snuggle in with. Right now I’m hanging out with the folks at Adams County Pet Rescue, but I’d be happy to hang out with you too. Like all of the pets at ACPR, I am “fixed” – whatever that’s supposed to mean – and I’m up to date on all of my shots. The vet says I could use a few extra treats and a new tennis ball though – doctor’s orders. Come say hi to me and all of my friends at ACPR at 1961 W. Bench Road near Othello. Call ahead at 509-488-5514 and visit the website at adamscountypetrescue.com. If you’re not able to adopt, the shelter wouldn’t mind a donation or two. Find out what they need by giving them a quick call – pretty sure doggy biscuits are a good donation. Just sayin’.

The 4-1-1 on UTIs in cats and dogs

For pets with urinary tract infections (UTIs), an everyday task like peeing can be uncomfortable and possibly painful. Since UTIs are common in cats and dogs, owners should understand the cause and symptoms of UTIs as well as how to resolve them with veterinary guidance. Dr. Johanna Heseltine, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explains that most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the bladder through the urethra, two organs that form the lower urinary tract...

Grant County pet of the week for Feb. 20

Meet Tito

Meet Tito! Tito is a dandy of a fellow in need of an especially loving family because he has Feline Immunodeficiency Virus - also known as FIV. He is the biggest love of all time and enjoys playing with his toys and being around people. He's super affectionate. He is also up to date on vaccinations and neutered. To get more information on this little fluff ball, call 509-762-9616 or visit Grant County Animal Outreach's website at www.grantcountyanimaloutreach.org. The shelter is located at 6725 Randolph Rd NE in Moses Lake.

Weather for Monday, Feb. 20, 2023

Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 54. Southwest wind 11 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. Monday night should be mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy. Tuesday: A chance of rain and snow, mainly after 4pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 46, and breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible. Tuesday night is looking at a 30% chance of snow, mainly before 10 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18. Blustery. Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 26 and windy. Wednesday night is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a low around 11. Blustery. Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 24, while Thursday night should be partly cloudy, with a low around 10. Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 30.

A day in the life of a legislator

Showing what it's like to work in Olympia

OLYMPIA - During session, legislators have many different things that they do throughout the day and Senator Judy Warnick (R-Moses Lake) gave an insight to what that looked like last week. “The people I meet and being able to help solve problems,” Warnick said, is her favorite part of being a legislator.

Into the Lions' Den

Moses Lake Christian Academy senior and 2022-23 Associated Student Body President McKenna Meise cuts the ribbon on the school’s new gym, The Den, in a short ceremony Friday morning surrounded by MLCA staff, other students and members of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Rodriguez signs with Yakima Valley Community College

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School soccer player Abril Rodriguez will take the field for Yakima Valley Community College next fall. Rodriguez signed a letter of intent to attend YVCC last week. “It was close to home, and the coach was very friendly. I thought we could work well together,” Rodriguez said. “And I just really liked the campus, too.”

ML to fund 2023 fireworks, looking at Ag Parade drone show

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council voted to hold a traditional 4th of July fireworks celebration in McCosh Park this year, but is also looking at the possibility of having a drone show as part of the annual Ag Parade later in the year. Speaking at a regular meeting of the council on Tuesday, Moses Lake Museum and Art Center Manager Dollie Boyd said the city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department would organize this year’s fireworks display since neither the Downtown Moses Lake Association nor the Moses Lake Farmers Market wanted to take on the task.

Othello uses defense to take 48-43 win over Grandview

OTHELLO — The Othello Huskies girls basketball team built a sizable lead and contained a comeback from a determined Grandview team for a 48-43 win in Othello Thursday night. With the win, Othello advanced to play Clarkston Saturday for a berth to the state tournament.

Lionhearted

MLCA/CCS’s Boorman scores 30, Lions overcome 15-point deficit to win district title

WENATCHEE – Down by 15 points early in the third quarter, the Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School boys basketball team needed a spark if they hoped to come back and take home a Central Washington 1B title. That spark came from senior Jeff Boorman, who scored 24 of his 30 points in the second half to lead the Lions to a 59-58 win over Riverside Christian on Thursday night.

MLCA/CCS girls basketball falls in Wenatchee

WENATCHEE – Turnovers proved costly for the Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School girls basketball team on Friday night in Wenatchee, falling 51-38 to Waterville-Mansfield in the Central Washington 1B district finals. After being tied at five entering the second quarter, the Lions found themselves down 25-10 at halftime. MLCA/CCS Head Coach Josh Kast said the team had 15 turnovers in the first half.

Moses Lake woman jailed following damage to courthouse

EPHRATA — A Moses Lake woman is in jail after inflicting damage on the Grant County Courthouse in the wee hours of Friday morning.

Mavs take down Eisenhower in Big 9 tourney

YAKIMA – Following Tuesday’s 42-33 win over West Valley (Yakima), the Mavericks continued their stout defensive play in their 47-45 win over Eisenhower in the second round of the Columbia Basin Big 9 district tournament. “It was a complete team effort, for sure,” Moses Lake Head Coach Matt Strophy said. “And it really started on that defensive end, making it tough for them to score.”

Kenneth Wentworth

Kenneth R. Wentworth, 92, passed away Feb. 10, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Gordon Robinson

Gordon Robinson passed away on Feb. 3, 2023, at the age of 82. He was born in Prosser, Washington on July 21, 1940, to Sylvia and William Robinson. His family briefly moved to Missouri but eventually ended up in Longview where he attended RA Long High School. Gordon loved cars. Shortly after high school he and his brother Bob founded the first Untouchables Car Club. Gordon eventually left Longview and traveled throughout the West, learning different trades along the way. He was very proud of the trades he had learned throughout his life and would often tell tales of different work experiences. He moved back to the Longview area for a few years but eventually settled east of the mountains in Moses Lake. Gordon was the ultimate tinkerer and had a wonderful knack for solving problems. He would rather build something than have to buy it. He also loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. He would spend many days on the lake with Maggie, his Scottie dog and fishing partner.

Pam Boole

Pam Boole was born to Alice and Costa Watts in Longview, Washington, on Dec. 28, 1944, and passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on February 13, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Pam was the middle child, with Colice her big sister, and Clyde the baby of the family. She graduated from RA Long High School and soon after, she became an investigator for the Longview Police Department and subsequently worked on investigations with the Washington State Welfare Fraud Office. In 1994, she married Doug Boole and she became JuJu to all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren that would join the family. In 2000 Pam and Doug retired, bought a truck and a fifth wheel and joined all those other gray-haired people touring the U.S.

Reclamation readies for 2023 irrigation

GRAND COULEE — The Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees and operated much of the Columbia Basin Project, announced on Thursday that it will begin operation of the Potholes Reservoir and O’Sullivan Dam outlet works and Banks Lake and Dry Falls Dam outlet works on March 1, with Columbia River water set to flow into Billy Clapp Reservoir that same day in preparation for the 2023 irrigation season...

A modern look

Quincy High School Band to receive new uniforms after community effort

QUINCY — The Quincy High School band will be getting new uniforms with the help of a donation from the Quincy Music Boosters and a grant from the Washington Music Educators Association. Devan Chandler, the district’s director of bands, said it had been a while since the uniforms were replaced. “If you were wondering, the last time a uniform purchase was made to my knowledge was 1988,” Chandler said. “So we are overdue.” ...

“His energy is contagious”

Moses Lake’s Thurman on to state in adaptive swim

MOSES LAKE – Danny Thurman, a junior with the Maverick boys swim team, has found success in the adaptive swimming events this season for Moses Lake. Beyond achievements made in the pool, Thurman has been a key part of the team’s camaraderie throughout the year. “Hanging out with my friends and my coach,” Thurman said of what he enjoys the most about swimming...

“All or nothing at this point”

After a regional championship, Ephrata’s Sager moves on to State

EPHRATA – Senior Hudson Sager entered the 2A Boys Region 4 tournament with goals of making it to state – and avenging a loss he took in the first-place match of the Central Washington Athletic Conference district tournament.

Building permits for Feb. 17, 2023

City of ML, unincorporated Grant County

Cougars send 10 to state

WARDEN – Ten Cougar boys wrestlers are traveling to Tacoma for the 2023 Mat Classic this weekend, coming off of a strong performance at last weekend’s 1B/2B Region 2 tournament. As a team, Warden placed third at regionals and is looking to ride that momentum into state. “We had a great performance last week at regionals, and we just couldn’t be happier with the way the kids performed,” Warden Head Coach Johnny Hernandez said.

Aiming to improve

Wahluke seniors Zebrano, Mendoza advance to Mat Classic

MATTAWA – Wahluke senior Anthony Zebrano once again qualified for the Mat Classic, and is looking to improve on his finish in this year’s edition of the state tournament.

Back for more

After placing third at 2022 Mat Classic, Othello brings 15 wrestlers to state

OTHELLO – After winning a regional championship as a team by over 100 points, the Othello Huskies boys wrestling team is sending 15 wrestlers to the 2023 Mat Classic. Othello placed third as a team at the 2022 Mat Classic, with nine wrestlers placing in their respective brackets.

Back to state

Quincy’s Alvarez, Medina head back to Tacoma Dome

QUINCY – Jackrabbit sophomore Saidt Alvarez and senior David Medina are heading back to Tacoma for the Mat Classic this weekend, a year after both placed at state in their respective brackets.

16 Mavs on to Tacoma

MOSES LAKE – Between the boys and girls Maverick wrestling programs, 16 Moses Lake wrestlers are heading to the 2023 Mat Classic at the Tacoma Dome.

Wrestling with experience

Knights send six to state tournament

ROYAL CITY – Returning state placers Alondra Morales and Emma Villa are two of the six Knights traveling to Tacoma for the girls 2A/1A/2B/1B state tournament this weekend.

ACH’s Tristen, Everett Wood on to state

COULEE CITY – After finishing second in their respective brackets, Almira/Coulee-Hartline senior Tristen Wood and junior Everett Wood are on to represent the Warriors at the 2023 Mat Classic in Tacoma. The duo, who are brothers, are joined by their fellow brother in eighth-grader Porter Wood and ACH junior John Pierce as state alternates in the 126- and 170-pound brackets, respectively.

Huskies qualify six for state

OTHELLO – Six Huskie girls wrestlers punched their tickets to state at the Girls 2A/1A/2B/1B Region 3 tournament in Warden last weekend, with junior Lucy Giles (135), senior Nayeli Leal (140), freshman Kiara Haertling (145), senior Thalia Gallegos (170), junior Elia Velazquez (190) and sophomore Alejandria Espindola (235) all qualifying for the 2023 Mat Classic.

First-year success

New LRS wrestlers head to state

RITZVILLE – With a roster full of wrestlers new to the sport, the Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos still managed to have six wrestlers move on to the 2023 Mat Classic. Bronco senior Myra Miller (190) and sophomore Emmy Klewin (155) both advanced to the girls state tournament. For the boys, junior Gabe Smith (195) and sophomore Brock Tracy (285) advanced to state. Eighth-grader Wyatt Gibler (106) and freshman Waylon Rosman (113) are alternates in the boys tournament...

Thinking small

Kit home legislation could ease housing crunch, aid those facing homelessness

OLYMPIA — Everybody knows there’s a housing shortage, especially for very low-income people and solutions are hard to come by. State Sen. Jeff Wilson, D-Longview, thinks he may have the start of one, however. “A hundred years ago, people bought houses from the Sears catalog – they came in a boxcar, you found a local crew to build them or you did it yourself,” Wilson wrote in a press release announcing the introduction of Senate Bill 5657. “We see prewar kit bungalows standing proudly today in every community of the state. As prices of starter homes skyrocket, we ought to take another look at kit homes as a solution for today.”

Legals for February, 17 2023

Museum displays thrifted objects to examine prejudice

WENATCHEE — Consider the flesh-colored crayons in an exhibit at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center (WVMCC): from 1903 the pinkish brown is the only flesh tint, which was renamed "pink beige" in 1949 and then renamed "peach." It wasn't until 1992 that Crayola launched the first multicultural colors to represent a wider range of skin colors. And what of the burnt sienna color called Indian Red? Could something so seemingly innocuous be reinforcing prejudice? ...

Newhouses accept sign for father’s namesake

OLYMPIA - In anticipation for the destruction of the Irv Newhouse building early next month, Congressman Dan Newhouse and family were presented with the sign bearing his father’s name that used to hang on the building...

Ephrata council talks pickleball courts, garbage contract

EPHRATA — A group of volunteers wants to build new pickleball courts and donate them to the city of Ephrata. “We are severely lacking in recreational opportunities in our park system here in Ephrata. Especially for adults,” resident Jean Patterson told members of the Ephrata City Council at a regular meeting on Wednesday. “I have lived here for 30 years and there’s not one new park added, and we’ve lost two tennis courts.”

WA Ag committee moves 6 bills forward

OLYMPIA — The House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources passed several bills Wednesday that now move on to the next step in the legislative process. The committee met in the John L. O'Brien Building and briefly went over the bills and any amendments before breaking for caucus. Then they came back for an executive session to vote on what bills would move on from committee and which would not...

WSU develops test for canine bleeding disorder

PULLMAN — Washington State University researchers have developed a test that helps identify dogs at risk of a potentially fatal disorder that can result in excessive bleeding and bruising following canine surgery...

Help cancer patients through recycling

MOSES LAKE - Two local recycling centers are putting proceeds from donated recyclable materials toward the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation. To donate your household recyclables for the cause, drop them off at Moses Lake Iron and Metal or Consolidated Disposal Services in Ephrata. The Moses Lake facility is located at 228 W. Commerce Way. Call 509-754-2468 for information on donating at the Ephrata location.

Untapped

A sign of things to come on the window of the Moses Lake Taproom.

MOSES LAKE — Will Stakelin and his son Connor Stakelin didn’t want to let the space once occupied by Squirrelfight Artisan Brewing stay empty for very long. “A lot of people had no clue that Squirrel Fight went out of business,” Connor said as he stood in the cavernous room where Squirrel Fight used to brew beer. “But the reality is, the space was vacant, and all of their items were up for auction a couple of months prior to us even leasing the space.” ...

Active communities

A look at events coming up in the Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE — A night of awards and games in Othello, and afternoon of music and suds in Moses Lake, a Civil War story in Quincy - there’s a lot going on around these parts the next month or so. The Othello Chamber of Commerce will host its annual banquet beginning at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 616 E. Juniper St. “Casino Night” is the theme for 2023, and the evening includes silent and live auctions and games...

Commentary: Keeping our communities safe

We are fortunate that our law enforcement continues to serve the people of the 13th District with professionalism, dedication and compassion. The brave men and women behind the badge are an integral part of our communities and are doing everything they can to keep our communities safe with the resources they have, despite the unfortunate restrictions placed on them.

Mavs advance to second round

Girls team trumps West Valley in 42-33 win

MOSES LAKE – The Mavericks used their defense to ride off to a 42-33 win over West Valley (Yakima) in the first round of the Columbia Basin Big 9 district playoffs on Tuesday night, outlasting a cold second quarter and holding an attempted comeback by the Rams in check. “We talked about it in pregame in the locker room, that no matter what, we control the effort on the defensive end,” Moses Lake Head Coach Matt Strophy said. “If we can keep them from scoring, our offense will come around – and it did.” ...

Law enforcement logs for Feb. 16

The reports below were provided by the police department or jail indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law...

RECAP: Kraken drop four of five, M’s prep for spring training and WNBA free agency

SEATTLE – The Seattle Kraken wrapped up their East Coast road trip with a loss on Tuesday night, the Storm added another forward and the Seattle Mariners begin spring training on Thursday. Check out this week’s professional sports recap for an update on the three squads...

Warnick at work in Olympia

OLYMPIA - Senator Judy Warnick (R-Moses Lake) sits at her desk on the Senate floor Wednesday. The Senate voted on second and third readings of more than a dozen bills...

Moses Lake cuts ribbon on Larson Rec Center

MOSES LAKE - Carrie Hoiness, recreation superintendent, and Susan Schweisow, former parks, recreation and cultural services director, formally cut the ribbon on the City of Moses Lake's Larson Recreation Center on Tuesday surrounded by city officials, current and former members of the city council.

'Allison's Law' seeks to increase access to fentanyl test strips

OLYMPIA - Allisone McClanahan suffered from severe chronic pain and fibromyalgia. To ease her pain, the 26-year-old took a pain pill from a friend she thought contained oxycodone. Instead, she died of a drug overdose in 2021...

Dent, Warnick bills would create assessment process for MLIRD

OLYMPIA - A bill currently being considered by the Washington State Legislature would change the process for how the Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District collects assessments for rehabilitation operations. “(House Bill 1494) is specifically for Moses Lake,” said State Representative Tom Dent (R-Moses Lake), the primary sponsor of the bill...

Warden water system in need of TLC

City council reviews changes to 20-year water plan and infrastructure needs

WARDEN — While the city of Warden has more than enough water to meet projected needs for the next 20 years; however, the city still needs to make significant investments in its delivery system to make sure water can continue to get to residents. “You have the capacity you need for 20 years. You’re already there,” said Jamin Ankney, an engineer with Seattle-based consultancy Grey and Osborne, which is helping the city revise its comprehensive water plan. “From a capacity perspective, your water system is in really good shape."...

Yolanda Jesus Garcia

Yolanda Jesus Garcia passed away Feb. 7, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Peggy Justesen

Peggy Justesen, 94, a longtime Moses Lake resident, passed away in her home on Feb. 13, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born in Plymouth, Utah on Sept. 27, 1928, to William and Lenore Silvester and moved to Moses Lake with her husband and young family in 1954. She is survived by her brothers Ned Silvester and Bill Silvester and her children, Don (Linda) Justesen, Cheryl (John) Leeder, Gary (Gail) Justesen, Blaine (Ursula) Justesen, Karen Hiatt, Jim (Danielle) Justesen and Lynnette (David) Plate, along with 22 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Ray Justesen, grandson Stacy Pruett, granddaughter Stephanie Belnap and son-in-law Vaughn Hiatt, as well as her brothers Clarence Silvester and Kyle Silvester and sister Sandra Birks.

Arting early

Young, local artists on display at museum

MOSES LAKE — More than 250 budding artists got to see their work on display and show it off to the community Saturday at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. “Oh, everyone has been so excited,” said Colleen Seto, the preschool instructor at the museum. “The preschool teachers showed up; the children have been able to show off their art, their friends’ art.” ...

A big job, but a good job

New Adams Co. commissioner learning intricacies of new position

OTHELLO — Recently elected Adams County Commissioner Mike Garza said there’s more to the job than he anticipated, and that’s a good thing. “What I’ve figured out is that it’s a lot more - elaborate, a lot more time-consuming, is a good word. Much more intricate than I thought the position would be. Which is okay. Which is good,” he said. “There are a myriad of things that a commissioner can fill his days with - all important things. It’s one of those (jobs) where there are enough issues that need tending to that a guy could fill his days very easily.” ...

Legals for February, 15 2023

Othello school levy passing in preliminary results

OTHELLO — Othello School District voters are approving a three-year educational programs and operations levy by a wide margin in preliminary results from a special election Tuesday...

New blood alcohol limit law clears WA Senate committee

OLYMPIA - Ashley Bonus said she began her fight against impaired driving after her sister, Stacy Gammons-Ankerfelt, died in an accident in 2012. Now, she wants a new law that lowers the blood alcohol level needed to sustain an impaired driving conviction. “I work hard to make a change for my sister. I would never want any other family to feel the pain we feel every day. So, I work really hard just to make any change I can,” Bonus said...

MLCA/CCS boys, girls look to take home league titles

MOSES LAKE – Berths to the 2023 state basketball tournament are on the line for both the Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School’s boys and girls basketball squads on Thursday night, as they prepare to play in their respective district title games at Wenatchee High School. MLCA/CCS Girls Having earned the No. 1 seed in the Central Washington 1B tournament, the Lions only needed one win to advance to Thursday's title game. Their 62-20 over Entiat marked MLCA/CCS’s 13th straight win and punched its ticket into the district championship. Senior Kali Kast led the Lions with 21 points, 10 of which came in the first quarter. Fellow senior Makiya Kast scored 15 points in the win, connecting on two first-quarter three-pointers.

New nickname?

OLYMPIA - Washington State might have an official nickname if a bill that passed a Senate committee becomes law, but it's not really “new.” You’ve seen it on everything from license plates to a state college...

Basin sports schedule Feb. 15-21

COLUMBIA BASIN — It’s state championship time here in the Basin, with both the 2023 Mat Classic and boys state swim and dive being hosted on the west side. Along with state meets, some local basketball teams remain alive in their respective district brackets. Check out this week’s Basin sports schedule, which will be updated online at www.columbiabasinherald.com as teams progress through their brackets.

Book club kits available from NCW Libraries

WENATCHEE — Book clubs in the NCW Libraries system looking to mix it up, or a group looking to start a new book club, can take advantage of additional “Book Club Kits” added to the library system collection...

Ecology fines Coulee City ranch for wetlands damage

COULEE CITY — The Washington State Department of Ecology has fined a Coulee City-area rancher nearly $268,000 for illegally damaging about two-dozen alkali wetland areas near Park Lake just south of Coulee City...

USDA adds $850 million in conservation funding

NEW ORLEANS — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is making an additional $850 million in funding available to farmers and forest owners nationwide this year to help adopt and implement conservation programs, according to a press release from the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service...

New watermaster selected for ECBID Othello district

OTHELLO — Kyle Carlson has been selected as the Othello watermaster for the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District. Carlson will replace current watermaster Rod Barker, who is retiring March 31. “I’d like to thank Rod for his years of service to the district and wish him well,” wrote Craig Simpson, ECBID secretary-manager, in a press release. “We’re thrilled to promote Kyle Carlson to the Othello watermaster position.” District officials also announced that Joel De La Torre has been hired as the ditchrider for Othello 523, and Wyatt Ivey has been hired for the ditchrider’s job in Othello 522. Jonathan Quezada has been hired as a district construction worker. “Our team has continued to grow and evolve as we remain focused on providing reliable and sustainable irrigation water for our landowners,” Simpson wrote. “I am confident that these new team members will enhance our ability to do so.”

Moses Lake to host water seminar

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Municipal Services Director Kirk Holmes will be speaking on the subject of water at the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center on Thursday, March 9, at 6 p.m., according to a city press release...

CWU Recognized for Fulbright achievement

ELLENSBURG – Central Washington University has been named a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Top Producing institution for the 2022-23 school year, according to a CWU press release. “Our faculty is among the best in the world, and this honor only further validates what we already know about their commitment to excellence,” CWU President Jim Wohlpart said. “The entire CWU community is already extremely proud of the work our esteemed faculty does every day. But for Central to be included in this elite class of higher education institutions gives us even more of a reason to keep improving.” ...

Grant Co. to lengthen two rural canal bridges

EPHRATA — Grant County is looking to extend a pair of wooden bridges over the East Low Canal this year, allowing the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District to finish widening the canal, according to Grant County Commissioner Danny Stone. “Every bridge that’s not fixed is a choke point,” Stone said...

ACSO personnel recognized for outstanding service

RITZVILLE — Deputies and staff at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office recognized their fellow employees for outstanding effort in 2022 at the ACSO awards dinner last week...

David W. Lee

Born in Wenatchee, Washington, David Lee grew up in Ephrata, where his parents John and Mary Lee owned and operated the movie theaters in the area. David graduated from Ephrata High School in 1961, where he was an excellent student and participated in sports, lettering in football, basketball and track. He always appreciated the excellent head start he received at EHS in his life-long pursuit of education and learning. He also formed friendships in Ephrata that he nurtured and maintained throughout his life, no matter where he was in the world. Lured by the school's excellent biology department, David enrolled at Pacific Lutheran University after high school. Midway through college, he dropped out for a year, and carrying everything he needed on his back, David took the proverbial slow boat to the South Pacific, exploring New Zealand, Fiji, the Society Islands and Hawaii. From these exotic travels, he was inspired to become a botanist.

Antonia Gonzales

Antonia Gonzales, 91, passed away Feb. 8, 2023, in Kennewick, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Warnick introduces state cactus bill in response to students' request

OLYMPIA - Washington’s nickname, “the Evergreen State,” doesn’t only apply to the green of the pine trees but also applies to the green of the shrub-steppe that covers most of Eastern Washington...

Newhouse named wine caucus co-chair

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Yakima, was named co-chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus in the 118th Congress, a job he will share with Rep. Mike Thompson, D-California, according to a statement from Newhouse’s office.s “As a proud grape grower, I know firsthand the strong economic contributions made by the grape and wine producers and the issues our industry faces,” Newhouse said in the statement. “I am honored to represent the flourishing, high-quality wine region of Central Washington. I look forward to working with Thompson to ensure the nation’s wine industry – from grape growers to winemakers and sellers –can continue to thrive and grow.”

Raise a glass

Wine production increases while worldwide demand decreases

KENNEWICK — There’s more wine out there than there are people drinking it, according to Christian Miller, a wine marketing specialist and researcher with California-based Full Glass Research. “There’s a substantial deficit in consumption versus production, and all that wine has to go somewhere,” Miller told attendees on Thursday, the final day of WineVit, the annual conference sponsored by the Washington Wine Growers Association.

Legals for February, 14 2023

Cannabis-related bills work through Wash. legislature

OLYMPIA — Monday was a big day for cannabis-related bills working their way through the Washington House and Senate. Several bills had public hearings and executive sessions which could determine if a bill will continue through committee, or die...

RECAP: Regional wrestling placings

COLUMBIA BASIN — Local wrestlers competed in regional tournaments across the east side on Saturday, including 15 Basin wrestlers taking home regional championships. See below for a full list of placings for area wrestlers, and stay tuned later this week for a full preview of the 2023 Mat Classic. 1A Boys Region 3 tournament Royal: freshman Dennis Hernandez (113), second place; freshman Kevin Almonte (132), fifth place; freshman Jesus Morales (138), sixth place; freshman Shea Stevenson (145), fifth place; freshman Mario De La Rosa (152), sixth place; freshman Alan Garcia (160), sixth place; junior Aram Garnick (170), third place; freshman Jack Gilbert (170), sixth place; Wahluke: sophomore Victor Mateo (106), fifth place; sophomore Leandro Bucio (113), sixth place; sophomore Jose Valdovinos (120), fifth place; senior Josue Mendoza (126), third place; freshman Antonio Valdovinos (126), fifth place; senior Anthony Zebrano (220), third place;

Maverick boys, girls prep for postseason

MOSES LAKE — Both the Moses Lake boys and girls basketball teams wrapped up their regular seasons on Saturday, and now quickly move into their respective Columbia Basin Big 9 tournaments. The Maverick boys will travel to Sunnyside while the girls will host West Valley (Yakima). Both games will be played on Tuesday.

Bill to ‘fix’ Blake decision passes Wash. Senate committee

OLYMPIA - A substitute bill to mend Washington’s drug possession law has passed the Senate Committee on Law and Justice Thursday...

Wash. commerce director to step down

OLYMPIA — Lisa Brown, director of the Washington State Department of Commerce, will step down effective March 3, according to a statement from the department...

Fire near Moses Lake destroys home

MOSES LAKE – A family home in the 6000 block of Road N NE burned to the ground Sunday morning, according to a Grant County Sheriff’s Office statement...

Data center under construction in Quincy

QUINCY — Construction has begun on a new data center near the intersection of D Street Northwest and Road R Northwest in Quincy...

One convicted in sex abuse case

EPHRATA — Michael Gene Rice, 48, of Ephrata was convicted last week of multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. He goes back to court March 15 for sentencing...

Juvenile arrested with K-9, public assistance

OTHELLO — A juvenile suspect was taken into custody after an alleged car theft required a search involving one of the Adams County Sheriff’s K-9 units Sunday.

Robin Arlene Tapper

Robin Arlene Tapper passed away Feb. 6, 2023, in Warden, Washington. She is survived by her father, Roger A. Tapper Sr. of Warden, Washington, her brother, Roger A. Tapper Jr. and his wife, Phyllis of Warden, Washington, her sister, Ruth O’Neill and husband Jeff of Arlington, Washington, numerous nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand nephews, numerous cousins and a special aunt Pearl. She is preceded in death by her mother Geraldine, and sister Rachelle.

Bonnie Byington

Our loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, friend and disciple of Jesus Christ passed away on Feb. 8, 2023, at the age of 85. Bonnie Bell Platt was born June 4, 1937, in Cedar City, Utah, as the second child to Rheabel Butterfield and J. Clair Platt. She had four siblings. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Wyatt Craig Byington, her brother Jay Owen Platt and her sister-in-law Susan Nielson Platt. Bonnie was a longtime resident of Moses Lake (since 1972). She spent her early years in southern Utah where she grew up during the Depression and World War II, which taught her the value of hard work, sacrifice, and family. When she was 14, her family moved to western Idaho. Bonnie attended New Plymouth High School where she met her husband, Carl Byington.

Cathy Lindsey (Kirkwood)

Cathy Ann Lindsey (Kirkwood), 71, of Republic, Washington, passed away on Jan. 30, 2023, in Spokane Valley, Washington. She was born on Oct. 20, 1951, at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington to William G. "Bud”/”Bill" Kirkwood and Clara M. Kirkwood (Wagner). Cathy lived a full and active life, always working hard and making her home and family her top priority. She was active in 4-H and tennis as a child and teenager. She spent many summers in Wilbur, Washington with her grandparents, aunt and uncle, and cousins. Cathy also attended Eastern Washington State College in Cheney, Washington.

Steering horses away from botulism

There’s nothing more satisfying than filling an empty stomach with food, but unknowingly serving or eating spoiled or contaminated food can cause health concerns. While humans may experience food poisoning as a result, horses can develop botulism, which is deadly. To keep horses healthy, Dr. Amanda Trimble, a clinical assistant professor of equine internal medicine at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, recommends familiarizing yourself with botulism symptoms and preventative measures...

Amazing Shake participants put their skills to the test

MATTAWA — Wahluke Junior High Principal John Muchlinski said the idea behind the Amazing Shake is that communication skills are as crucial to young people as academic skills. “Whatever (career) you choose, you’re going to have to interact with people, and you’re going to have to carry on conversations. And that’s what this is about, is being able to interact with people, be polite, carry on conversations, know follow-up questions, and those kinds of things that you don’t necessarily get in your standard academic class,” Muchlinski said...

Weather for Monday, Feb. 13

Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 46. Breezy, with a west wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Monday night is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a low around 28. Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Tuesday night is expected to be mostly clear, with a low around 22. Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 41, while Wednesday night is expected to be partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Thursday: Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Thursday night should be mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 44. Source: National Weather Service

Royal City considers security cameras

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City City Council considered the purchase of surveillance cameras at Tuesday’s meeting. Royal City Police Chief Rey Rodriguez presented council members with three options for PODS, or portable observation devices from Security Lines US, a California-based supplier of electronic surveillance equipment. “This first set I want to put right here as close as we can to Camelia and Ahlers,” he said. “To keep an eye on the park and that intersection (where) you get a lot of collisions.”

Summerfest at risk

ROYAL CITY — Last July, the streets of Royal City were filled with fun as the town’s annual Summerfest brought out parades, concerts, games and food. This year, it may not happen. “Nobody wants to volunteer anymore,” said Carly Smith, the chair of the Summerfest committee. “It can’t be run by four people, and four people only,” Those four people – Smith, Tiffany Workinger, Sharon Chesterman and Sherrie Rodriguez – have been the entire committee for the last three years, Workinger said, and all have stepped down this year due to other obligations.

BBCC President pushes for education legislation in Olympia

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College President Sara Thompson Tweedy spent a week in Olympia, meeting with legislators and other college presidents to expand access to education and promote funding to attract and retain educators. “The thing I can say about our (local) legislators is that they absolutely understand the importance of Big Bend to our community,” Thompson Tweedy said.

Pet of the Week: Valkyrie

Valkyrie is a Siberian Husky mix about 7 years old. She likes to laze around in the sun and would make a great cuddle buddy to binge watch a TV show...

Proposal would expand Running Start to sophomores

OLYMPIA — A bill being considered by the Washington State Legislature would expand the state’s Running Start Program, which allows high school juniors and seniors to earn college level credits, to include sophomores. “It’s a heavy lift when you’re a junior and senior to try to accomplish your two-year degree in those two years,” said Sen. Brad Hawkins, R-Wenatchee. “A little running start to Running Start might be good to actually accomplish some of the two-year attainment that we’re seeking in the state.”

Legals for February, 13 2023

Mahomes, Chiefs beat Eagles 38-35

Mahomes takes home MVP honors

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes shook off an ankle injury, turned back into a magician and pulled out another comeback on the biggest stage to help the Kansas City Chiefs win their second Super Bowl in four years. Mahomes threw two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter and scrambled 26 yards on the go-ahead drive before Harrison Butker kicked a 27-yard field goal with 8 seconds left to give the Chiefs a 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night. “He’s the MVP,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said about Mahomes. “That’s all that needs to be said. MVP. And you saw it tonight.” ...

Dreams of state

Basin wrestlers compete at regional tournaments

Regional wrestling competitions will be held on Saturday, with wrestlers from around the Basin competing to move on to the 2023 Mat Classic next weekend. Matches were held in Spokane, Warden and Rearden.

Moses Lake School Superintendent Monty Sabin and the week in sports on the Basin Studio Podcast

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the Studio Basin podcast, senior reporter Cheryl Schweizer sits down with Moses Lake School District Superintendent Monty Sabin to discuss how he got involved in the education field, how the district has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and more. Next, sports reporter Ian Bivona joins to preview this weekend's regional wrestling competitions and district basketball games. The Studio Basin podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3jLtvsg.

Omak takes down Quincy in CTL title game

WENATCHEE — The Omak Pioneers cut down the nets at Wenatchee High School on Friday night after knocking off the No. 1 seed Quincy Jackrabbits 71-52 in the Caribou Trail League district title game. Omak used an early 13-1 first-quarter lead to ride out to a 19-point win over the Jacks. “You can’t get off to a poor start like that and expect to win,” Quincy Head Coach Scott Bierlink said. “We made a run there in the third (quarter) and had a chance – just didn’t play well.” Quincy managed to cut the Omak lead to just seven points multiple times in the third quarter, but the Pioneers were able to end their scoring runs but stepping up on defense.

Cougars dominate on defense, defeat Goldendale 76-15

WARDEN — After shaking off some early game nerves, the Warden Cougars dominated with its defense en route to a 76-15 win over Goldendale in the first round of the girls Eastern Washington Athletic Conference playoffs. “There’s always some nerves, and I think we saw that a little bit in the first few minutes,” Warden Head Coach Josh Madsen said. ‘We had a few sloppy turnovers. It took us a few minutes to get our wits about us a little bit, but once we found our groove we looked pretty solid.” The Cougars pressed the Timberwolves, forcing turnovers after inbound passes and in the Goldendale backcourt, then scored in transition off of the turnovers.

Moses Lake School Board discusses, declines to pursue, flag policy

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School Board members decided not to pursue research on a possible policy governing the display of flags in district buildings. Board members discussed the question briefly at the regular board meeting Thursday, following a request from board member Paul Hill. Board chair Kevin Fuhr said the board discussed it sometime last year and board members had asked district officials to research it, but other events intervened and the board never pursued it. Hill said some districts in Washington have considered or adopted flag policies, some limiting displays to U.S. and state flags.

Police respond to MLHS gang fight on Thursday

MOSES LAKE — Officers with both the Moses Lake Police Department and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office responded to a large fight in the parking lot of Moses Lake High School on Thursday involving a number of students, according to MLPD Capt. Dave Sands. “There were kids around it egging it on, and all parties appeared to be gang-affiliated,” Sands said. “There were no weapons, no guns and no knives.” Sands said police were on the scene around 11 a.m. not long after the fight broke out, and officers detained a number of students at the scene, including handcuffing them, in order to regain control. However, while officers did remove some of the students involved in the fight from the scene, no students were arrested and booked, Sands added.

Wiona Ohlhausen

Wiona Ohlhausen, 63, passed away Jan. 13, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are in care of Pioneer Memorial Funeral Services.

Richard H. ‘Dick’ Siegert

Richard Herman ‘Dick’ Siegert passed away at his home in Leavenworth, Washington, on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023. The son of Wilmer and Myrtle Siegert, Dick was born in Spokane, Washington, and raised in Garden Springs, a Spokane suburb, on a homestead settled by his grandfather Herman Siegert. He was an active Eagle Scout and a member of the Order of the Arrow. Dick graduated from Spokane’s Lewis and Clark High School in 1959, then attended the University of Washington where he studied architecture and engineering and was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

David A. Koenig

David A. Koenig, 83, died Feb. 1, 2023, at his home in Wenatchee, Washington. He was born on Oct. 12, 1939, in Brooten, Minnesota, the son of Walter and Ann Koenig. David moved with his family from Minnesota to Washington in 1955 and graduated in 1957 from Moses Lake High School. He then entered the U.S. Navy and was trained as an electronic specialist. After leaving the Navy, he married Janet Minatani in 1962. They moved to Chelan, Washington where he worked for Douglas County PUD at the Wells Dam project and retired in 1997. He was known for walking the streets of Chelan with his coffee.

Community connections

'Country Sweethearts' step out to support Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation and local cancer patients

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Fairgrounds played host to a little more than 500 Columbia Basin residents who were there on Saturday, Feb. 4, to support the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation. “We raised over $250,000,” said CBCF Executive Director Angel Ledesma...

‘Almost, Maine’

Masquers new production set to open this weekend

SOAP LAKE — A play about the many variations of love, as revealed as a cold night in a small Maine community, comes to the stage at the Masquers Theater for the next three weekends. “Almost, Maine” opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the theater, located at 322 E. Main St., Soap Lake.

'I always get more excited when there’s something on the line'

Moses Lake’s Regan, a district champ, preps for regionals

MOSES LAKE – Maverick Junior Dayton Regan entered the 2022-23 boys wrestling season with a specific goal in mind – make it to the state finals. Now he’s one step closer after winning a Columbia Basin Big 9 championship in the 152-pound class at last weekend’s district meet. “It was definitely exciting,” Regan said. “I always have confidence going into matches, but it boosted my confidence a lot more. It made me think that I really can do this.” ...

Hunting for the past

Othello native finds passion for aeronautic history of the Basin

COLUMBIA BASIN — The curiosity Mark Danielson had as a child has never gone away. Instead, he has turned that curiosity into a years-long passion that has brought many answers but most likely many more questions. “The thing I liked about the desert country was that it was so honest because whatever was done there, that evidence remained. You’d always be able to find it,” said Danielson...

Refuge at Mae Valley

New Hayden development selling fast on west shore of Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — There was a time not so long ago when Mae Valley west of Moses Lake was fairly wide open, with not much more than a golf course and Blue Heron Park, then called the Moses Lake State Park and a few streets of small houses. The west shore of Moses Lake has boomed in the last couple of decades though, and now there’s one more development springing up. The Refuge at Mae Valley is the latest development in Moses Lake by Redmond, Oregon-based Hayden Homes, which has built numerous others over the years, including the Crossroads and Hayden Estates neighborhoods north of Nelson Road on either side of Highway 17, and more recently, Maple Grove near Highway 17 and Grape Drive. Hayden Homes has been building in the Basin since 1993, according to the company’s website, with an emphasis on affordable family housing.

Legals for February, 10 2023

Stalking bill to eliminate blur between online and in-person issues

OLYMPIA - Stalking is stalking, whether it is in person or online, and they will be treated as identical crimes if a bill presented in the Legislature is adopted...

Bill supports training for fentanyl-sniffing dogs

OLYMPIA - The war against the use of illegal fentanyl will get some extra help in the future from drug sniffing dogs trained to detect the substance...

Nonprofits receive donations from Light Up Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Three Moses Lake nonprofit organizations received donations of $539 each, courtesy of the annual Light Up Moses Lake contest, its sponsors and participants...

Ephrata man rescued from Billy Clapp Lake

STRATFORD - A 70-year-old Ephrata man was rescued by bystanders Wednesday after falling through the ice at Billy Clapp Lake. A release by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office states first responders were called around 3:30 p.m. when a man fell through the ice attempting to rescue his dog who had fallen through the ice shortly before. Bystanders used a canoe to access the man and bring him to shore, the release states. He was treated by Grant County Fire District 12 EMTs and AMR and then flown to Confluence Health-Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee for treatment of hypothermia. The man's dog was able to self-rescue and is safe.

Quincy PD officers recognized for rescue

QUINCY — The fire had already engulfed the front of the house when Quincy Police Sergeant Jazzlynn Silva and QPD Officer Stephen Harder arrived on the scene. For their actions after they got there, Silva and Harder received an award from the city, another from Grant County Fire District 3, and a standing ovation from the crowd at the ceremony Tuesday. It was Jan. 10, and Harder said he had just returned to patrol. “I literally was two blocks from the station,” he said, and dispatchers notified him of an emergency, a structure fire on L Street Southwest...

District 13 legislators hold virtual town hall

OLYMPIA - District 13 legislators held a virtual town hall Wednesday evening to answer constituents’ questions about the legislative session and bills introduced to the House and Senate. Present on the webinar was Senator Judy Warnick (R-Moses Lake) and Representatives Tom Dent (R-Moses Lake) and Alex Ybarra (R-Quincy), along with Senior Public Information Officer Kurt Hammond as a moderator...

On to regionals 2023

Columbia Basin wrestlers head out to compete

COLUMBIA BASIN – Regional wrestling competitions will be held on Saturday, with wrestlers from around the Basin competing to move on to the 2023 Mat Classic next weekend. See below for a full list of Basin wrestlers, including alternates, heading to regional competitions across Washington’s east side...

Under the sea...

‘The Little Mermaid’ takes to the Quincy stage

QUINCY — A tale of love based on a classic Disney movie is running for two more weekends at the Quincy High School theater. The curtain rises on “The Little Mermaid” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 10 and 17 and 2 p.m. Feb. 11 and 18. The musical is presented by Quincy Valley Allied Arts and opened last weekend...

Police logs for Feb. 9, 2023

The reports below were provided by the police department or facility indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law...

DCYF Receives $4M grant to support early learning

OLYMPIA - The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families has received a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support early learning across the state...

Dent introduces childcare provider qualifications bill

OLYMPIA - A bill to make it easier for early learning providers to receive state certification was introduced to the House last week by Representative Tom Dent (R-Moses Lake)...

Green named interim Quincy PD chief

QUINCY — Ryan Green has been named the interim chief for the Quincy Police Department. Quincy City Council members approved Green’s appointment on a 6-0 vote at a regular meeting Tuesday. Green will replace Kieth Siebert, who announced his retirement from law enforcement last week. Siebert has accepted a job in the emergency management department at the Grant County Public Utility District...

An icy loss, signings and an $8.9M contract

SEATTLE – The Seattle Kraken returned to the ice after the NHL’s All-Star Break, while the Seattle Storm signed five players to contracts for the 2023 season. Check out this week’s professional sports recap for an update on the two squads, plus the Mariners resigning Dylan Moore...

Helen Gorden

Helen Gorden, 78, loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Feb. 2, 2023, at McKay Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Soap Lake, Washington. Helen was born to August and Lucille Botley on April 2, 1944, in Pineville, Louisiana. Helen was the third child out of nine children. Helen was very close to her siblings and loved them very much despite the distance. After high school, Helen moved across the country to Othello, Washington, where she took a job taking care of an elderly couple. There she met and married the love of her life, Douglas Gorden, on March 10, 1963. They enjoyed a happy, loving marriage of 58 years, until Douglas passed less than a year ago.

Randy Eugene Witte

Randy Eugene Witte, 52, of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. He was born in Chehalis, Washington on July 31, 1970, to Rock and Cindy Witte, and moved to Ephrata, Washington at 16 months old where he grew up to be an avid reader and lover of the arts, building pinewood derby cars in Boy Scouts, playing Dungeons & Dragons, and having sewer wars with his friends out on the farm. Randy graduated Ephrata High School where he was involved in drama.

Curtis Wentworth

Curtis A. Wentworth, 88, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away Feb. 5, 2023. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Marion May Oliver

Marion May Oliver was born in June 1929 and passed away in January 2023 at 93 years of age. She was born in Bellingham, Washington, and moved to California in 1949 and didn't come back to Washington until 1970. She lived in Moses Lake from 1975 to 2023. Marion was happily married to George in April 1950 for 53 years until he went to be with Jesus. She loved Jesus, George, her three kids, her grandkids, her great-grandkids, her great-great-grandkids and various cats through the years. Marion was a gracious woman with a fun, spunky personality.

Othello approves two police union contracts

OTHELLO — Othello Police Department officers and sergeants are getting a raise under the terms of agreements between the city and the unions representing them. Othello City Council members approved a three-year agreement with the union representing sergeants and a separate three-year agreement with police officers Monday. Both passed unanimously without discussion...

Thinking ahead

Chess players face off in Ephrata

EPHRATA — Chess isn’t something most people think of as a spectator sport, but in Ephrata on Saturday, it was the center of attention as about 100 children, encouraged by parents and teachers, gathered at Parkway Elementary School to show their checkmate chops. “Chess is a real thinker's game,” said Roger Pugh of the Waypoint Foundation in Ephrata, which sponsors the annual tournament. “You’ve got to think ahead. You’ve got to think before you move, and if not, you're gonna pay some consequences. And we hope they can use that same lesson in life.” ...

Basin sports schedule Feb. 8-14

COLUMBIA BASIN – Postseason contests are in full swing here in the Basin, with athletes from all 12 schools competing to move on in pursuit of district and regional championships. Check out this week’s Basin sports schedule, which will be updated online at www.columbiabasinherld.com as teams progress through their brackets...

The Warrior stands

To the Wanapum, Yakama, Wahluke School District and Mattawa, iconic image is more than school mascot

MATTAWA — To the Wanapum, residents of Mattawa and the Wahluke School District, the Wahluke Warrior is a symbol of a longstanding and valuable relationship, one that goes beyond the school. Alyssa Buck of the Wanapum Interface Office said the ties between the Wanapum, the WSD and the town of Mattawa go back decades. “The school district has been consulting with the Wanapum. They were, I guess, collaborating with the Wanapum before the warrior was even selected. The Wanapum leader(ship) had a big part in that,” Buck said...

Legals for February, 8 2023

Wahluke falls in SCAC districts to Naches Valley

MATTAWA – A cold shooting night plagued Wahluke in its 61-39 loss to Naches Valley on Tuesday night, the opening round of the South Central Athletic Conference district playoffs. “We could do a lot better than we did tonight,” Wahluke Head Coach Clayton Buck said. “I think tonight was probably our worst game of the season. We came out and battled against them last time – same thing, shots didn’t fall.” ...

Huskie boys send 22 wrestlers to regionals

OTHELLO – The 2023 Central Washington Athletic District champion Othello Huskies are riding a significant amount of momentum into the regional round of the postseason, bringing 22 wrestlers to Saturday’s regional tournament at East Valley (Spokane). Twenty wrestlers qualified for regionals, with two others qualifying as alternates. “Showing up with 22 (wrestlers), it’s nice to see because all year we’ve had a lot of depth,” Othello Head Coach Rudy Ochoa II said. “We’ve had high numbers here in Othello for a while now, so much so that we have to split the tournament just because we can’t get our guys in. It’s nice to show the depth.” ...

Fire destroys home south of Warden

WARDEN — An early morning fire on Tuesday gutted a house on Road 9 SE south of Warden, according to Warden Police Chief Rick Martin. Martin said no one was injured in the early morning fire, and the owners of the house were out of town.

Wipes bill clears House floor

OLYMPIA - A bill, sponsored by State Representative Alex Ybarra (R-Quincy), regarding compliance with labeling requirements for wipes, passed the chamber on Monday. “It was a really simple bill,” said Ybarra. “Basically, those wipes that you can't flush, they have to put a do not flush label on the packaging and that do not flush label has to be approved by the federal government.” ...

Ephrata High threat determined non-credible

EPHRATA – A social media threat led to the Ephrata School District excusing student absences Tuesday morning after it was reported to authorities. The threat was determined not to be credible by investigators. “In this instance, we were able to track down and find the subject who we thought was responsible relatively quickly and we were able to contact the subject and his parents,” said Ephrata Police Department Chief Erik Koch...

Mattawa annexes roughly 40 acres

MATTAWA — A new housing development could begin construction this spring on 40 acres annexed into the city of Mattawa. Members of the Mattawa City Council approved the annexation application and a development agreement between the city and CAD Homes, Moses Lake, at the regular meeting Feb. 2. The vote was 6-0; Council Member Wendy Lopez did not attend the meeting...

Spud sales volume down but values up in 2022

DENVER — While the overall volume of U.S. potato sales fell slightly in 2022 when compared with 2021, the value of those same sales rose 14.4% to $15.5 billion, according to data published by Colorado-based PotatoesUSA, a marketing organization of U.S. potato growers...

Coyotes take 4th in Winter Classic

MOSES LAKE — The 2023 Moses Lake Youth Hockey Association’s Winter Classic concluded on Sunday, with the hometown Coyotes placing fourth in the tournament. Moses Lake defeated Tacoma 5-3 on Friday, then tied 2-2 with Castlegar and defeated Seattle Jr. 4-2 on Saturday. The Coyotes fell to Eugene 5-0 in Sunday’s third-place game...

Open Market

Weekend event offers opportunities to shop for Valentine's Day, have fun

MOSES LAKE — If you’re looking for a place to maybe get that special someone a Valentine’s Day gift, Paul Carney has just the place – Open Market and Mimosas at Rick’s in Moses Lake. “It’s the first open market where you’re able to drink mimosas while you shop,” Carney said. “And maybe do some last-minute Valentine’s Day shopping as a couple. I think it’s cool because I’ve been to a few events where you can stroll and you can shop and it’s kind of romantic.”...

Back when...

A look at Washington's past

WASHINGTON D.C. - While many industries and organizations are looking to the future, sometimes it is important to look to the past to see how much has changed. Below are a series of black and white photographs taken in the early to mid 1900s across Washington State available through the Library of Congress. Most captions are provided by the Library of Congress record with slight editing for clarity...

Legals for February, 7 2023

One dies in Quincy accident

QUINCY - Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a one-vehicle accident in the 10000 block of Winchester Road NW near Quincy at about 11:20 p.m. Friday evening after a nearby homeowner called 911 after hearing a crash...

Tigers, Jacks come out on top of D6 girls tournament

QUINCY — Ephrata and Quincy finished first and second, respectively, in Saturday’s 2A/1A/2B District 6 Girls Sub-Regional, and the Tigers and Jackrabbits combined to send 26 wrestlers to Saturday’s regional competition...

Mavs take 2nd at swimming Districts

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Boys Swim and Dive Team took second at the district meet held in Moses Lake over the weekend. “The meet itself actually came down to whoever won the 400 Free(style) Relay,” said Moses Lake Head Coach Jason Hart...

ACH Warriors send 8 wrestlers to regionals

COULEE CITY — The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Warrior boys wrestling team will send eight wrestlers to the 1B/2B regional competition in Reardan this weekend after placing inside the top five at Saturday’s Northeast B Wrestling Championships...

GCSO mourns passing of K-9 Grizzly

The Grant County Sheriff’s Office announced the passing of retired K-9 officer Grizzly late last week.

Safe Streets for All funds local programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Transportation has awarded a total of about $9.2 million to communities in Washington through the Safe Streets for All program. Grant County will receive a portion of those funds.

Top of the pyramid

Mavs take home titles in 3A/4A Tumbling, Game Day cheer

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Mavericks successfully defended their state championships in last weekend’s WIAA State Cheerleading competition, taking home the title in 3A/4A Game Day Coed and 3A/4A Tumbling Coed...

Chemical incident at Lamb Weston leads to air monitoring in Quincy

QUINCY — Air quality is being monitored around the Lamb Weston processing facility in Quincy, 1005 E St. SW, following the release of anhydrous ammonia at the plant Sunday.

Wash. seeking proposals to help wildlife impacted by wildfires

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington State Conservation Commission and Washington State Department of Natural Resources are seeking project proposals to benefit wildlife affected by wildfire in eastern Washington.

Joel Juarez

Joel R. Juarez, 91, of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, 2023. He was born in Corpus Christi Texas on Dec. 28, 1931, to Manuel O. Juarez and Leonor R. Juarez. As a young boy he recalled helping with chores on the family farm such as milking cows and tending chickens. As a teenager he learned to plow and seed various crops with a team of mules. As a young adult he learned to repair cars and other farm equipment from his older brother Manuel. On Dec. 11, 1952, he was deployed to South Korea to serve in the Korean War, where he quickly ranked as a platoon sergeant. He returned safely in the fall of 1954 and was married to Beatrice V. Huerta on Feb. 12, 1956. In 1966 they moved to Moses Lake, Washington, where they raised their four children. For the next 56 years, home was Moses Lake where he made many new friends and reunited with old friends who also moved here from Texas.

UMANI Festival offers BBCC scholarships

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake’s UMANI Festival, which debuted last September, has funded a new scholarship for Big Bend Community College students, according to a statement from the festival committee...

50 years of flying

Retired BBCC instructor reflects on a long career

MOSES LAKE — When John Swedburg made his first solo flight on March 24, 1971, he decided to keep a souvenir of the event. The tail from the shirt he wore that day, complete with the date, the plane he flew, and the aircraft’s tail number. “My wife asked me one day when I was going through my fireproof box early in the early years of our marriage,” Swedburg said last Saturday in front of a class of pilots at Big Bend Community College. “I had this shirttail there and some other aviation memorabilia in there. And she said, ‘where is our marriage license?’” ...

Harriet West honored in hall of fame

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake musician and music teacher will be inducted into the Washington State Music Teachers Hall of Fame, according to a statement from Marina Munter, president of the WSMTA’s Moses Lake chapter.

Quincy High School teacher Rod Cool stresses importance of ag industry

QUINCY — In Rod Cool’s estimation, ag teachers have a pretty important job. “One thing I always tell people about teaching ag and FFA is that, now more than ever, agriculture education in high schools is the most important thing that they can teach,” he said. “Because the farm population is so small, percentage-wise, there’s no way that it can sustain itself. Less than 2% of Americans are producers that produce for everyone else, and then almost the rest of the world. So it’s our job as ag teachers to make sure that for every 100 graduates at any high school we turn out two farmers, because if we don’t we’re going to starve to death.” Cool is in his 36th year as an ag teacher, he said, including the last six at Quincy High School, and he’s got no plans to move on any time soon...

An emotional win

ML’s Macdonald, Bischoff prove clutch on Senior Night

MOSES LAKE — Clutch performances by Moses Lake senior co-captains Sydney Macdonald and Marissa Bischoff helped the Mavericks secure a 52-50 win on senior night over West Valley (Yakima) on Friday night. “It’s nice that we can lean on that senior experience and the calm, cool, collected nature that Marissa Bischoff had at the free throw line was crucial,” Head Coach Matt Strophy said. “(Macdonald), throughout the game did a fantastic job of attacking the rim. Then she also gets some perimeter shots because they sag on her, so she did a really good job tonight of reading things and taking what they gave us.”

Legislature look to combat illegal substance abuse

OLYMPIA — A bill currently under consideration by the Washington State legislature would expand the use of drug treatment as an alternative to prison for those convicted of misdemeanor drug possession. "Oftentimes, the arrest is what helps people get out of the immediate drug-induced crisis that they're in," said Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber (R-Republic), in a release by her office. "Getting them away from the bad influences around them and into various programs and offering services is a much more humane and effective way to handle drug abuse."

Pet of the Week

Black Jack is a year-old neutered male with a lot of energy and who’s very eager to learn.

Choosing The Best Probiotic For Upset Tummies

Having a stressed or sick pet is concerning, especially if diarrhea, gas, and digestive issues are present.

Weather for Monday, Feb. 6, 2023

Monday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 47. Southwest wind 5 to 9 mph. Monday night is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 46. Tuesday night will see continued partly cloudy, with a low around 32. Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 47. Wednesday night should be mostly clear, with a low around 26. Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Thursday night should be mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 43. Source: National Weather Service

Going to the mat

Wahluke’s Anthony Cuevas, top, works to get the win - which he did - at the district tournament for the 1A South Central Athletic Conference Saturday. The district tournament is the first step on the road to the Mat Classic Feb. 17 and 18. Results from the tournament, including the wrestlers advancing to the regional tournament next week, will be in the Tuesday edition of the Columbia Basin Herald.

Mavs compete at swim districts

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School hosted the District Swim and Dive meet over the weekend. Teams included Davis High School, West Valley (Yakima) High School, Wenatchee High School, Eastmont High School and Eisenhower High School. Preliminaries were held Thursday, diving on Friday and finals on Saturday. Pick up a copy of Tuesday’s edition for full coverage on how the Mavs did at finals.

Quincy Police Chief Kieth Siebert moving on to Grant PUD

QUINCY — Kieth Siebert said one of the attractions of a law enforcement career was the variety. “You never knew what you were going to get,” Siebert said. “You could go to the same house five times and get a different issue every time.” But Siebert said it’s time to move on from law enforcement. He announced his retirement as Quincy Police Chief last week; Feb. 15 is his last day at the QPD. The Quincy City Council is scheduled to select an interim chief at its Feb. 7 meeting.

New gym, same Lions

MLCA/CCS boys ‘grind out’ 62-60 win over Entiat

MOSES LAKE — Battling foul trouble and injuries, the MLCA/CCS Lions eked out a 62-60 victory over Entiat on Friday, locking up a Senior Night win, their first win in their new gym and a league championship in the process. Head Coach Emerson Ferguson said the first two goals for this season were to win 10 games and win the Central Washington 1B title. Now, they’re on to districts as the No. 1 seed.

Defending the net

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Coyotes goalie Wyatt Horst defends the net against a Castlegar shot during the Moses Lake Winter Classic 18U hockey tournament Saturday morning. The teams tied 2-2. The tournament concluded Sunday; results will be available in the Tuesday edition of the Columbia Basin Herald.

Legals for February, 6 2023

Washington state legislature, Samaritan Hospital bond, and sports on Studio Basin Podcast

On this episode of the Studio Basin podcast, staff writer Rebecca Pettingill joins senior reporters Charles Featherstone and Cheryl Schweizer to discuss the state legislative session, Samaritan Healthcare asking for a $130 million construction bond authorization and more. Next, sports reporter Ian Bivona joins to talk about Othello basketball, Quincy's Bring Home Da Beef girls wrestling tournament and the Moses Lake Youth Hockey Association’s Winter Classic. The Studio Basin podcast can be found on your favorite podcasting apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3YqcrH9.

Vanguard Now

Students highlight passion project during presentation

MOSES LAKE - From left, Peter Martin, Gauge Brown and Warren Skaug present the story of their online school news program “Vanguard Now” at Vanguard Academy’s Passion Project presentation event. About 900 parents, friends and family members came to the school to see students show off projects including baked goods, art and a homemade recumbent bike. About 300 projects were presented, according to Vanguard Principal Kelly Cutter.

Geologist to speak on Wenatchee Pinnacles

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Erratics, Ice Age Floods Institute will host a talk Feb. 14 on the Wenatchee Pinnacles, according to a statement from the organization...

Bill looks to encourage nuclear tech in state energy goals

OLYMPIA — House Bill 1584, which was introduced to the House on Jan. 25, would require advanced nuclear reactor technology to be considered, along with other carbon-neutral energy alternatives when developing the state's strategic energy goals. "I'm excited my bill helps expand this important energy resource," said Rep. Stephanie Barnard (R-Pasco), a primary sponsor of the bill. "Advanced nuclear reactor technology is price-competitive with other renewables. Because it's reliable and can be used on a large scale, nuclear energy can reduce our dependence on carbon-producing energy supplies." ...

Vroom...

Fairgrounds shift gears for go karts and family fun

MOSES LAKE — On a typical Saturday, the Ardell Pavilion at the Grant County Fairgrounds will most likely smell like livestock and hay. But last Saturday, it smelled more of exhaust fumes and motor oil, and was filled with the sounds not of horses whinnying or cows lowing, but small engines roaring around a small track...

Drive to succeed

Moses Lake-Othello Realtor of the Year making waves in the business

MOSES LAKE — The signs in Tara Zerbo’s office say it all: “I’m not bossy, I’m motivational” and “Wake up, kick (backside), repeat.” Zerbo, 37, was named Realtor of the Year by the Moses Lake-Othello Association of Realtors on Jan. 21. She also stepped down at that time as the president of the association, a role she handled with the same drive and energy her signs attest to. “Tara Zerbo is a first class person, takes her career extremely seriously and is a great role model,” said Jason Hall, managing broker at BHGRE Gary Mann Realty. “She was successful before entering the real estate industry so it's not surprising how well she is doing.”

Legals for February, 3 2023

Man charged with attempted murder

MOSES LAKE — A man has been booked into Grant County Jail following a domestic assault in Moses Lake, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department...

New license proposed for drivers delivering alcohol

OLYMPIA - Delivery drivers working for firms such as DoorDash and Instacart would be required to purchase a $50 state license and complete a certified class to deliver alcoholic beverages from bars and restaurants if a House bill under consideration passes...

2 Moses Lake students earn honors at Utah Tech

ST. GEORGE, Utah — Two students from Moses Lake received academic honors at Utah Tech University, according to information from the university...

Moses Lake woman arrested for stealing, selling tools

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake woman was arrested Thursday and has been charged with trafficking in stolen goods after trying to sell online some tools she had stolen from a local store, according to a Moses Lake Police Department statement...

More patients, smaller staff challenge for Samaritan ER

MOSES LAKE — More patients, fewer staff, more paperwork and cramped spaces have combined to put strains on the emergency department at Samaritan Hospital. Matthew Lockwood, the physician in charge of the department, detailed some of the challenges in a presentation to Samaritan Healthcare commissioners Tuesday. “If you have been there, you know that we’re small,” Lockwood said...

February 2023 events calendar

A listing of events in the Columbia Basin for residents and visitors to enjoy in February of 2023.

Three Grant Co. cities receive recreation grants

OLYMPIA - Three Grant County cities received grant money for recreation planning from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office...

Three Huskies sign with UMW football

DILLON, MONT. – Three Othello football players were announced as a part of the University of Montana Western’s 2023 signing class on Wednesday. David Julian Alegria, Sonny Asu and Giovanni Love will be heading to Dillon, Montana this fall, according to a release by the school.

District 12 legislators host virtual town hall

OLYMPIA — District 12 State Representatives Mike Steele (R-Chelan) and Keith Goehner (R-Dryden) held a virtual town hall Wednesday evening, allowing constituents to ask questions about the current legislative session, bills and any concerns they may have.

Alexa Moser hired as new BBCC volleyball coach

MOSES LAKE — Alexa Moser has found success just about everywhere she’s been when it comes to volleyball. Now, the former WIAA state champion and collegiate athlete is going to lead the Big Bend Community College volleyball team. “I’ve been a part of many successful programs both as a player and as a coach, and because of playing and being an assistant coach at this level, I know what it takes to be successful. And that’s commitment and dedication to the program,” Moser said. Moser said this will be her first head coaching job, having spent nearly four years as an assistant coach at Walla Walla Community College.

Joel R. Juarez

Joel R. Juarez, 91, passed away Jan. 25, 2023, in Moses Lake, Washington. Celebration of life will be Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. at Restore City Church 2227 W. Peninsula Drive, Moses Lake, Washington. A full obituary will follow.

Edward Massey

On Tuesday, Jan. 31, Edward John Benjamin Massey, beloved by family and friends, passed away at the age of 75. Born to Edward and Beverly Massey on April 8, 1947 in Springfield, Vermont, he was the eldest brother to five sisters: Kathy, Cyndie, Karen, Sharon and Julie. The Massey family moved to several locations before settling down in Moses Lake, Washington, where Ed graduated from Moses Lake High School in 1965. After high school, Edward worked at Basic American Foods and attended college at Big Bend Community College. He was then drafted into the Army in February of 1968. In Vietnam, he was appointed and served as an air traffic controller. During his service he graduated second in his class from the U.S. Army Aviation School and was honored with medals of accommodation including National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Purple Heart.

Patricia Jo Freeman

Patricia Jo Freeman, 72, passed away Jan. 25, 2023. Per Patty’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. She was born June 13, 1950, in Rapid City, South Dakota to Jean Mason and later adopted by Tom Mason. Patty graduated Charles Russell High School in Lewistown, Montana. She married Jim Jacks and had two children, Dawn Merrill and Kimberly Hensley. Patty remarried to Mike Freeman and adopted Mike’s son Shane Freeman, and they all resided as a family in Lake Stevens, Washington.

Virgil Glenn La Plant

Virgil Glenn La Plant of Ephrata, Washington, passed away at the age of 93 on Jan. 27 at Summerwood Alzheimer’s Care Facility in Moses Lake, where he received excellent care from their staff and Hospice. He was born to Glenn and Myrtle La Plant in Ringwood, Oklahoma on May 9, 1929. Virgil grew up on the family farm in Oklahoma and has been a farmer all his life. He proudly served his country during the Korean War, training officers as an artillery specialist at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma.

Stewart heads to New York on 1st day of WNBA free agency

Breanna Stewart couldn't turn down a chance to play in New York and potentially help the Liberty win their first WNBA championship. The most coveted free agent this offseason, who won the WNBA MVP award in 2018, announced on social media that she was going to New York with a photo of her in a Liberty shirt on Wednesday. Stewart had spent her entire career in Seattle since the Storm drafted her No. 1 overall in 2016. She won championships with the team in 2018 and 2020.

Effort to make roads safer wins bipartisan support

OLYMPIA - Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and Gov. Jay Inslee say they are backing a package of new laws aimed at protecting workers, pedestrians and commuters...

Wash. wolf management bill introduced

OLYMPIA - A bill just put before the Washington State Legislature will flexibility for the department of fish and wildlife to collaborate with local governments in the management of gray wolves...

Report: China bans some solar manufacturing tech exports

HONG KONG — China has reportedly banned the export of several important technologies needed to make solar panels, according to a report in the Hong Kong-based Asia Times on Tuesday...

Police logs for Jan. 24-29

The reports below were provided by the police departments and sheriff’s offices indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law...

Grant Transit to hold community input meetings

EPHRATA — Grant County Transit Authority will hold meetings in mid-February to get feedback from the community about their transit service in the county...

Samaritan Healthcare asking for $130 million construction bond authorization

MOSES LAKE — Samaritan hospital district patrons will be asked to accept or reject a construction bond for up to $130 million in a special election April 27. If approved, the bond would pay part of the cost of building a new Samaritan Hospital. District commissioners voted 5-0 to authorize the bond request at the commission meeting Tuesday, without discussion...

RECAP: Kraken enter All-Star break, Storm enter free agency

SEATTLE – The Seattle Kraken played five straight games at home in the runup to the NHL’s All-Star break, while the WNBA began free agency on Wednesday. Check out this week’s professional sports recap to see how the Kraken fared and a look at the Storm’s free agents...

Clean sweep

Othello boys, girls win over East Valley on senior night

OTHELLO — On a night celebrating their soon-to-be graduating players, the Othello Huskie boys and girls basketball teams both earned wins against East Valley (Yakima) that put the two squads in contention to host a playoff game during their district tournaments. The Othello girls first defeated East Valley 47-44 in a back-and-forth contest, with the Othello boys later leading nearly from start to finish in a 57-44 win over the Red Devils...

JoAnn F. Braun

JoAnn F. Braun was born JoAnn F. Grinolds in Sandpoint, Idaho on Feb. 3, 1941. She moved to Moses Lake in 1946 with her parents and sister Arloa Davis, all of whom have passed. JoAnn has been a longtime resident of Moses Lake. She graduated from Moses Lake High School in 1959. She was married in 1957 and had five children, of whom two passed away and three are living: Christine M. Williams, Steven A. Williams and Troy L. Williams. Shawn A. Caine passed in 2017 and Brian H. Rolison passed in 1982. JoAnn also is survived by 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. JoAnn’s husband Joseph A. Braun passed away Dec. 10, 2016. He was the love of her life. They liked to go four-wheeling in the sand dunes and take trips to Reno and Las Vegas.

Feb. 2023 senior events schedule:

There’s plenty to do in and around the Columbia Basin for seniors...

Sandhill Crane Festival registration opens Friday

OTHELLO — Registration opens Feb. 6 for the 25th Othello Sandhill Crane Festival, scheduled for March 24 to 26. “Silver Anniversary, Celebrating our Annual Visitors” is the theme for 2023. Advance registration is encouraged, and is available at the festival website, www.othellosandhillcranefestival.org...

Birth Announcements for Feb. 1, 2023

The information below was provided by Othello Community Hospital.

Staying active

Class provides fitness activities geared toward helping seniors keep moving

MOSES LAKE - A fitness class geared toward seniors, but also fitness beginners and those with mobility challenges, is available three days a week at a local gym. “I have a history of teaching senior classes,” said Chrystal Flerchinger, an instructor at South Campus Athletic Club. “(I’ve) probably been doing it for about 10 years so it's kind of a love of mine. I really enjoy it.” ...

Basin sports schedule Feb. 1-7

COLUMBIA BASIN – Local teams in the Basin will wrap up their regular seasons this week, with district competitions beginning as soon as Thursday when the Moses Lake boys swim and dive team hosts its district meet. Check out this week’s Basin sports schedule, which includes a Saturday full of district wrestling tournaments...

Ruff times

Grant County Animal Outreach deals with overcrowding, dated facility, challenging jobs at Moses Lake shelter.

MOSES LAKE — Grant County Animal Outreach has run out of room. “The facility was built in World War II,” said Kar Vanerstrom, GCAO’s vice president. “And there haven't been any updates on it, so it's kind of in dire straits.” ...