Ephrata High lockdown rumors unfounded
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 months, 3 weeks AGO
Despite rumors on social media, Ephrata High School did not enter a lockdown Wednesday. An incident with an upset student caused the rumor to start, but the situation was quickly deescalated by district staff.
FILE PHOTO
EPHRATA — Ephrata High School did not enter a lockdown Wednesday, according to Communications Director Sarah Morford. Rumors of a lockdown had appeared on social media earlier Wednesday morning.
“We did have a student who became upset and left class,” Morford said. “That class was in the Beezley building. At the time the student left, an administrator was present when the student exited the building. The administrator worked to help de-escalate the situation.”
She said security staff and 911, out of caution, were called to the school to help. While the social media reports said the student had claimed to have a gun, Morford said that was an unfounded claim.
“Staff in the building immediately confirmed that all exterior doors were secured and classes inside the school continued as usual, but there was no declaration of some sort of emergency in the school building,” Morford said.
She said the situation was resolved within five minutes.
ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
‘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
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
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.