Friday, May 01, 2026
70.0°F

Moses Lake Christian Academy sends graduates forth with prayers, blessings

NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 10 months, 3 weeks AGO
by NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer | June 12, 2025 1:00 AM

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Christian Academy marked a significant milestone May 31 as the Class of 2025 celebrated its graduation ceremony, featuring seven accomplished students.

The event, held at the academy’s auditorium, was attended by parents, faculty and friends, all coming together to celebrate the hard work and dedication of these young graduates.

The ceremony opened with a heartfelt message from Valedictorian Brandon Swinger, who reflected on the trials and tribulations that shaped their high school experience.

“Life is hard, so every day I pray that God makes me harder,” he quoted the class motto, emphasizing resilience and the importance of faith amidst challenges.

He further encouraged his peers to embrace their potential.

“You can either be the civilian or you can be the hero who sacrifices everything to credit those around him,” he said.

Swinger shared anecdotes about popular heroes like Peter Parker, drawing parallels between their struggles and the challenges faced by students in their academic journeys.

“Be like Peter, do the things you’re afraid to do,” he urged, inspiring his classmates to pursue their aspirations boldly.

Following Swinger’s address, Tyler Tadema, the senior class advisor, offered blessings and reflections on each graduate’s character.

“Jennika, you are a woman of grace. I bless you. God is able to make all grace abound to you,” he said, acknowledging the unique contributions of each student to the academy community.

His sentiments were echoed throughout the event, with every graduate receiving personal words of encouragement.

In his speech, Kayden Edwards highlighted the importance of continuous growth beyond graduation.

“The road ahead is uncertain. We might feel overwhelmed, but we can lean on that promise for most of our lives,” he said, referencing Matthew 28:20, which reassures believers of Christ’s constant presence.

The keynote address featured Mark Bassett, who underscored the values integral to the academy’s mission.

“Your journey is just beginning, and the questions you face are significant. Seek to be a shepherd, a servant, and to understand suffering in your path,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with the formal awarding of diplomas, marking not just an end but the beginning of a new chapter for the Class of 2025.

“Congratulations, Class of 2025,” the administration announced as the graduates turned their tassels from right to left.

    The Moses Lake Christian Academy students stand for the Pledge of Allegiance during their graduation May 31.
 
 
    Mark Bassett delivers the Charge to Graduates at MLCA's graduation May 31.
 
 
    The graduates at Moses Lake Christian Academy turn their tassels May 31.
 
 
    A Moses Lake Christian Academy senior accepts her diploma at graduation.
 
 
    A student hugs his mom during the Moses Lake Christian Academy graduation.
 
 
    The Moses Lake Christian Academy graduates walk into their ceremony May 31.
 
 
    Jennika Yushchuk will be attending dental school post-graduation.
 
 
    Brooklyn Dorsing will be attending Grand Canyon University post-graduation.
 
 



    Levi North will be attending Big Bend Community College post-graduation.
 
 


    Kayla Piper will be attending Big Bend Community College post-graduation.
 
 
    Kayden Edwards will be attending Florida Tech post-graduation.
 
 
    Brandon Swinger will be attending Big Bend Community College after graduation.
 
 
    A Moses Lake Christian Academy hugs her parents at graduation May 31.
 
 


ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON

‘Show up’
May 1, 2026 2 a.m.

‘Show up’

Local leaders say community voices shape schools, cities and trust

WARDEN — When Warden Mayor Rosaelia Martinez looked out over the audience at the April 28 Warden City Council meeting, she didn’t see empty seats. She saw neighbors. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.” That message – that showing up matters – was echoed by city and school leaders across the Columbia Basin, many of whom say public participation directly shapes decision-making, transparency and long‑term planning.

Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations
April 29, 2026 5:46 p.m.

Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations

WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a kratom ban and special event permit Tuesday night. It also discussed its comprehensive plan update and an ordinance for parking regulations. Around 17 residents were in attendance, a fairly large showing for a Warden council meeting. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Mayor Rosaelia Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input because it really validates what a lot of people are hoping to achieve in the city. Thank you. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.”

Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board
April 29, 2026 5:30 p.m.

Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board

EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Hospital received one application for a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3. Dr. Lowell Allred has applied for the role. He was officially nominated for the role at the April 28 board of commissioners meeting. “Public notice of this nomination shall occur between April 29 and May 14, to allow time for registered voters residing in the hospital district to also submit nominees for the vacant position,” said Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby.