Mayor Peter Sharp takes oath of office

SOAP LAKE – Grant County Commissioner Kevin Burgess adminstered the oath of office to Mayor Peter Sharp Wednesday. Sharp was previously appointed to this role at the Sept. 18, 2024, council meeting after his predecessor Allen DuPay quit during the Aug. 7, 2024, meeting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 HOUR, 9 MINUTES AGO

Newhouse, colleagues introduce infrastructure bill

WASHINGTON D.C. — On November 21, 2025, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers introduced the Urban Canal Modernization Act, HR 6279, aimed at addressing the deteriorating condition of urban canal infrastructure across the country. This legislation, sponsored by Representatives Dan Newhouse, R-WA; Mike Simpson, R-ID; Adam Gray, D-CA; and Russ Fulcher, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 HOURS, 29 MINUTES AGO

The Floral Cottage opens in Ephrata

EPHRATA — The Floral Cottage, a new floral design shop owned by Liz Graaff, held its open house Monday, drawing members of the community to celebrate the launch of the store. Located in the heart of Ephrata, the shop provides flower arrangements, plants and locally sourced gifts inspired by Graaff’s …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 23 HOURS, 9 MINUTES AGO

Gathered in Gratitude brings in $70,000 for McKay Healthcare

SOAP LAKE – Around 90 people Gathered in Gratitude for a fundraising event for McKay Healthcare and Rehab Center, raising nearly $70,000 for the long term care facility.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 DAY, 1 HOUR AGO

Ephrata water tower waiting for final tests

EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata is still waiting for the final testing to come back to the water tower. The city had originally hoped the tower would be connected to the water system by Thanksgiving; however, the intensive water testing is taking longer than anticipated.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 DAY, 7 HOURS AGO

Lions Park closed for new playground installation

EPHRATA – Lions Park will be closed to the public beginning Wednesday, as the City of Ephrata Public Works Department prepares for the installation of brand-new playground equipment and related site improvements. The anticipated closure will remain in effect through the end of the year, with the possibility of extending …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 DAY, 7 HOURS AGO

MLSD pursuing legal action to end work stoppage

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has filed suit to return teachers to the classroom, district Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said Wednesday. The district announced it has filed paperwork with Grant County Superior Court to end the work stoppage and order employees back to work. There …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 DAY, 8 HOURS AGO

MLEA, MLSD negotiations continue

MOSES LAKE — Negotiations continued Tuesday between the Moses Lake School District and Moses Lake Education Association, the district’s teachers union. Tuesday was the second day of the work stoppage after the parties failed to reach an agreement Sunday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 DAYS, 8 HOURS AGO

One subject arrested after residential burglary, additional arrests expected

MOSES LAKE — In the early morning Sunday, the Moses Lake Police Department was dispatched to a reported robbery at the Quail Run trailer park on Road H NE in Moses Lake, according to a statement from the MLPD. Upon officer arrival, it was discovered that two suspects entered a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 DAYS, 9 HOURS AGO

Moses Lake Parks and Rec offering day camp while schools are closed

MOSES LAKE — The Larson Recreation Center is offering an Explorers Day Camp until the Moses Lake School District work stoppage ends. The program offers students between the ages of six and 12, the opportunity to learn, play and hangout with peers and school is postponed.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 DAYS, 7 HOURS AGO

Gas prices drop nationally, locally

MOSES LAKE — Grant County, Washington and national average gas prices saw decreases this week. However, Adams County saw a slight increase in average fuel prices this week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 DAYS, 8 HOURS AGO

Moses Lake teachers begin strike Monday as negotiations continue

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School District teachers gathered outside of their respective campuses Monday morning, holding signs reading “On Strike!” School was closed for the district’s students Monday and will be Tuesday as well. Sunday night, it was announced that Moses Lake Education Association, the district’s teacher union, would …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 DAYS, 8 HOURS AGO

WA senators pushing on federal legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Washington senators are making progress on several pieces of legislation at the federal level. Washington’s two senators have been able to pass four pieces of legislation in one chamber this session, so far. Of those, two are resolutions designating April as the “Month of Military Child” and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 DAYS, 23 HOURS AGO

MLSD closed Monday as teachers opt to strike, negotiations to continue

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District will be closed Monday as a precaution for a potential strike by the Moses Lake Education Association, the district’s teacher's union. MLEA said their executive board voted to initiate a strike starting Monday, if an agreement was not reached by Sunday night …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 DAYS, 7 HOURS AGO

Students stacking up

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District board room was packed Wednesday night with people standing off to the side after all the seats filled, just to get a glimpse of the presentations. Children sang, shared their science projects and captured the attention of the school board.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 DAYS, 23 HOURS AGO

Moses Lake teachers commit to Monday strike, if no agreement reached

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Education Association executive board voted to initiate a strike Monday if an agreement is not reached with the Moses Lake School District by the end of mediation Sunday, according to a statement from MLEA issued Friday afternoon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 DAYS, 6 HOURS AGO

Ferguson appoints Tyson Hill to the WA Court of Appeals

EPHRATA — Governor Bob Ferguson appointed Tyson R. Hill to the Washington State Court of Appeals, Division III, marking the governor's inaugural appellate judgeship appointment since taking office in January. This appointment, effective January 1, 2026, comes as Division III Judge George Fearing prepares for retirement on the same date. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 DAYS, 23 HOURS AGO

Bird flu detected in grant county

GRANT COUNTY – The Washington State Department of Agriculture confirmed the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in Grant County on Oct. 11. The detection was reported in a large commercial poultry facility in Moses Lake. This case acts as a sobering reminder of …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

CWU building new geothermal plant, academic complex

ELLENSBURG — Central Washington University is making strides in its sustainability efforts with the development of the GeoEco Center and North Academic Complex, a project aimed at reducing campus-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The construction of the Academic Complex, currently …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

MLSD reaches agreement with Principals Association

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District and the Moses Lake Principals Association announced a tentative agreement on a new contract. The Moses Lake School Board will have to formally approve the contract.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

ACSO recovers stolen farm equipment

NINE MILE FALLS — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant with the assistance of Stevens County Sheriff’s Office in connection with an ongoing burglary investigation from 2024.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

Groff transferred back to permanent power

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced Groff Elementary repairs are going well, with a focus on electrical grounding and related systems. The school has successfully transitioned Groff’s electrical service back to permanent power from the Grant County Public Utility District. It had been transferred to a special …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

One shot in unincorporated Moses Lake on Tuesday night

MOSES LAKE — There was a shooting in the 4800 block of Stratford Road Tuesday night in unincorporated Moses Lake. One person was injured and taken to the hospital, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

A beacon of warmth in Ephrata

EPHRATA – In a world where the cold can bite and hunger gnaws at the edges of self-esteem, a local nonprofit, His Helping Hands, is turning that frost into warmth and that hunger into nourishment. Founded in 2011, the organization continues to make an impact through outreach programs, including a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

Grant Fairgrounds suspends riding activities amid EHV-1 outbreak

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds has announced a suspension of all private riding and open riding activities until at least December 16, as a precautionary measure against the ongoing outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 that was initially reported in Waco, Texas.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO

Grant County Fairgrounds: a legacy of community and celebration

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Fairgrounds, a cherished community hub, has stood as a testament to local traditions and agricultural heritage since its establishment in 1949, according to Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan. To commemorate its enduring significance, the fairgrounds recently released a collection of vintage photographs that chronicle its …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 2 DAYS AGO

Purple Sage Meadows developer considering suit against Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — A dispute between North Pacific Investments and the city of Soap Lake has intensified following NPI’s recent decision to file a formal legal appeal against the city's administration. The developer says Mayor Peter Sharp's denial of the Purple Sage Meadows' affordable housing project—a $66 million initiative intended …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 2 DAYS AGO

$75M Ephrata schools bond to go on February ballot

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board unanimously approved to move forward on the $75 million bond proposition on the February 2026 ballot to replace Grant Elementary and Parkway Intermediate schools along with partially renovating Ephrata High School.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 2 DAYS AGO

Grant County Election results

EPHRATA — The Grant County Election results were certified Tuesday with around 16,000 voters having filed ballots.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 2 DAYS AGO

MLSD passes resolution due to potential teacher strike

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors passed a resolution on Thursday in response to an possible strike by teachers represented by the Moses Lake Education Association. MLEA members voted to authorize a strike if a labor agreement is not met by Friday, Nov. 28.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 2 DAYS AGO

WA average fuel prices drop for tenth week in a row

MOSES LAKE – For the tenth week in a row, Washington’s average fuel price has decreased. As of ten weeks ago, on Sept. 15, average fuel prices were sitting at $4.66. As of Nov. 24, prices are sitting at $4.18, a nearly 48-cent difference.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 3 DAYS AGO

Sweet boy looking for cozy home

MOSES LAKE – Papa Roach, around three years old, is one of the newest residents at Grant County Animal Outreach. He attended the GCAO groundbreaking last week and disliked it when Megan Baum set him down during the ceremony. Baum said he loves attention; to be held and he has …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 3 DAYS AGO

Blasting caps neutralized in Ephrata

EPHRATA — Early afternoon Thursday, Ephrata Police Department was called for suspected blasting caps found in the northwest section of town at a construction storage yard. “They were found in a steel container. When they opened the container, they recognized that they were explosive devices. They immediately called MACC dispatch …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 3 DAYS AGO

Carson steps down as Soap Lake Chamber VP

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce Vice President Susan Carson made a statement at the recent regular council meeting that she will be stepping down from her role and the chamber as a whole, at the end of 2025. She also let the community know Abate of Grant …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 3 DAYS AGO

WA Department of Health reaffirms vaccine safety, addresses autism claims

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Health made a statement Friday that vaccines are an essential tool for protecting people’s health. It also stated that it is joining health agencies and associations across the country, such as the Autism Science Foundation, in confirming that there is no credible scientific …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 3 DAYS AGO

Soap Lake Creative District creating tile mural

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Creative District is inviting residents and visitors alike to participate in a unique community art project—the Tile Mural Project. Designed to engage the local community in a creative pursuit while beautifying the town, this initiative encourages participants to paint tiles that will be displayed …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 4 DAYS AGO

City of Ephrata, port enter interlocal agreement for economic grant

EPHRATA — In a move towards driving economic revitalization, the City of Ephrata has entered into an Interlocal Agreement with the Grant County Port District No. 9. The agreement aims to facilitate a joint application for a grant from the Community Economic Revitalization Board, providing an opportunity for the City …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 6 DAYS AGO

Soap Lake applying for $40,000 ARTS grant

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council unanimously approved a memorandum of understanding between the Soap Lake Creative District and the city to move forward on a $40,000 ARTS Washington grant application for new wayfinding signage. The council also approved for city officials to move forward on finalizing a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 6 DAYS AGO

Telehandler accident near Royal City sends 1 to hospital

ROYAL CITY — One subject was injured when the telehandler he was driving lost its brakes and crashed at a moderate speed into an apple orchard in rural Royal City, according to a statement made by Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO

GCSO recovers $20K tool for GCFD 5

MOSES LAKE — In August, Grant County Fire District 5’s fire station on Mae Valley Road was burglarized, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO

WDFW stocks 65,000 jumbo rainbow trout for Black Friday fishing

OLYMPIA — In a bid to encourage outdoor activity this Thanksgiving weekend, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is set to stock nearly 65,000 jumbo rainbow trout across 25 lakes statewide. The initiative offers anglers the chance to participate in the annual Black Friday fishing event, with fish weighing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO

Public School Employees of Moses Lake hold back on strike issue

MOSES LAKE — On Tuesday, the Public School Employees of Moses Lake held a membership meeting to vote on whether classified staff would or would not support the Moses Lake Educators Association if they choose to strike. PSE decided it will not be taking a formal stance of support if …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake entrepreneurs ready for Small Business Saturday

SOAP LAKE —This holiday season, the Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce invites community members to support their local businesses by participating in Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29, a nationwide initiative aimed at bolstering small enterprises after the busy Black Friday shopping sprees. This year marks the sixth year that Soap …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

New Ephrata tower full, final testing underway

EPHRATA — The long-awaited completion of Ephrata's new water tower is in its final stages, as city officials report that the structure is expected to significantly enhance water pressure and volume throughout the community. Public Works Director Rob Harris confirmed that the new reservoir, which can hold approximately 3.8 million …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

GCSO unveils 2025-27 strategic plan

EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has launched a strategic plan for 2025-2027, focusing on employee engagement, community outreach, maintaining accreditation and transitioning operations to a new jail complex. Sheriff Joey Kriete outlined priorities during a Tuesday interview, emphasizing the importance of enhancing public safety and operational effectiveness.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

WA resident first to test positive for new type of bird flu

GRAYS HARBOR — The Washington Department of Health confirmed that one Grays Harbor resident has tested positive for H5, a type of avian influenza. Further testing shows the virus to be H5N5, a type of avian influenza that has previously been reported in animals but never before in humans, according …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 2 DAYS AGO

Warden resident arrested Sunday for alleged assault, rape

WARDEN – On Sunday morning, the Warden Police Department was notified of a female being treated for injuries at the hospital in Othello. The female reported that the injuries occurred when she was assaulted physically and sexually by a prior domestic partner at their residence in Warden.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 2 DAYS AGO

Lutacaga Elementary fifth graders graduate from D.A.R.E. program

OTHELLO —The Othello Police Department celebrated the graduation of fifth graders from Lutacaga Elementary School Monday, marking a significant milestone in the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program. The graduation highlighted the diligence and leadership shown by students throughout the ten-week program, according to OPD Chief Dave Rehaume.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 2 DAYS AGO

Othello man convicted of odometer tampering

OTHELLO — U.S. Attorney Pete Serrano announced Monday, that Reynaldo Garza, a 53-year-old resident of Othello, Washington, was convicted on October 1, 2025, by a federal jury in Spokane on five felony counts of odometer tampering. The conviction culminated from an investigation led by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, which …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 2 DAYS AGO

Paws on the ground

MOSES LAKE – Cars lined Randolph Road Northeast as a crowd of people and pups gathered Monday afternoon for a milestone in local animal welfare. Grant County Animal Outreach officially broke ground on its new shelter facility located on Randolph Road Northeast just a short distance from the shelter’s current …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

Gas prices remain steady in Grant Co, nationally

MOSES LAKE – On Nov. 17, gas prices saw a slight decrease in Washington. However, prices remained the same as the previous week in both Grant County and nationally. Adams County had a slight increase this week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

One shot in Cascade Valley, suspect not in custody yet

MOSES LAKE – One person was taken to Samaritan Hospital after suffering a gunshot wound in an incident in the 7900 block of Dick Road in Cascade Valley Sunday evening. The suspect is not in custody as of 12 p.m. Monday, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

MLSD, union negotiations continue amid potential work stoppage

MOSES LAKE — Tensions are escalating between the Moses Lake School District and the Moses Lake Education Association as contract negotiations remain unresolved, leading to the possibility of a work stoppage by teachers and other staff. MLEA recently voted to authorize a strike should a labor agreement not be reached …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

MLPD conducts targeted enforcement at Civic Center Park

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Police Department Street Crimes Unit and Major Crimes Unit conducted a targeted enforcement operation at Civic Center Park in response to the ongoing municipal code and criminal violations. During the operation, according to MLPD, detectives made contact with 12 individuals. Of that, five arrests …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 5 DAYS AGO

Grant County Animal Outreach to break ground on new shelter

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Animal Outreach will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its new shelter facility at 2 p.m. Monday on Randolph Road Northeast, marking a milestone in the organization’s mission to provide improved care for animals in the community. With a projected cost of $2.5 million, the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake food drive going well

MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake’s food drive has gone well so far, according to Moses Lake Museum & Art Center Superintendent Dollie Boyd. The food drive, spearheaded by the museum, has received assistance from the Larson Recreation Center and Grant County Fire District 5 Station No. 1. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Mice test positive for bird flu in Grant County

MOSES LAKE — Six mice in Grant County have recently tested positive for avian influenza, also known as the bird flu, according to a statement from the Grant County Health District. “It’s not brand new that we are finding bird flu in mice or other mammals. There have been reports …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

State Route 28 closed for next handful of hours near Winchester

QUINCY – State Route 28 is closed at Winchester due to a fatal collision as of 2:30 p.m. Thursday. The Washington State Patrol is asking travelers to seek alternate routes. “The collision just happened within the last twenty minutes,” WSP Public Information Officer Jeremy Weber said. “I would assume the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Train theft attempted in Warden

WARDEN – On Wednesday night, Bunge, a food producer located in the 1800 block of West First Street, was nearly a victim of train theft, according to Warden Police Department Chief Jeff Gann.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata's annual leaf pick-up set for next week

EPHRATA – Next week, starting Nov. 17, Ephrata residents can have leaves picked up right off the curb of their house.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. CHI to host transportation access event

EPHRATA — The Grant County Coalition for Health Improvement is set to host an event, “Paving the Way: Community Solutions for Transportation Access,” on November 18. This initiative is part of the CHI series, aimed at addressing pressing community issues through public engagement and collaborative efforts.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata schools bolster local food bank efforts

EPHRATA — In a demonstration of community spirit, the Ephrata School District successfully gathered nearly 750 pounds of food for the Ephrata Food Bank during their recent food drive, coinciding with conference week. The initiative, which engaged students, staff, and families alike, is part of the district's ongoing commitment to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

MLSD, union agree to enter mediation

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has requested mediation to advance ongoing contract negotiations with the Moses Lake Education Association, the union representing non-administrative certificated staff. The MLEA has agreed to partake in the mediation process, which is facilitated by a neutral mediator from the Public Employment Relations …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

Court ruling releases SNAP benefits for Washingtonians

OLYMPIA – Following a federal court ruling requiring the U.S. Department of Agriculture to fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, hundreds of thousands of Washington residents are receiving their overdue food assistance benefits for November. This development comes after a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to cease withholding …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 2 DAYS AGO

Counting down the days until Ephrata Cabaret

EPHRATA — As the curtain rises for yet another season of the highly anticipated “Cabaret,” the Ephrata High School community is buzzing with excitement. This year, under the direction of long-time music educator Tim O'Donnell, approximately 90 students have come together to create a unique performance that promises to entertain …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

WA leaders express support for veterans

MOSES LAKE — In communities across Washington State, veterans are receiving heartfelt recognition for their service today. This day is not only an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices of our nation’s servicemen and women but also a time to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them in their transition to civilian …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

Gas prices decline statewide, locally

MOSES LAKE — The average fuel prices have dropped in Grant and Adams counties and statewide in Washington. However, the national average price saw a slight increase this week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

MLSD settles with Absher Construction on Vanguard project

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has reached a conclusive settlement agreement with Absher Construction Company, effectively closing out all remaining contractual obligations related to the construction of Vanguard Academy. This resolution was officially accepted by the MLSD Board of Directors during their regular meeting on November 6, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

Adopt this rare phenomenon

OTHELLO – Eclipse, named after the scientific phenomenon of the moon covering the sun, promises to bring light to even the darkest days. She is a small domestic short hair whose blue eyes could make anyone become a cat person. She is a sweet girl who loves cuddling and showing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO

Soap Lake Creative District asks for new signage

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Creative District asked the Soap Lake City Council to consider an Washington State Arts Commission grant application and matched fund assistance for new wayfinding signage throughout the district. The council unanimously decided to move forward by creating a memorandum of understanding and looking at …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 5 DAYS AGO

Warden general election update

WARDEN – Most of the Warden races this year were unopposed, except Warden School board position number five between Shawn Clausen and Ryan Arredondo. As of the Nov. 5 ballot counts, Clausen is in the lead with 153 votes. Arredondo has 36 votes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 6 DAYS AGO

Ephrata general election update

EPHRATA – Ephrata voters had nine candidates and the Columbia Basin Hospital Bond to vote upon during the general election. Of those races, seven of them were candidates who ran unopposed.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake general election update

SOAP LAKE – As of Wednesday at 5 p.m., both Soap Lake Council members Andrew Arnold and Kayleen Bryson have been re-elected by voters, both running unopposed. Rebecca Leavell is leading in the Soap Lake school board position five. The Soap Lake mayoral race is still too close to call. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata hospital bond fails with voters for second time

EPHRATA – Columbia Basin Hospital ran its $30 million bond proposition for a second time during the general election. The proposition as of 8 p.m. Nov. 4 ballot count has been rejected with about 1,100 votes, or nearly 56% of voters against it. Around 44%, or almost 830 people voted …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata water tower 20% full

EPHRATA – On Tuesday, the City of Ephrata began filling its new water tower after completing disinfection and pressure testing. As of Wednesday, the tower is 20% full, with mandated testing beginning. The tower, if results come back clean, will be filled the rest of the way and operational by …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

Oliver voted in as Ephrata mayor-elect

EPHRATA — The initial Nov. 4 ballot count shows Steve Oliver winning the Ephrata Mayoral election with 630 votes, or nearly 55% of the vote. Incumbent Bruce Reim had 516 votes, or about 45% of the vote. The election will be certified on Nov. 20.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

Minions, sharks and superheroes take over downtown Ephrata

EPHRATA – Every October, the charming town of Ephrata transforms into a whimsical wonderland, drawing in hundreds of families for the annual Trick or Treat event. The quaint downtown area, lined with vibrant autumn leaves, becomes a bustling hub of excitement as children dressed as superheroes, princesses, and various creatures …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO

Othello Food Bank faces capacity challenges amid increased demand

OTHELLO – The Othello Food Bank, a cornerstone of food security in Adams County, continues to serve the community with dedication, despite facing capacity challenges. Executive Director Jose Garza emphasizes the importance of partnerships and community donations, as their capacity to store and distribute food is stretched thin. “The key …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Groff Elementary renovations underway

MOSES LAKE – The ongoing renovation of Groff Elementary School is making significant strides, as the Moses Lake School District takes measures to rectify construction deficiencies within the building, according to Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon. The district has been actively removing elements that pose safety concerns, including the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

GCSO to purchase new drug detection K-9

EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is currently in the process of purchasing a drug detection K-9 for use both inside the Grant County Jail and for deployment into the field. "The addition of a drug detection K-9 not only adds safety for inmates and jail employees but also …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

General election ballots due today

MOSES LAKE – Today is the final day to vote in the 2025 General Election. Ballots are due by 8 p.m. today.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Moses Lake food bank in need of donations

MOSES LAKE – The Community Services of Moses Lake is gearing up for the next holiday season while also preparing for uncertainty at the federal level.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Gas prices down slightly in Grant, but up in Adams

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices have dropped for the second week in a row in Washington, Grant County and nationally. However, Adams County saw a slight increase in fuel prices.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Halloween Spirit at the Monroe House

Halloween Spirit at the Monroe House

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Soap Lake council makes allegations against mayor

SOAP LAKE — On Oct. 15, at the regular council meeting, several Soap Lake City Council members made allegations against Mayor Peter Sharp of unlawful recording in city buildings, including the Soap Lake Police Station, Soap Lake City Hall and the Soap Lake Tourism Center, sending an inappropriate email to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata’s Employee of the Year: Will Koziol receives Pillars of Excellence Award

EPHRATA — Will Koziol, a member of the City of Ephrata’s Public Works Department, has been honored with the prestigious Pillars of Excellence award, recognizing him as Employee of the Year. With three years of service to the city, Koziol has made significant contributions to the community and earned the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Warden City Council reviews preliminary 2026 budget

WARDEN — The Warden City Council held its preliminary budget review Tuesday night. The presentation was strictly informational with action to be taken by council at upcoming meetings. The city must pass its budget by the end of the 2025 fiscal year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Ephrata SD moves forward on $75M bond election

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District Facility Study Group proposed a $75 million bond to the Ephrata School Board Monday night. The board unanimously approved Superintendent Ken Murray to move forward with a bond resolution for the board to vote on. If passed by the board, the bond will appear …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Ephrata Food Bank faces growing needs amid uncertainty

EPHRATA – As local food banks brace for potential increases in demand, Phyllis Fuglie, Director of the Ephrata Food Bank, is reaching out to the community for assistance. Fuglie outlined the pressing needs of the food bank as it strives to serve families amid changing federal support for low-income households.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

Conflict arises over Purple Sage Meadows Development

SOAP LAKE — A dispute is unfolding between North Pacific Investments, Inc. and the City of Soap Lake over the proposed Purple Sage Meadows housing development, a project supporters say would deliver 232 affordable homes over the next five years and contribute to the town’s economy.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

MLSD hosting bullying town hall today

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is inviting community members to participate in a town hall meeting focused on addressing bullying and its prevention on Oct. 29. The event will take place at the Learning Services Center and is designed to foster open dialogue between district leadership and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO

COLUMN: Experiencing dementia: my simulated journey to better understanding

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a unique and thought-provoking simulation designed to help participants experience the challenges faced by individuals living with dementia at the Monroe House in Moses Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Fire season officially ends in Washington

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fire season has officially come to a close as of Monday, according to Department of Natural Resources Communications Manager Ryan Rodruck.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Fuel costs slightly down from last week

MOSES LAKE – Washington state, Grant County and Adams County all saw decreases in average prices for regular fuel this week. However, the national average for fuel saw a slight increase, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Nurturing seed potatoes in Walla Walla

WALLA WALLA — Located near Walla Walla, Frog Hollow Farm has carved a niche for itself in the agricultural community through its specialization in seed potatoes. The farm’s owners have worked to establish themselves as authorities on the diversity of potato varieties and the importance of choosing the right seeds …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Geothermal, academic complex building in progress at CWU

ELLENSBURG — Central Washington University is enhancing its campus infrastructure with the construction of the new North Academic Complex. Spanning 108,000 square feet, this building is expected to serve as a hub for social sciences, housing general classrooms, an auditorium and dedicated spaces for the Law and Justice program, slated …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata School Board to consider potential bond Monday

EPHRATA – At the regular school board meeting Monday, the board will receive a presentation from the Facility Study Group for the board to consider placing a $75 million bond on the Feb. 2026 ballot.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

MLEA meeting addresses MLSD General Fund

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Education Association invited Washington Education Association Finance and Compensation Analyst Courtney Ramirez to explain the Moses Lake School District budget.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata PD returning to new blotter system

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Police Department is unable to export a police blotter, according to EPD Records Manager Elizabeth Judkins.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Soap Lake reviews preliminary budget

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council held a budget workshop Saturday to go over the preliminary 2026 budget. No action was taken on the budget. Soap Lake Finance Director Jeff Balentine discussed each of the funds and what he has planned so far.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata Mayoral Candidate Steve Oliver

EPHRATA – As the residents in Ephrata begin to submit their votes for the Ephrata mayoral election, Steve Oliver, a long-time local business owner and community advocate, said he is poised to bring change to the city he has called home for 25 years.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata Mayoral Candidate Bruce Reim

EPHRATA – As residents in Ephrata begin to fill out ballots, incumbent Bruce Reim is eager to share what he has learned during his campaign and outline his vision for the city’s future.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

A journey of resilience

MOSES LAKE – In the heart of Moses Lake, Washington, Rebecca Moore faces life anew after a challenging battle with breast cancer. With unwavering strength, she recounts her journey, emphasizing the importance of hope, community, and self-discovery amid adversity. Rebecca’s diagnosis came unexpectedly on August 1, 2023, just months after …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

Community urged to take precautions against package thefts

OTHELLO – With the holiday season fast approaching, the Othello Police Department is increasing awareness about package thefts that have recently plagued the community. In a bid to prevent residents from becoming victims of these crimes, Police Chief Dave Rehaume said residents should be mindful and cautious when having packages …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO

MLEA pickets for a fair contract outside of MLHS

MOSES LAKE – Teachers and supporters gathered Tuesday afternoon outside Moses Lake High School, voicing frustrations over stalled contract negotiations with the Moses Lake School District. It is a continuation of ongoing negotiations that have the Moses Lake Educators Association without a contract since June, intensifying calls for fair treatment …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

WA faces health coverage issues if enhanced Premium Tax Credit lapses

OLYMPIA — Washingtonians could face a significant increase in their health insurance premiums as the Enhanced Premium Tax Credit, ePTC, is set to expire at the end of 2025, unless action is taken by Congress. The issue is a significant talking point for both parties as the federal government shutdown …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

City of Soap Lake is paying off $11M-plus in loans, interest

SOAP LAKE – The City of Soap Lake will have nearly $11.36 million worth of debt service payments to pay off by the end of 2025. Of that, around $3 million is interest the city has collected over the years, according to Finance Director Jeff Balentine. The city is paying …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

WA fuel prices third highest nationally

MOSES LAKE – After a month-long reign as the second-most expensive state to purchase fuel in, Washington’s fuel prices have dropped below Hawaii’s.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD’s Lewis addresses levy promises, elementary start time

MOSES LAKE — Tensions continue between the Moses Lake School District and the Moses Lake Educators Association as discussions continue over a modified elementary school schedule and the restoration of educational programs critical to student learning.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

Voting begins today in WA

OLYMPIA — The voting period for Washington State’s General Election officially commences today, offering residents the opportunity to participate in shaping their local government. “Elections that are accessible, secure, and transparent are the cornerstone of our democracy, providing you with the opportunity to make your voice heard on a variety …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata’s new code enforcement officer focused on standards

EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata hired Ioan Horvat as the new code enforcement and building inspector. Horvat says he aims to bolster the city’s municipal standards and enhance the quality of life for Ephrata residents. “I’ve been working for the last 20 years, mostly in construction and construction management. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata Middle installs inclusive playground

EPHRATA — Ephrata Middle School has completed installation of a new, inclusive playground designed to enhance outdoor playtime and learning opportunities for all students.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD superintendent to address community concerns

MOSES LAKE — Superintendent Carol Lewis is planning to address the entire Moses Lake community at tonight’s Moses Lake School Board meeting about recent misunderstandings during the superintendent's report.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

Warden raises levy collection by 1%

WARDEN — The Warden City Council unanimously approved an increase in the City of Warden’s levy at the Oct. 14 regular council meeting. This will bring around $6,860 to the city.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

WA use of force database publishes first report

MOSES LAKE – In a shift towards greater transparency in law enforcement, Washington State has implemented an incident-based police use-of-force reporting system known as the Washington State Data Exchange for Public Safety, or WADEPS. This initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the Attorney General, is the result of collaboration among …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

ArtGarden Pottery casts a spell with 'I Smell Pottery Painting' event

MOSES LAKE – Friday night, ArtGarden Pottery, a ceramics studio owned by Laura Mayer, transformed into a whimsical world of witches, paint and creativity as it hosted the first of two “I Smell Pottery Painting” events in celebration of Halloween.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 2 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake man arrested for domestic violence

MOSES LAKE – A Moses Lake man was arrested Sunday morning after Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies answered a call about a domestic violence incident in the 1000 block of Vandenburg Loop. The victims’ nine-year-old child went to a neighbor for assistance. The neighbor called 911, according to the probable …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Community rallies for boat fire victims with fundraiser at U Rock Ranch

WARDEN — After a devastating boat fire in July left five people injured, including two young children, the Grant County community is coming together to support the victims with a benefit dinner, dance, and auction at U Rock Ranch on Saturday, Oct. 18.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

WA fuel prices remain second highest nationally

MOSES LAKE – For a full month, Washington has the second-highest average fuel price in the nation at $4.48, a four-cent decrease from last week. California, the only state in the nation with higher prices, is sitting at $4.66, according to AAA. Hawaii is the third most expensive at $4.46.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

ACPR spotlight: Adoptable pets ready for new homes

OTHELLO – Adams County Pet Rescue has a lively assortment of adoptees waiting for their forever homes, featuring an array of feline friends and canine companions.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Coulee Dam teacher arrested in underage sting operation

COULEE DAM — Ross Ashenfelter, a 42-year-old fourth-grade teacher at Lake Roosevelt Elementary School, was arrested Monday during a sting operation targeting online predators.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Othello PD seeks public’s help in identifying package theft suspect

OTHELLO — The Othello Police Department is asking for the community’s assistance in identifying a suspect believed to be involved in a string of package thefts across several neighborhoods in the city.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake first graders spent the day at the “farm”

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake first graders had the opportunity to go out to the Grant County Fairgrounds Wednesday for First Grade Farm Day at the Grant County Fairgrounds. The Moses Lake High School Agriculture program and the Moses Lake Future Farmers of America organized the event. The groups worked …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Bird flu detected in Moses Lake commercial facility

MOSES LAKE — The Washington State Department of Agriculture confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a large commercial poultry facility in Moses Lake, marking the first instance of avian influenza in Grant County. The announcement was made on October 10, 2025, following …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

150-plus acres burn north of Othello, west of Warden

WARDEN – At around 5 p.m. it was announced that there was a fire in the 12000 block of Seeps Lake Road in Grant County. The fire started at around 10 to 15 acres and quickly spread to 137 acres.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Meet the Ephrata mayoral candidates

EPHRATA – Ephrata Mayoral Candidates met at Pita Pit Wednesday night to meet with constituents and give speeches on their plans if elected as mayor. Both incumbent Bruce Reim and candidate Steve Oliver said the event was a success.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake to sell off Open Doors Sleep Center units

MOSES LAKE – The City of Moses Lake is set to sell off units formerly used at the Open Doors Sleep Center from Oct. 14 to Oct. 17. The sale aims to repurpose the prebuilt gable-style sheds that have remained unused since the center closed on June 30.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Oct. 9, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The two largest fires in the state, the Lower Sugarloaf Fire and the Labor Mountain Fire both had growth in acreage and containment this week. The Lower Sugarloaf fire grew nearly 2,000 acres from Tuesday bringing the blaze up to about 43,000 acres. However, containment also went …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Water tower project progresses despite setbacks

EPRHATA — The construction of the new water tower in Ephrata, which is part of a larger infrastructure improvement project, is making significant progress, according to Ray Towry, the city administrator. Despite some unforeseen challenges, the expectations remain optimistic for the completion of the project.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

New playground coming to Ephrata’s Lions Park

EPHRATA — Residents of Ephrata can look forward to changes at Lions Park as the local Parks and Recreation Department prepares to renovate the playground with a new structure aimed at enhancing recreation opportunities for children of various age groups.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Meet the Ephrata mayoral candidates today

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Chamber of Commerce will host a mayoral candidate meet-and-greet Wednesday at 5 p.m. at Pita Pit. Both incumbent Bruce Reim and candidate Steve Oliver will be present and answering questions the chamber has put together.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

WA Congressional delegates respond to shutdown

WASHINGTON D.C. – A government shutdown began at midnight on October 1, 2025, after Congress was unable to pass a new budget bill or continuing resolution before deadline. The shutdown has cast a shadow over various sectors in Washington State, with potential implications for farmers, small businesses and public health. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake celebrates official designation of Creative District

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake community gathered Saturday to mark a significant milestone: the establishment of the Soap Lake Creative District. After years of dedication and collaboration, local leaders, artists, and residents celebrated the district’s official certification, which promises to enrich the city’s cultural landscape and promote its creative …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

Three positions open for Grant County Board of Health

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Health District is looking for applicants to fill three open seats on the Grant County Board of Health.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

WA fuel prices hold steady as second most expensive in nation

MOSES LAKE – For the third week in a row, Washington has the second highest average fuel prices in the nation at $4.52, a four-cent decrease from last week. California, the only state in the nation with higher prices, is sitting at $4.66, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Oct. 8, 2025

MOSES LAKE — The fire season is starting to come to an end in Washington, according to Department of Natural Resources Communications Manager Ryan Rodruck. “We're certainly winding down the season,” Rodruck said. “I would say that for Western Washington, we have seen that season-ending precipitation at this point. I …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

Long-term GCAO residents still hope for homes

MOSES LAKE – For many furry friends, a forever home can often feel like a distant dream. At the Grant County Animal Outreach, three dogs have taken up residence longer than others, waiting patiently for their chance to find loving families.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLSD board passes resolution on sex-ed

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District Board passed resolution 2026-02 about sexual education at the Oct. 2 meeting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

150-acre fire burns near SR 17

SOAP LAKE — At around 2 p.m. firefighters were called to a brush fire around milepost 81 on state Route 17 at the south end of Lake Lenore. “Heavy sage brush and dry lands fueled the fire,” Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said. The fire quickly …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Oct. 7, 2025

MOSES LAKE — The fire season is starting to come to an end in Washington, according to Department of Natural Resources Communications Manager Ryan Rodruck. “We’re certainly winding down the season,” Rodruck said. “I would say that for western Washington, we have seen that season-ending precipitation at this point. I …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLEA protests for contract negotiations adding back elementary programming

MOSES LAKE – Members of the Moses Lake Educators Alliance, Wenatchee School District employees and residents picketed before Thursday evening’s school board meeting. The group of over 200 chanted down Yonezawa Boulevard, in front of CB Tech, asking for the reinstatement of an additional 30 minutes of instructional time in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 4 WEEKS AGO

SLPD investigating GCSO corrections deputy for assault

SOAP LAKE – An off-duty Grant County Sheriff’s Office corrections deputy Nickolas Eifert was arrested for a fourth-degree assault – domestic violence charge, according to Soap Lake Police Department Chief Patrick Canady.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Oct. 3, 2025

MOSES LAKE — Three larger fires were mostly contained this week with no further updates to be provided. There are around 132,000 acres actively burning in Washington as of Thursday afternoon, around 35,000 fewer than Monday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata school board welcomes new staff, discusses enrollment

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board convened on September 29, for a regular meeting that showcased developments in the district, including the introduction of new certificated staff members, an update on student enrollment and recognition of community support.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Off-duty GCSO officer arrested for domestic violence

SOAP LAKE – An off-duty member of Grant County Sheriff’s Office was arrested for a domestic violence incident, according to a statement from GCSO. The officer’s identity was not initially released, but was later reported by GCSO as Corrections Deputy Nickolas Eifert.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

MLSD suing Fowler over alleged Groff deficiencies

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced earlier this year it would be pursuing litigation with Fowler General Construction, the company that built Groff Elementary School, and a third-party guarantor, Western Surety Company. The district claims there were defects, misrepresentations, and concealment associated with the project, according to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Coulee City man arrested after alleged gun threats

COULEE CITY — On Tuesday night, a 70-year-old Coulee City man reportedly threatened five people with a handgun, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Tuesday’s MLSD gun threat found to be false

MOSES LAKE – Tuesday afternoon, Moses Lake School District middle school cross country athletes told the police they had been threatened by a man with a gun while on a training run, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department. An investigation has found those claims to be …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

EPHRATA MAYOR: Oliver vs. Reim

EPHRATA – Two candidates are running for the job of Ephrata Mayor, Steve Oliver and incumbent Bruce Reim. Both were sent identical questions, with a 150-word limit.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Columbia Basin Hospital reintroduces $30 million bond proposal

EPHRATA — Columbia Basin Hospital is once again submitting to the community a $30 million bond proposition aimed at expanding its facilities and services. The bond will go before voters in the November general election. The bond was rejected during the primary election, with around 46% of voters in favor. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry to host volunteer work party

SOAP LAKE — Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry is inviting community members to join a volunteer work party on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to dusk. The event aims to prepare the facility for the upcoming winter season, and food and drinks will be provided for all volunteers. Interested …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

MLSD cross country students threatened with firearm

MOSES LAKE — Frontier and Endeavor middle school cross country students were approached by a vehicle whose occupants threatened them with a firearm Tuesday afternoon, according to Moses Lake School District Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon. “As we understand, law enforcement is actively investigating and nothing has been completely …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

WA fuel prices still second-highest in nation

MOSES LAKE — For the second week in a row, Washington has the second-highest average fuel prices in the nation at $4.56 per gallon, an eight-cent decrease from last week. California, the only state in the nation with higher prices, is sitting at $4.66, according to AAA. “Pacific Northwest drivers …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Port of Ephrata to host aerial applicators fly-in

EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata will serve as the venue for the third annual fly-in pancake breakfast, hosted by the Association of Washington Aerial Applicators, on Saturday, Oct. 4. This event is set to showcase the role aerial applicators play in Washington’s agricultural industry while offering community members an …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Diesel storage tank fire near George

GEORGE – At around 11 a.m. Grant County Fire District 3 was dispatched to a 4,000 gallon above ground diesel storage fire at Williamson Precision, according to Grant County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman. The fire, located in the 3500 block of Adams Rd. S.W., was out by …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Local legislators to present at Ephrata City Council

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council is set to host an open house featuring a state senator and two state representatives, all local Republicans, on Oct. 1.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO

Woman, 82, found in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — At around 12 p.m. Friday, Grant County Sheriff's Office received a call that a body had been found by a fisherman in Moses Lake - the body of water - near the 7000 block of Dune Lake Road.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Body found in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — At around 2:00 p.m. Grant County Sheriff's Office received a call that a body had been found in Moses Lake near the 7000 block of Dune Lake Road. Sheriff’s deputies are on scene. There will be more updates as information is released to the public.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Veterans support fair set for Saturday

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Veteran Advisory Board is hosting its annual Veteran Resource and Job Fair on September 27th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grant County Fairgrounds' Commercial and 4-H Buildings. This long-standing event, which has been a staple of community service for nearly 20 …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

FIRE REPORT: Sept. 26, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The fires below are burning nearly 139,000 acres across Washington as of Thursday afternoon. This is around 9,000 acres more than Monday and 29,000 more acres than last Thursday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata rebrands with new logo, website and app

EPHRATA – A rebranding initiative reflecting the evolution of the City of Ephrata is officially underway, with a new logo, a redesigned website, and an upgraded mobile app set to launch on Thursday. This overhaul signifies not just a visual update, but also a forward-thinking commitment to community engagement and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Port of Ephrata launches car rental services

EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata has officially launched a rental car service in a move that aims to enhance airport services and stimulate local economic growth. Executive Director Dave Lanman announced that the port has partnered with Hertz to provide rental cars on-site, a service that is expected to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Yakama Nation Farms: Celebrating the growth of food, culture

WAPATO – Yakama Nation Farms, a 1,500- acre agricultural enterprise located in the heart of Washington’s Yakima Valley, operates with the mission of fortifying food sovereignty and security for the local community while embracing a rich cultural heritage. Under the interim leadership of Jonalee Squeochs, the farm has transformed from …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Teachers address MLSD elementary schedules, activities

MOSES LAKE – At the Moses Lake School District Board meeting on September 18, concerns were brought to the board from district staff and community members regarding lingering reductions in elementary school schedules and the implications for student learning, particularly in areas such as physical education, music, library access and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

WA fuel prices second highest in nation

MOSES LAKE – Last week, Washington led the nation with the highest fuel prices, beating both California and Hawaii. These states have traditionally led the charts this year, according to AAA. This week, California is once again leading the nation at $4.67 with Washington close behind at $4.62, or a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

FIRE AND AIR QUALITY REPORT: Sept. 23, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The fires below have burned nearly 130,000 acres combined across Washington as of Monday afternoon. This is around 20,000 acres more than Thursday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD holding steady in standardized testing

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board met Sept. 18 to discuss recent state and local test scores in the district. Both the SMARTER Balance Assessment and the science assessment are done at the state level. The district does local testing called iReady to see if students are at …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata releases findings following water leak incident

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata released an after-action review following a significant water leak incident that occurred Sept. 1. The leak, which was detected in the early morning hours, prompted a week-long precautionary boil water advisory for residents. The review was an analysis of what transpired, highlighting both successes …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

WDFW takes over Beezley Hills Preserve

EPHRATA – In a move for conservation efforts in Washington State, the Nature Conservancy has transferred ownership of the 9,000-acre Beezley Hills Preserve to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The goal is to bolster habitat conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species such as the Columbia Basin pygmy rabbit, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLPD stops alleged drug shipment in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – On Friday, Moses Lake Street Crimes intercepted an alleged shipment of drugs traveling through Moses Lake, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department. At around 3 a.m. Friday, the Moses Lake Tactical Response Team initiated a vehicle takedown of a subject in the Winco …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Warden welcomes new police chief: Jeff Gann

WARDEN – The Warden Police Department has a new leader, Chief Jeff Gann, an officer with nearly two decades of law enforcement experience. Gann started his job Monday and will be officially sworn in by the mayor during the Sept. 23 regular council meeting. Following a career at the Castle …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Sept. 19, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The fires below are burning nearly 111,000 acres across Washington as of Thursday afternoon. This is around 11,000 acres more than Monday. The two fires that showed the most growth were the Lower Sugarloaf Fire, gaining around 3,000 acres since Monday. It remains as the second largest …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake council addresses creative district, city position and dog park

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council met Thursday to discuss appointing a mayor pro tempore and to receive updates from city officers and committees.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Crews extinguish small fire in rural Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – Grant County Fire Districts 5, 7, and 12 were called to a brush/structure fire in the 5000 block of Highland Drive in rural Moses Lake at around 1:30 p.m. Thursday. “What was thought to be a manufactured home, we think was more likely just a collection of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata’s new booster pump station finished

EPHRATA — City officials announced Wednesday that the long-awaited Booster Pump Station located at B Street and Division is now operational. This is part of a comprehensive water system improvement initiative, which also includes enhancements to the city’s water tower infrastructure.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Sept. 16, 2025

MOSES LAKE – Last week, the Chelan County Commissioners declared a State of Emergency for the Lower Sugarloaf and Pomas Fires which are burning around 20,000 acres. There are several level one “Be Ready,” level two, “Get Set,” and level three “Go” evacuations in the county. As a result, the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Washington fuel prices highest nationwide

MOSES LAKE – For the first time this year, gas prices in Washington are the highest in the nation with the state bypassing both California and Hawaii’s average fuel prices, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Shots fired suspect in Moses Lake turns himself in

MOSES LAKE – On the evening of Sept. 6, it was reported that shots were fired at 1842 West Broadway Avenue, according to Moses Lake Police Department.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Power outages affect hundreds in Moses Lake and Ephrata on Sunday

MOSES LAKE – On Sunday morning at around 10 a.m., Grant Public Utility District announced there was a power outage affecting nearly 300 customers in the Ephrata and Winchester area. An outage later in the day impacted more than 700 residences on the Moses Lake peninsula later in the day.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

GCSO announces new emergency notification number

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has announced a change in the phone number used for its emergency alert system, Everbridge. Residents will now receive calls from 509-260-3440, a Cle Elum phone number.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Sept. 12, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The fires below are burning around 91,400 acres across Washington as of Thursday afternoon. The blazes were causing air quality concerns regionally.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden to get new police chief, approves updating planning documents

WARDEN – The Warden City Council met Tuesday to discuss the hiring of a new Warden Police Department Chief, acknowledge the clerk-treasurer assistant, receive updates on city projects, approve adding a climate element to the comprehensive plan and approve the development of a planning document for the wastewater facility and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Jail construction on schedule for summer 2026 opening

EPHRATA — Construction of the new Grant County Jail is progressing rapidly, with Chief Deputy of Corrections Phillip Coats of the Grant County Sheriff’s Office expressing optimism about the facility’s completion. The new jail will comprehensively address the current needs of inmates, staff, and the community, with several innovative solutions …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata school bus driver takes passengers personally

EPHRATA — Brenda Wurl has become a beloved fixture within the Ephrata School District as a bus driver, where her enthusiasm for children and dedication to safety has set a high standard within the community, according to the Transportation Director Adam Roduner. “Brenda, our longest-serving driver, is a wonderful example …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

EXPLAINER: Funding libraries in North Central Washington

MOSES LAKE – The North Central Washington Libraries operate under a unique funding model reliant on local taxpayer dollars, primarily property tax revenue. NCW Libraries runs 30 branches in five counties.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata PD officer stops theft of nearly $600,000

EPHRATA – In early June, a call was made by Grant County Public Works to the Ephrata Police Department for a theft through deception of three checks totaling nearly $600,000. Ephrata PD Officer Zach Smith, who has been with the department for nearly five years, responded to the call and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Groff repairs on schedule, campus to reopen 2026-27

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School District Superintendent Carol Lewis told the MLSD Board of Directors Thursday that Groff Elementary will open back up for the 2026-27 school year. While physical construction just began, assessments have been completed to ensure the campus’s deficiencies are addressed. “There's not a whole bunch …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake man convicted in child pornography case

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man was convicted last week of possessing child pornography, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Michael Boyer, 69, was convicted in Grant County Superior Court on four counts of first-degree possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices saw increase in WA, Grant Co. and nationally

MOSES LAKE — There were slight increases to average gas prices in Grant County, Washington and nationwide this week, according to AAA. Adams County saw a slight decline in prices. “Most of the nation’s 50 states saw gas prices rise over the last week, while some Great Lakes states saw …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Nearly 80,500 acres burning in WA on Monday

MOSES LAKE — Washington’s fire season is heating up with nearly 80,500 acres burning across the state as of Monday. “Part of the reason that you are seeing a lot of those large fires on the landscape is because we had several lightning storms that moved through during red flag …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake updates Smokiam fee schedule

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council updated the fees for Smokiam Campground and allowed for future changes to be done by resolution instead of changing the city code.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake council receives community updates

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council met Thursday and got updates from Soap Lake Police Department, Grant County Fire District 7, Public Works, Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce, Soap Lake Creative District, Lake Liaison Committee and the Soap Lake Prevention Coalition.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

WAHLUKE SCHOOL DISTRICT DIRECTOR: Candidates Q&A

MATTAWA – There are two candidates running for the Wahluke School District Director District 5 position. The candidates are Elia Mendoza and board president and incumbent Luke Jenne.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Brush fire engulfs house in Ephrata

EPHRATA – There was a report made of a brush fire in the 2200 block of Basin Street in Ephrata at around 12 p.m. Thursday, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman. When crews arrived on scene, it was discovered that there was a house involved …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata boil advisory lifted

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata has officially lifted its boil advisory after the water sample testing came back negative for contaminants, according to City Administrator Ray Towry. “We apologize for the inconvenience,” Towry said. “We understand the stress that it puts on people and local businesses.”

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata wastewater plant recognized by DOE

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata’s Water Reclamation Facility was recognized by the Department of Ecology for outstanding performance in 2024. The city received a letter from DOE Water Quality Program Manager Joe Kenning on Aug. 20.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Roundabout near Ephrata complete days early

EPHRATA — The new roundabout at the intersection of Nat Washington Way and State Route 282 is officially open, marking the end of a detour that has been in place for several weeks. The project was completed 8–9 days ahead of schedule, according to Grant County Central Services.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata boil advisory still in effect

EPHRATA – Ephrata remains on a boil advisory as it waits for test results to return from Pasco after a broken pipe led to a low pressure situation that requires testing under state health codes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

SOAP LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT POS. 5 Q&A: Leavell vs. Novik

SOAP LAKE – There are two candidates running for the Soap Lake School District Director position 5 role. The candidates are Rebecca Leavell and Mark Novick. Both candidates were given the questions below and given identical deadlines and word count restrictions for their answers.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

GCFD 8 commissioner candidates discuss visions for future

MATTAWA – A candidate forum for the upcoming fire commissioner election for Grant County Fire District 8 was held at Wahluke High School on August 28. The forum included two candidates running for the fire commissioner seats, Josh Seanard and Richard “Dick” Jenkin, both of whom are running unopposed for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

WARDEN SCHOOL BOARD: Candidate Q&A

WARDEN – There are two candidates running for the Warden School District Director District 5 position. These candidates are incumbent Shawn Clausen and candidate Ryan Arredondo. Both candidates were given the questions below and given identical deadlines and word count restrictions for their answers.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Leitz discusses challenges, future of Port District 3

MATTAWA – Matthus Leitz, the unopposed candidate for the Grant County Port District 3 Port Commissioner position 2 seat, shared his vision for the local economy and community development during a candidate forum held at Wahluke High School on Thursday evening. Leitz, who was born and raised in the area, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Celebrating all things Warden

WARDEN — The annual Warden Community Days kicked off this past weekend, drawing crowds for a series of events celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. As the Labor Day festivities unfolded, residents gathered to enjoy activities ranging from a vibrant parade to an inflatable costume race, marking the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Wahluke School District Board candidates discuss future goals

MATTAWA – A forum was held on August 28 at Wahluke High School, bringing together the three candidates for the Wahluke School Board: Luke Jenne, Elia Mendoza and Nick Trejo. Incumbents Jenne and Trejo are seeking re-election, while Mendoza is challenging Jenne for Director Position 5.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata boil notice to extend at least to Thursday

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata has issued a boil advisory for residents after a water line leak was discovered Monday near the old juvenile detention building. “They are currently grabbing the samples for the test results right now,” City Clerk Katie Kapalo said Tuesday morning. “They're going into the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Welcome back Tigers

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District kicked off the 2024-25 academic year on Aug. 28 with a palpable sense of excitement among students and educators alike. As the first day of school unfolded, school administrators expressed their eagerness to engage with returning students and enhance their educational experience.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices see uptick in Grant Co. and nationally

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices saw a slight increase in Grant County and nationwide; however, Washington and Adams County prices remained stable for the week, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO

FIRE REPORT: AUG. 28, 2025

MOSES LAKE – The fires below were burning and causing smoke and air quality concerns regionally as of Thursday afternoon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD welcomes back most students Wednesday

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District welcomed back first through sixth graders and freshmen for the first day of school Wednesday. The seventh, eighth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth graders return to school Thursday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Audit reveals issues in MLSD '23-24 spending

MOSES LAKE — Findings from a recent audit conducted by the Washington State Auditor's Office and published Aug. 18 have revealed compliance deficiencies within the Moses Lake School District regarding the management of federal funds in 2023-24.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

SOAP LAKE MAYOR: Candidates Q&A

SOAP LAKE – There is one candidate and one write-in candidate for the Soap Lake mayoral race. Incumbent Peter Sharp is the only candidate listed on the ballot. However, Karen Woodhouse is running as a write-in candidate.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

$30M hospital bond to run again in general election

EPHRATA – The Columbia Basin Hospital Board has decided to run its $30 million bond measure on the general ballot in November after it failed in the primary election. Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby during the Aug. 26 meeting said the district needed to work on getting more information out …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Applications open for Community Police Academy

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Police Department is set to host its upcoming Community Police Academy, welcoming community members eager to learn about the inner workings of their local law enforcement agency.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Driver safety a focus as school begins

MOSES LAKE – As schools across the Columbia Basin reopen this week, law enforcement officials are emphasizing the importance of road safety for students, parents and motorists alike. Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman is urging everyone to remain vigilant as the school year begins.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices stable this week

MOSES LAKE – Gas Prices were stable this week with Washington and Grant County average prices remaining the same as last week. Both Adams County and national prices saw a slight uptick, though. Washington fuel prices remain some of the highest in the U.S.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Hay harvest faces challenges in Washington amidst weather woes and market stagnation

KENNEWICK — This season has unfolded with mixed outcomes for hay growers in Washington State, particularly in the Columbia Basin, as they navigate through a landscape marked by challenging weather, weak export demand, crop quality and financial viability.

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD approves transpo upgrades, saves money on personnel

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School board met for a regular meeting Thursday to pass its annual budget, approve several purchases and receive an update on personnel from the superintendent.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Blue-Green algae blooms still present in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Health District issued a water quality warning for North Moses Lake and Lewis Horn for blue-green algae.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD approves balanced $144.6M budget for 2025–26

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board unanimously approved a balanced budget for the 2025–26 school year during its regular meeting Thursday evening. The $144.6 million budget matches projected revenues with expenditures.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Erick Brittain takes over at GCFD 7

SOAP LAKE – Grant County Fire District 7 has welcomed a new chief, Erick Brittain, who brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for community service, he said. After a distinguished 25-year career as a firefighter-paramedic, Brittain's journey into firefighting began in the mid-1990s with a shift …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Hawk successfully rehabilitated near Quincy

QUINCY – A hawk that was found injured in a yard in rural Quincy has recovered and been released back into the wild thanks to the efforts of Shawna Kluge, President of Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

EPHRATA MAYOR Q&A: Steve Oliver

EPHRATA - Steve Oliver is running for the mayor’s seat in Ephrata against incumbent Mayor Bruce Reim. Both Oliver and Reim were concurrently presented with the questions below and given identical deadlines and word count restrictions for their answers. Oliver’s responses are below. Both submitted their responses in a timely …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

EPHRATA MAYOR Q&A: Bruce Reim

EPHRATA – Incumbent Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim is running for reelection on the November ballot against challenger Steve Oliver. Both Reim and Oliver were concurrently presented with the questions below and given identical deadlines and word count restrictions for their answers. Reim’s responses are below. Both submitted their responses in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices see slight decrease except for Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE – Washington, Adams County and nationally all saw slight decreases in gas prices this week. Grant County saw slight increases in average fuel prices this week, according to AAA. “The national average is nearly unchanged from a week ago, with gasoline prices continuing to hover in the same …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

GCSO dealt with 49 incidents during Bass Canyon EDM concert

GEORGE – The Gorge Ampitheatre hosted its annual three-day electronic dance music festival, Bass Canyon, over the weekend. The festival security managed by both Grant County Sheriff’s Office and a private security organization had a busy weekend according to Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Surplus multi-season deer and elk tags soon available

OLYMPIA – Deer and elk hunters who applied for a Washington multi-season application earlier this year will have a chance to purchase some of the remaining surplus tags this month. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Tuesday that 2,693 multi-season deer tags and 160 multi-season elk tags will …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

New Wyndham Microtel coming to Ephrata

EPHRATA – Ephrata residents can look forward to additional hospitality options as a new Wyndham Microtel is set to break ground next year. The owners expect to open the doors by June or July 2026. The hotel, which will feature 81 rooms—including 16 suites—will occupy a footprint of nearly 36,000 …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden moves several projects forward

WARDEN – The Warden City Council met for its regular meeting and continued a port annexation process, discussed an update to weed policies and police chief hiring, accepted an application for a Transportation Improvement Board grant and selected a person to serve on the Grant County Homeless Housing Task Force.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

GALLERY: Opening day at Grant County Fair

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Fair began Tuesday with vendors, local artisans, Future Farmers of America students and those who crave the taste of a Space Burger gathering at the Grant County Fairgrounds.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

WA launches online Narcan finder amid rising overdose deaths

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health has unveiled an online tool designed to help residents swiftly locate free naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, including those related to fentanyl. The only place for residents in both Grant and Adams Counties to get free naloxone is the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Fair has local vendors showcasing unique flavors

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Fair kicked off its opening day yesterday at the Grant County Fairgrounds, enveloping the area in a colorful tapestry of local vendors, enticing aromas and the sound of lively chatter. From tacos to tater dogs, this year’s fair brings an eclectic mix of culinary …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices see increases locally, drop nationally

MOSES LAKE – Washington and Grant County both saw slight increases in fuel prices this week. Adams County remained steady and national prices saw slight decreases. “After rising for two straight weeks, the national average price of gasoline saw a slight decline in the last week as oil prices fell …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake welcomes new police chief

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Police Department officially welcomed its new chief, Patrick Canady, who was sworn in at City Hall on Monday morning at 9 a.m. Participating in the ceremony were Sharp and several city officials, who expressed their excitement about Canady's arrival and the fresh perspectives he …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLHS recognized as a "School on the Rise"

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School has been honored as a 2025 "School on the Rise" by the Association of Washington School Principals and the Association of Washington Student Leaders. This recognition highlights the school’s strides in fostering a culture of inclusivity, leadership and student success, according to a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD's new business manager focused on making a difference

MOSES LAKE – Ruby Perez has officially taken the reins as the business manager for the Moses Lake School District. With over a decade of experience in educational finance, Perez said she brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to the community's future. “God gives me a word …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Canady to take the reins of Soap Lake PD

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council convened on Aug. 6, during a regular meeting and hired a new police chief, resulting in a 6-1 vote in favor of hiring long-term Ephrata Police Officer Patrick Canady.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Jail health care exceeds standard, despite inmate’s claim

EPHRATA – The Columbia Basin Herald received a letter from a previous inmate at the Grant County Jail, Wayne Symmonds, who expressed concerns around the medical care he has received alongside concerns that several inmates have died during his stay. “This medical at this jail is no help,” Symmonds wrote. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata works on several city improvement projects

EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata has been busy with a variety of projects this year. Water, sewer and roads have all been areas addressed in 2025. “We finished our street and sewer projects for this year,” City Engineer Shawn O’Brien said. “We'll continue working on street maintenance and sewer …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

100-acre fire in N. Grant County sparked Wednesday

ELECTRIC CITY — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has issued Level 2 “Get Set” evacuation orders for both Electric City and Delano as a wildfire moves through the area as of 3:58 p.m. Wednesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Rock Bottom Rocker in need of support

EPHRATA – The Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry, a local backyard rescue based outside of Soap Lake, has two community events on the horizon – including a pop-up vendor event in August and a large garage sale at the end of September. President Shawna Kluge said she is also in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake man arrested in attempted murder case

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office arrested 27-year-old Luis Angel Ortega Tuesday morning after an what investigators describe as an attempted murder last Friday night. Ortega is lodged in Grant County Jail for suspicion of first-degree assault with a deadly weapon, first-degree robbery, and second-degree attempted murder.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Watershed celebrates another year at the Gorge

GEORGE – Over the weekend, the Gorge Amphitheatre became the ultimate country paradise as the Watershed Music Festival took center stage. With breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge serving as a backdrop, fans flocked to experience an electrifying line-up featuring stars such as Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Bailey Zimmerman …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Second brush fire ignites in Beaumont, 2 acres burnt

MOSES LAKE – A second brush fire ignited Monday evening along Beaumont Avenue, following a weekend blaze in the same area. The latest fire, which burned approximately 2 acres, was reported at 5 p.m. behind the 1600 block of Beaumont Avenue.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

SOAP LAKE MAYOR: Karen Woodhouse

SOAP LAKE — As Soap Lake prepares for its mayoral election in November, City Council Member Karen Woodhouse has officially announced her write-in candidacy. With a history of dedicated civic service and a passion for local advocacy, Woodhouse said, she presents herself as a reliable candidate knowledgeable about the issues …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

SOAP LAKE MAYOR: Peter Sharp

SOAP LAKE — As the current mayor of Soap Lake, Peter Sharp is running to continue as mayor with a vision to keep improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing community infrastructure, he said. Sharp was running unopposed on the November ballot until City Council Member Karen Woodhouse …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices see slight decline Grant, Adams Co.

MOSES LAKE – Fuel prices in both Grant and Adams counties saw a slight decline of one cent each. Washington prices stayed steady for the third week in a row and national prices saw a slight increase.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

2025-26 school year approaching fast

MOSES LAKE – As summer draws to a close, school districts across the Columbia Basin are making final preparations for the upcoming academic year, with many families eagerly anticipating the first day of school. With schedules set and orientations underway, administrators highlight an atmosphere of excitement and readiness.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

WAHLUKE SCHOOL BOARD: Elia Mendoza

MATTAWA — Elia Mendoza, a candidate for the Wahluke School Board, said her background and diverse experiences have helped shape her commitment to enhancing opportunities and fostering community partnerships, if elected to the board. "I have always been dedicated to providing education and technical assistance, whether it is with small …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Primary election ballots due Tuesday

MOSES LAKE – Voting for the primary election is coming to a close Tuesday. For those who would like to vote in the election, ballots need to be postmarked on or before Aug. 5, according to Grant County Auditor Michele Jaderlund.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Basin residents targeted with phone, door-to-door 'PUD' scams

EPHRATA — Franklin Public Utility District and Grant Public Utility District are alerting residents to a surge in phone scams aimed at obtaining personal information. Customers have reported receiving calls from individuals impersonating utility employees, asking for assistance with an "indoor pollution survey." However, authorities confirm that the calls are …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake School District passes balanced budget

SOAP LAKE – With major facility upgrades and full staffing on the horizon, the Soap Lake School District has approved a balanced $12.5 million budget for 2025–26.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata SD passes 2025-26 budget

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District Board of Directors unanimously passed the district's 2025-26 budget at its regular school board meeting Monday. “The process of developing a quality budget that's fiscally responsible, but also responsive to the needs of your staff and your students, is always incredibly challenging, but I …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO

Ending summer school with a splash

WARDEN — The Warden School District celebrated the conclusion of its summer school program with an exciting Field Day, an event designed to showcase the social and emotional growth of students while offering a vibrant finale to six weeks of enriching activities. “Field Day is kind of a big finale …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

GCSO's Kriete elected VP of law enforcement association

EPHRATA — Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete has been elected vice president of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. “I am honored to represent the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs in this new capacity as Vice President,” Kriete said. “I look forward to working alongside my …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Crime declining, drugs climbing locally, statewide

OLYMPIA — In the 2024 Crime in Washington report published by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, released Monday, a noticeable decline in crime rates across various categories was reported. Various police chiefs and Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete said trends found within the report were mostly reflected …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Area nurseries flourish amid challenges

MOSES LAKE — In the heart of the Columbia Basin, two local nurseries, Blue Rouge Garden & Nursery and Seed Cupboard Nursery, are carving out their niche in the competitive marketplace, offering unique plants, tailored services and an engaging atmosphere for gardening enthusiasts.

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Two fires in the Basin over the weekend

WILSON CREEK — Two small fires happened over the weekend, with one fire Saturday on Road O Northeast and Road 30 Northeast between Wilson Creek and Coulee City and another near Sunday near Lind.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices steady this week

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices in Grant and Adams counties, Washington and nationally are identical to last week. “With gasoline demand starting to ease as we head into August, we could see prices gradually decline as we approach Labor Day,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

FIRE REPORT: Burdoin Fire exceeds 10,000 acres, fires contribute to smoke haze

WHITE SALMON – The Burdoin Fire, which ignited on July 18 in the southern border of Washington state, has rapidly consumed more than 11,000 acres and remains only 13% contained as of Thursday afternoon. State officials have called for increased vigilance among residents.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Soap Lake chlorinating water as precautionary measure

SOAP LAKE — The City of Soap Lake has announced that it will implement a temporary chlorination process for its drinking water supply after routine monitoring detected the presence of coliform bacteria in the city’s reservoirs. This emergency disinfection is scheduled to begin Friday, and aims to ensure the continued …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Community comes together for Daniel Alcala’s family following shooting

EPHRATA — In the wake of a shooting incident in Ephrata July 20, the local community is rallying around the family of Daniel Alcala, who was fatally shot during an altercation at a gas pumps. Alcala, 30, was a husband and father to three children. According to the Grant County …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata Library set for major renovations next spring

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Public Library is gearing up for significant renovations aimed at modernizing the facility and enhancing services for its patrons this upcoming spring. “This comprehensive project is an extension of our ongoing branding efforts, and it will be a significant upgrade that brings our spaces up to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata resident arrested for 26 counts of livestock theft

EPHRATA – Last Wednesday, Grant County Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies and Crime Reduction Team deputies acted on a tip from the Washington State Department of Agriculture about individual stealing cattle.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Grant County launches survey for Five-Year Homeless Housing plan update

GRANT COUNTY — The Grant County Board of Commissioners, in partnership with regional stakeholders and LDC, Inc., is leading the development of the Five-Year Homeless Housing Plan Update for the period 2025-2030.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Fire scorches around 10 acres near Wilson Creek

WILSON CREEK – On Monday at around 2 p.m., Grant County Fire District 12 was paged out to a brush fire in the 19000 block of Stratford Road.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata moves forward with grant applications for street improvement

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council convened Wednesday evening during a regular meeting to authorize a resolution to move forward with an application for a grant from the Transportation Improvement Board to fund essential road preservation and enhancements.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake plans upgrades for dog park, Smokiam Campground

SOAP LAKE — In a bid to enhance recreational amenities and boost tourism, the city of Soap Lake is currently undertaking upgrades to both its dog park and the Smokiam Campground. Mayor Peter Sharp elaborated on these enhancements, citing community engagement and improved safety as primary motivators behind the initiatives.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Fuel prices decrease nationally, locally

MOSES LAKE — There was a slight decrease in gas prices across the nation, including in Washington state and Grant County, according to AAA. The Adams County average remains the same as last week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Creative pizza pies

MOSES LAKE — A family-owned establishment, Slices, is carving out an unusual niche in the local dining scene. Co-owners Becky and John Boyer took a leap of faith during the pandemic, transforming their post-COVID uncertainty into a business that celebrates community and culinary creativity, Becky said. "After COVID, we found …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Creative pizza pies

MOSES LAKE — A family-owned establishment, Slices, is carving out an unusual niche in the local dining scene. Co-owners Becky and John Boyer took a leap of faith during the pandemic, transforming their post-COVID uncertainty into a business that celebrates community and culinary creativity, Becky said. "After COVID, we found …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

‘Fresh every day’

MOSES LAKE – As summer arrives in full bloom, the sight of Kallstrom Corn stands dotted throughout the Columbia Basin has returned, marking the beginning of the sweet corn season for locals awaiting the taste of the Kallstrom sweet corn. “The corn crop looks really healthy. It has a nice …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

‘Fresh every day’

MOSES LAKE – As summer arrives in full bloom, the sight of Kallstrom Corn stands dotted throughout the Columbia Basin has returned, marking the beginning of the sweet corn season for locals awaiting the taste of the Kallstrom sweet corn. “The corn crop looks really healthy. It has a nice …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

New principal takes charge at Warden High

WARDEN — Warden High School has welcomed its new principal, Heather Cheek, a seasoned educator with a passion for empowering students and fostering a positive school culture. Cheek, who assumed her role less than a week ago, brings a wealth of experience, having previously taught Spanish and served as an …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata mayoral candidates debate issues

EPHRATA – Ephrata Mayoral candidates came to the Columbia Basin Herald office Monday to talk about their positions on the issues. Incumbent Bruce Reim and opponent Steve Oliver answered questions around transparency, tax burdens, criminal activity and the local economy.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata summer school keeps students learning

EPHRATA — As the summer season wraps up, 190 students in the Ephrata School District are proving learning doesn't cease when the school year ends. The district’s summer school program, now in its final week, drew 136 Kindergarten through sixth-grade students to participate in enriching activities designed to bolster academic …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

5 must listen to podcasts for summer road trips

MOSES LAKE – As summer continues, the season of long road trips, scenic vistas and family vacations beckons once again. With most cars equipped with a Bluetooth connection or a functional auxiliary port, podcasts have emerged as a favored form of entertainment for travelers. They not only serve as a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moose spotted in Ephrata, residents told to exercise caution

EPHRATA —A moose has been spotted wandering through Ephrata and nearby communities over the past few days, drawing the attention of residents and prompting authorities to issue safety reminders regarding wildlife encounters. “The heat is intense, and moose are seeking water sources,” Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Communications Specialist …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD takes preliminary look at 2025-26 finances

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District board held a special meeting Thursday to discuss preliminary budget numbers. “Tonight, we are going to do a fairly high overview of our budgeting process, and then some of the aspects, particularly around our revenue,” Superintendent Carol Lewis said.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Slight decrease in WA, Grant and Adams counties fuel

MOSES LAKE – Washington, Grant and Adams counties saw a slight decrease in average fuel prices this week. However, national prices both saw a slight increase, according to AAA. “With oil prices posting a modest uptick last week, the national average price of gasoline also inched slightly higher, with just …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MOSES LAKE CITY COUNCIL Pos. 5: Joel Graves

MOSES LAKE – Joel Graves is a candidate for Position 5 on the Moses Lake City Council and has a background that encompasses both public service and private industry. Graves said he aims to address the most pressing issues facing Moses Lake, including public safety, affordable housing and economic development. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MOSES LAKE CITY COUNCIL Pos. 5: Jim Perez

MOSES LAKE – In the race for the Moses Lake City Council Position 5, Jim Perez said he's positioning himself as a candidate focused on the community’s future, drawing from his extensive business background and deep-rooted connections to the area, he said. "How I believe I'm prepared for the role …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden to raise trash rates

WARDEN – The Warden City Council unanimously passed a garbage rate increase beginning Sept. 1. “With our contract with Consolidated Disposal Service, who does our sanitation services in the community,” City Admin Kriss Shuler said. “In our contract, we have a biannual adjustment for cost of living, so that cost …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD granted temporary water exemption by city council

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake City Council unanimously passed Ordinance 3071 during its regular meeting Tuesday. The ordinance grants the Moses Lake School District a temporary exemption from citywide irrigation restrictions, allowing district officials to irrigate sports fields as necessary through November 15. "We are grateful to the City …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

FIRE REPORT: Nearly 7,000-acre fire burning near Kettle Falls

KETTLE FALLS – The Hope Fire has burned around 6,800 acres and is uncontained as of Thursday, according to InciWeb. This is the largest fire burning in Washington as of Thursday. “As far as we know, there might be (a) little bit of fire growth going on due to the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

EPHRATA MAYORAL RACE: Bruce Reim

EPHRATA – As the city of Ephrata approaches its upcoming mayoral election, incumbent Bruce Reim seeks to continue his eight-year tenure. He said his extensive experience in government and community activism underlines his commitment to Ephrata, which he believes is transitioning from a small town to a robust city.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

EPHRATA MAYORAL RACE: Steve Oliver

EPHRATA – Candidate Steve Oliver, a long-time local business owner and community advocate, is putting forth his vision to revitalize the city of Ephrata. Oliver, who has owned Tarot Tattoo for 25 years, believes a strong focus on entertainment and infrastructure is essential for the city's growth and sustainability. “I …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

United Way helps Ephrata schools enhance meal program

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District has recently transformed its Summer Meal Program, thanks to a $30,000 donation from the United Way of King County. This funding facilitated the procurement of an Oliver Speedseal MX2-1908E Tray Sealer, which has proven instrumental in improving meal preparation and distribution for the district's …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD celebrates having full new admin team on site

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District celebrated Tuesday after having the full new administrative team in the office. “Well, this is actually the first day that the whole team is here,” Superintendent Carol Lewis said. “Various people have obviously been in and out. What is most exciting is …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD to hold budget meeting Thursday

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is holding a special work study session Thursday to begin discussing the budget for the upcoming school year. “The meeting will be to just give a preview of what the final budget will look like as well as how it is constructed,” …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLSD announces new principal for Knolls Vista

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has announced Jason De Lane as the new principal of Knolls Vista Elementary School, effective Tuesday for the 2025-26 school year. De Lane succeeds Adam Sawyer, who has accepted a leadership position as Assistant Executive Director of Safety and Wellbeing within the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices in Grant rise above Adams for first time this year

MOSES LAKE – Washington and Grant County average gas prices saw an increase this week. However, national and Adams County saw a decrease in fuel prices, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata to purchase former Rite Aid building for municipal use

EPHRATA — In a move to enhance municipal services and meet the growing needs of the community, the Ephrata City Council approved a motion to purchase the former Rite Aid building located at 250 Basin Street. “We are really excited to see what this new space will do for the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake Conservancy meeting highlights challenges for lake health

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Conservancy held a special meeting Saturday to discuss Soap Lake water level trends. The meeting brought in experts from the Washington Department of Ecology, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and Quincy-Columbia Basin Irrigation District. “A couple of years ago, a few of the people in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata's Well 3 returns to service today after water quality tests pass

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata’s Well 3 should be back up and running today, as long as the bacteria test results return from the lab negative, according to Public Works Director Rob Harris. “If water quality and purity and all the required standards, Well Three will be returned into …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Burn restrictions announced prior to July 4 holiday

SPOKANE — The Bureau of Land Management has increased fire restrictions for Eastern Washington starting on the July 4 holiday, citing increased fire danger with hot, dry weather in the region. “Know before you go and be prepared before visiting your public lands this summer,” said Fire Management Officer for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Grand opening of Up Town Art Gallery brings local flair to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – In an enchanting addition to the vibrant cultural fabric of Moses Lake, the Up Town Art Gallery celebrated its grand opening on June 26, inviting art enthusiasts and the local community to immerse themselves in a haven of creativity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

MLSD welcomes three new 2026 buses

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District recently expanded its transportation fleet with the addition of three brand new vehicles, poised to improve both student safety and daily commuting experiences, according to the Transportation Director of Operations Aimee Cook. “I just love seeing new buses out there on the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Increased outdoors fees in effect as of July 1

OLYMPIA — In a controversial decision, Washington State has approved a significant increase in recreational fishing and hunting license fees, which officially took effect yesterday, June 1. “This bill proposes an inflationary adjustment. It’s a significant adjustment, but inflation has been substantial over the last 15 years,” Sen. Marko Liias …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

New fencing enhances safety at Knolls Vista

MOSES LAKE—In an effort to bolster the safety and well-being of students, Knolls Vista Elementary School has completed the installation of a new security fence around its playground. The project, a collaborative endeavor involving local businesses, community members, and school staff, aims to provide a safer environment for students during …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

MLSD signs WIAA contract, asks for amendments

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District signed its 2025-26 membership contract with the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association at the regular school board meeting June 25. However, concerns were brought up about the contract’s language. “It's the standard membership form that the WIAA sends out every year,” MLSD Director …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices see slight decrease this week

MOSES LAKE – There was a slight decrease in fuel prices this week in Washington, nationally and Grant County. Adams County didn’t follow the trend and saw a slight increase in prices this week compared to last week, according to AAA. “The national average price of gasoline has resumed its …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Moose causes Soap Lake dog park closure

SOAP LAKE – On Monday morning Soap Lake Public Works discovered a moose wandering around public works land before jumping a fence and making its way into the Soap Lake Dog Park, prompting the park to be closed briefly, according to Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp. “We closed the dog …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Soap Lake Conservancy meeting discusses water trends

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Conservancy held a special meeting Saturday to discuss Soap Lake’s Lake water trends. From left to right is United States Bureau of Reclamation Clyde Lay, Washington Department of Ecology Jaime Short and U.S. BOR Marc Maynard. Not pictured but also at the meeting was …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Knolls Vista Elementary principal forum Monday

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District is hosting a community forum today, June 30, at Knolls Vista Elementary to introduce candidates vying for the position of principal. The event, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the school cafeteria, aims to engage parents, faculty and community members in the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Warden City Council approves $575,000 sidewalk project

WARDEN – The Warden City Council approved the West First Street pedestrian path at the regular council meeting June 25. The path will begin on the eastern side of West First Street from South County Road to Jackson Avenue. “We've been working on this project for a long time,” City …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata well repairs to be completed late this week

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata was at a standstill on repairs to Well 3 throughout the weekend because the parts ordered were not delivered Friday morning, as previously anticipated. “We're kind of at a standstill,” Ephrata Public Works Director Rob Harris said. “(Irrigation Technology & Control) will finish rebuilding …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Megan Watson: A driving force behind Moses Lake Community Coalition’s prevention efforts

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata's Well 3 remains under repair as more damage discovered

EPHRATA — The city of Ephrata has issued updates regarding the ongoing emergency repairs to Well 3 following a failure in its supply line Wednesday. Community efforts to conserve water remain critical as city crews work to repair the well, according to a statement from the city. "We found a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Warden City Council approves contract for reservoir study

WARDEN – In a move to enhance the safety of its water infrastructure, the Warden City Council unanimously approved a contract with Gray & Osborne, Inc. for a seismic retrofit study of the city’s two water reservoirs. This engineering study, awarded at a cost of $80,000, is made possible with …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Warden hires interim police chief

WARDEN – The City of Warden has brought on interim police chief Juan Rodriguez from the Moses Lake Police Department after former Police Chief Rick Martin retired June 15. “The toughest thing is sitting and driving around and listening to Moses Lake, which has 25 calls on the board and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Scott Petersen appointed principal of Columbia Middle School

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced the appointment of Scott Petersen as the new principal of Columbia Middle School, effective July 1. With a wealth of educational leadership experience and a strong commitment to fostering student engagement, Petersen succeeds Ryan Pike, who has taken a position closer …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Soap Lake schools get major repairs

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake School District is in the process of making around $6.6 million worth of repairs. “The work is fantastic,” Superintendent Angela Rolfe said. “We're really excited to be able to upgrade and modernize some things that needed to be done.”

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Soap Lake Conservancy special meeting Saturday

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Conservancy will be holding a special meeting Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with several experts to discuss Soap Lake water levels, data and associated trends. “There will be a PowerPoint based on the lake,” Soap Lake Conservancy President Judith Gorman said. “These …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata plans for roundabout detour

EPHRATA — The city of Ephrata is working alongside the Port of Ephrata and the Washington State Department of Transportation to finalize a plan for a detour while building a roundabout on state Route 282.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephratans asked to conserve water after well pump goes down

EPHRATA – The City of Ephrata is asking all residents and businesses to conserve water after a failure occurred in one of the city’s main water wells. “Well Three experienced a main shaft break between the motor and the pump, and we have a contractor coming on site this morning …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Resource fair held at Open Doors Sleep Center

MOSES LAKE — With the Open Doors Sleep Center closing in days, several community resources gathered there Monday for a resource fair to ensure people have access to alternative resources. Several groups spoke with sleep center clients and provided alternatives in the community.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Moses Lake Family Picnic draws strong community support

MOSES LAKE — The annual Moses Lake Family Picnic took place on Saturday at Neppel Landing, celebrating the joys of community and family engagement in a day filled with activities, food and local vendors. According to Downtown Moses Lake Association Executive Director Malory Miller, this year’s event significantly outperformed last …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices rise across the board

MOSES LAKE – Average gas prices rose across the nation, in Washington and in both Grant and Adams Counties, according to AAA. Washington, an outlier in the nation, is the only state in which prices are higher now than a year ago. “With Israel and Iran trading attacks over the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Fireworks ignite wildfire outside Ephrata

EPHRATA – On Saturday evening at around 1:30 a.m., Grant County Fire District 13 was called out to the 1300 block of State Route 28 West for a wildfire. The cause is assumed to be fireworks, according to GCFD 13 Assistant Chief Todd Hufman.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata approves crack seal and pavement repair project

EPHRATA — The Ephrata City Council unanimously accepted as complete the Crack Seal and Pavement Repair Project – 2024 during its regular meeting Wednesday. The project, which was started last year and completed this spring, was awarded to Quality Paving, LLC and totaled $415,686.75. Crews repaired sections of about 50 …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Whooping cough cases surge in 2024 in WA

OLYMPIA – Washington state saw a rise in whooping cough cases in 2024, with 2,261 confirmed and probable cases reported in preliminary figures.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

City of Soap Lake reassumes control of Smokiam Campground, plans upgrades

SOAP LAKE – After years of private management, the City of Soap Lake has officially taken back control of the Smokiam Campground. Mayor Peter Sharp said he supported the transition towards revitalizing the local asset.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata completes upgrades to Nat Washington Way

EPHRATA – After months of planning and construction, Nat Washington Way has received significant upgrades designed to improve an important thoroughfare in Ephrata. Funded by an almost $158,000 Transportation Improvement Board grant, the improvements include a new layer of chip seal and the addition of a center turn lane, enhancing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Paw-sitive saving adoption event at Umpqua Bank on Friday

MOSES LAKE – On Friday, Umpqua Bank will host the "Paw-sitive Savings Adoption Event" to help Grant County Animal Outreach find loving homes for local pets in need. The event will feature six to seven adoptable dogs, with discounted adoption fees aimed at encouraging attendees to adopt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake Library critical part of substance use prevention

MOSES LAKE — In a world where substance use among youth is a growing concern, the Moses Lake Library is a resource in promoting prevention through community engagement, mentorship and diverse programming, according to Moses Lake Community Coalition members.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

BBCC celebrates record-breaking graduation

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College held its 62nd commencement ceremony on Friday night at Lions Field, where it celebrated the largest graduating class in the college’s history. A total of 663 graduates received their degrees. Sara Thompson Tweedy, BBCC’s 10th president, highlighted the importance of the occasion. “We …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Two injured after deer went airborne near Ephrata

EPHRATA – On Friday, one person sustained life-threatening injuries during a vehicle versus deer collision, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Zuri Tlahuel Jimenez, 19, of Moses Lake, was traveling west in the 7800 block of Road 5 Northwest when he struck a deer that had jumped onto the roadway.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices rise locally, nationwide

MOSES LAKE — Average gas prices in Grant County and across the nation rose slightly. While in Washington the average stayed the same for the second week in a row and Adams County saw a slight decrease, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Canal safety urged after drowning incidents

QUINCY — As the warmer months approach, local officials are raising awareness about the dangers posed by irrigation canals, which are integral to the region's agricultural landscape but can be deadly. In recent months, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office has reported two drownings linked to these canals, highlighting the need …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Two Open Doors Sleep Center clients discuss impacts of closure

MOSES LAKE – As the countdown to the closure of the Open Doors Sleep Center continues, individuals relying on its services face renewed uncertainty. Among those impacted by the closure are Brett Tolley, a resident of Moses Lake for over 15 years, and Daniel Clark, who has been unsheltered for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

'No Kings' protest goes off peacefully in Moses Lake on Saturday

MOSES LAKE – Around 330 people lined East Broadway Avenue and North Stratford Road Saturday for a “No Kings” protest, according to Grant County Democrat Vice Chair and Protest Co-organizer Jill Springer. “I have met republicans, independents, progressives, liberals, a couple of conservatives and we have the democrats,” Springer said. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. celebrates courage and community at Chief for a Day

EPHRATA — Laughter filled the air and smiles shone brightly Thursday as Grant County honored 11 exceptional children during the annual Chief for a Day celebration. “Seeing the excitement and happiness on their faces is heartwarming,” said Kyle Foreman, Public Information Officer for the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake Library celebrating renewed look, efficient layout

SOAP LAKE – One Soap Lake resident walks into the library, takes one lap around the building, stopping to look at a couple of things. Before he walks out, he turns to the librarian with a smile on his face. “Looks good in here,” he said before walking out.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLHS Class of 2025 steps out into the world

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School Class of 2025 celebrated a milestone on Tuesday evening as 386 graduates participated in the commencement ceremony held at the school’s stadium. The air was filled with excitement and pride as families and friends gathered to honor the achievements of the graduating …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake Christian Academy sends graduates forth with prayers, blessings

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Christian Academy marked a significant milestone on 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 …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD celebrates inaugural graduation of Digital Learning Center

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District marked a historic milestone on May 4, as the Digital Learning Center proudly held its inaugural graduation ceremony at Lions Field. The school has had two other graduating classes, but they have been previously combined with Moses Lake High School. The event …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Vanguard Academy celebrates first graduating class

MOSES LAKE — Vanguard Academy made history June 4 with the graduation of its inaugural class. The ceremony, held at Lion’s Field, featured heartfelt speeches from both staff and students as they reflected on the unique journey of project-based learning and the bonds formed throughout their high school experience. Vanguard …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata installs new sewer liner

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata water tower gets its top

EPHRATA — The construction of the new Ephrata water tower reached a significant milestone on Saturday morning with the successful placement of its lid, marking the completion of the tower's main structural components. As community members looked on, the lid was hoisted to its final position, a crucial step forward …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Three arrested after trespassing near Hiawatha Lake

MOSES LAKE – Friday afternoon, three people were arrested after they re-entered the site previously known as Hiawatha Homeless Camp, near Hiawatha Lake, in the 1200 block of North Frontage Road East.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden School District appoints Brouillet as interim superintendent

WARDEN — The Warden School District Board of Directors announced the appointment of Marc Brouillet June 4 as Interim Superintendent, effective July 1. Former Superintendent Scott West has taken the position of executive director of safety and well-being at Moses Lake School District.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry seeks forever homes for 16 animals

SOAP LAKE – In an era where pet adoptions have dropped due to economic challenges, Shawna Kluge, president of the Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry, is on a mission to find loving homes for the many animals within her care. With 16 puppies and dogs currently available for adoption or …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Domestic violence incident near Quincy under investigation

QUINCY — A domestic violence situation involving a firearm unfolded late Saturday evening in the unincorporated Quincy-Ephrata area in the 11000 block of Road G-Northwest, prompting a multi-agency response from local law enforcement, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices drop slightly in Grant, Adams counties, WA and nationally

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices across the nation saw a slight decrease, including in both Grant and Adams counties and Washington, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Tractor trailer fire on SR 17 causes delays

MOSES LAKE – A tractor trailer carrying cardboard on state Route 17 ignited Monday morning at around 9:30 a.m. just north of Rocky Ford Creek, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Superintendent Lewis provides update on MLSD finances

MOSES LAKE – During the regular Moses Lake School District board meeting held Thursday night, Superintendent Carol Lewis delivered a report weaving together elements of the district’s financial status and academic strategies, leaning into a prior cross-country race analogy for the next four years.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Thursday wildfire burns 105 acres near Quincy

QUINCY – A fire started around 3 a.m. Thursday near Road 13 Northwest, east of Adams Road. According to Grant County Fire District 3 Chief David Durfee, the fire was under control at around 105 acres as of 4:53 p.m.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

3 new student representatives join MLSD board

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced the appointment of three new Student Board Representatives for the 2025-26 school year at the regular school board meeting Thursday. MLSD Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon introduced the new board members.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Local youth honored at upcoming Chief for a Day event

EPHRATA – What happens when Grant County children, who are battling significant medical challenges, are promised a day of fun and recognition? They become honorary Chiefs for a day on June 12, an exhilarating experience that leaves lasting smiles and cherished memories. “It’s all about giving the families and the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake School District completes successful audit with no findings

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake School District has completed its annual financial and federal audit conducted by the Washington State Auditor’s Office. The audit results indicate a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and compliance with both federal and state regulations.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

'Truly one of the best that Ephrata High School has to offer'

EPHRATA – Hannah Keen, a senior at Ephrata High School, has been recognized as one of the June Students of the Month for her exceptional growth, dedication and positivity both in and outside the classroom, according to Marla Allsopp, the teacher who nominated her.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

WA use-of-force database up and running

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Attorney General’s Office has announced the official launch of the Washington State Data Exchange for Public Safety, after several years of delays, according to Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. “A single location with clear, standardized and contextual information will help the public better understand the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

WA student summer food program open for applications

OLYMPIA – This summer, approximately 620,000 children across Washington will benefit from SUN Bucks, a program designed to help families purchase food when school is not in session. The initiative, funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program is aimed at providing nutritional support during the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Extreme heat watch issued for Central Washington

MOSES LAKE – The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for several regions in Central Washington, including the Moses Lake and Wenatchee areas, effective from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday evening.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Applications open for Grant Co. leadership program

EPHRATA — The Community Foundation of North Central Washington is now accepting applications for its upcoming Leadership Institute of NCW program, set to take place in Grant County. This initiative aims to empower residents by equipping them with essential civic skills and leadership knowledge, ultimately fostering stronger communities across the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Basin firefighters see busy weekend

QUINCY – Over the weekend, two wildfires and a home fire in Grant County and, as of Sunday, the county is in a burn ban effective until at least Sept. 30. “Be aware of what the rules are and follow the burn ban stipulations. We prefer not burning at all,” …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices drop slightly in Adams Co., WA and nationally

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices this week saw a slight decline in Adams County, Washington and nationally compared to last week, according to AAA. However, in Grant County, there was a two-cent increase on average.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake man arrested following domestic violence incident

MOSES LAKE – A 35-year-old man is in custody following a domestic violence incident that escalated into a standoff with law enforcement Monday morning, according to Grant County Sheriff's Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata area fire damages about 26 acres Thursday

EPHRATA – On Thursday at around 4:30 p.m., Grant County Fire District 13 was called out to a fire in the 12000 block of Road B.6 Northwest. The fire started as a controlled burn, but because of winds, it quickly became uncontrolled.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

FIRE REPORT: Second Creek fire continues blazing, one other fire mostly contained

LEAVENWORTH – The Second Creek Fire is sitting at around 75 acres as of Thursday night, growing around 9.9 acres since Wednesday, according to a statement from Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ellensburg celebrates new economic partnership with CWU

ELLENSBURG – Central Washington University, Kittitas County and the City of Ellensburg have partnered to work toward economic development and work toward economic innovation. This strategic collaboration will soon be realized through the remodeling of the historic Old Heat facility, which will be updated into a technology transfer hub with …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata water tower final ring added, external design finalized

EPHRATA – Soon as people drive into Ephrata, they will be greeted with two 24-foot-tall Ephrata School District “E” logos adorned on the new water tower the city is building. The 16th and final ring of the tower was added Tuesday, with the tower anticipated to be fully functional by …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata schools mulling bond package for spring 2026

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Facility Study Group meeting discussed several options for potential bond packages for the upcoming school year. “We really began this work about a year and a half ago when it became apparent that we were going to need to defuse some of the dollars that were …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Firefighters battling Second Creek Fire near Leavenworth

LEAVENWORTH — Firefighters are currently battling the Second Creek Fire, which began on Monday and has scorched an estimated 64.1 acres, according to a report from the Southeast Washington Type-3 Incident Management Team.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Grant County burn ban to begin Sunday

MOSES LAKE — As temperatures rise and vegetation dries out, Grant County is about to start its annual burn ban beginning June 1, a measure designed to minimize the risk of wildfires during the summer months. The ban will continue until Sept. 30, encompassing all unincorporated areas of the county. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD restructuring admin office, saving district money

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District has hired people for two new administrative positions, including Yvonne Walker as the executive director of teaching and learning, and Scott West as the executive director of safety and wellbeing.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Fire burns 5 acres in Moses Lake Monday

MOSES LAKE – Monday evening around 5 p.m., Moses Lake Fire Department was dispatched to a brush fire near State Route 17 and North Stratford Road.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices rise in Basin and state

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices have seen one of the largest increases in Washington this year, with prices sitting at an average of $4.42, according to AAA. There was also an increase in both Grant and Adams counties from the previous week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Energy Science Days help students learn about renewable energy

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District participated in the Energy Science Days, hosted at Big Bend Community College last Wednesday for fifth-grade students.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

WISe program helps youth amid mental health crises

MOSES LAKE —The Wraparound with Intensive Services program is making significant strides in addressing the mental health needs of youth in Washington, according to the Grant County Direct Supervisor of WISe, Velma De La Rosa.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Juvenile shot, suffers non-life-threatening injuries

MOSES LAKE — On Tuesday at around 6:30 p.m. the Moses Lake Police Department received a call of shots fired in the 500 block of Central Drive, according to a statement from the MLPD. When officers arrived, they located a 17-year-old male with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound in his leg. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Welded to success

EPHRATA – Lila Smith, a freshman at Ephrata High School, earned the title as one of the Students of the Month for May in the Ephrata School District.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata Fire Department named 2025 Volunteer Fire House of the Year

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Fire Department has been awarded the title of "Volunteer Fire House of the Year" for 2025 by the Washington State Firefighters Association, significant recognition for the primarily volunteer-based team.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

A promise fulfilled

OLYMPIA — Washington farmers were promised fuel exemptions from the state’s Climate Commitment Act, and four years after its initial passage, Gov. Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1912 which facilitates fuel exemptions for farmers under the CCA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

New wildlife feeding ban takes effect in WA amid concerns of CWD

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has adopted new regulations prohibiting the feeding of deer, elk and moose statewide, effective last Friday. This decision comes as a precautionary measure to mitigate the risk of transmitting Chronic Wasting Disease, an always-fatal neurological disease that affects cervids, among Washington’s …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

1,100-acre fire contained near Grant-Kittitas border

ELLENSBURG — On Sunday afternoon around 12:35 p.m. firefighters were dispatched to Bourne Springs for a fast-moving wildland fire at the Yakima Training Center. “It occurred in an open training area, and it was caused due to training activities,” Yakima Training Center Public Affairs Officer Paul Noel said. The fire …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices rise in Grant Co., WA and nationally

MOSES LAKE — Gas prices across the nation rose, impacting both Grant County and Washington state, according to the American Automobile Association. However, gas prices are still lower than last year at this time, which is good for travelers this upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Last week, Grant County was sitting …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Littering fines, plastic bag prices to increase this summer

OLYMPIA — In Washington, customers will begin to pay more for plastic bags, and those who choose to litter will be facing high fines after Gov. Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1293 into law Saturday. “People who dump garbage in our beautiful state must be held accountable,” said sponsor Rep. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Touch a Truck event supports Ephrata Food Bank

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Fire Department's annual "Touch a Truck" event Saturday drew a crowd despite early rain showers, as community members visited the Splash Zone parking lot to engage with a variety of large vehicles. The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., served as both a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Groff Elementary 2025-26 plans in the works

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District board met Thursday night for a regular meeting to discuss the feedback the district received from parents at Groff Elementary for next year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD updates policies

MOSES LAKE — At the Thursday night regular Moses Lake School Board meeting, one new policy was passed relating to social media usage for employees. The board also updated a policy in regard to capital assets and theft.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gov. proclaims support for WA veterans

MOSES LAKE – Gov. Bob Ferguson recently signed a proclamation reaffirming Washington’s commitment to veteran suicide prevention. The proclamation comes amidst rising concerns about mental health challenges facing vets, with the rate of veteran suicide in Washington exceeding the national average, according to a statement from Ferguson.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD meeting addresses gang activity, youth safety

MOSES LAKE — Community leaders, educators, law enforcement officials and parents gathered at the Moses Lake School District Tuesday for a discussion on youth safety and gang activity. The meeting, which featured a panel of experts from various sectors, aimed to convey important information regarding the challenges and trends in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Building their way to nationals

EPHRATA – Ten sixth-grade Parkway Intermediate students, two advisors and a Lego robot named Jeff will travel to New Jersey this week for the national Lego Robotics championship. For a handful of the students this is their first time on a plane, for others their first time on the east …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

EHS senior Chase Moser recognized as student of the month

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School senior Chase Moser has been named as one of the Students of the Month for May, an accolade that his teachers said highlights his exceptional abilities in writing, public speaking and critical thinking. Moser’s academic journey within Ephrata School District, which began in fourth grade, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Fairgrounds preparing for busy season

MOSES LAKE — The days are getting warmer and with the Grant County Fair just around the corner, the fairgrounds team is ramping up its preparations. Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan announced upgrades to the facility aimed at enhancing safety and overall visitor experience, while simultaneously addressing a crucial staffing shortage …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Quincy man reported missing Saturday, found hours later

QUINCY — On Saturday night, a 68-year-old Quincy man was reported missing near the 23000 block of state Route 28 in the Trinidad area. Grant County Sheriff’s Office worked alongside Grant County Fire District 3, Quincy Police Department, Columbia EMS and Life Flight Network to search for this missing man.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ferguson signs animal cruelty bill

OLYMPIA — In a step toward enhancing animal welfare, the Washington State Legislature has passed House Bill 1149, an act aimed at the prevention of cruelty to animals. The bill received overwhelming support, with a vote of 96-0 in the House and 47-1 in the Senate, before being concurred by …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Columbia Basin schools recognized for excellence

MOSES LAKE – In a display of educational dedication, several schools within the Columbia Basin area have received honors from the Washington State School Recognition Program for the 2023-2024 academic year. These awards celebrate schools that have excelled in crucial areas of student success, including closing achievement gaps, fostering growth …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Outstanding Grit

EPHRATA – Thirty exceptional seniors were called on stage with other students cheering and clapping Thursday morning during the Ephrata High School assembly. The students were presented with Outstanding Senior Awards or Grit Academic Department Awards.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD to host gang town hall today

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District will host a town hall today from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Learning Services Center, focusing on youth gang awareness and prevention. This event seeks to engage families, educators and community members in a dialogue about the challenges that gang activity …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Marching through the neighborhood

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School band performed for residential neighborhoods behind MLHS after school Wednesday. The students practiced marching together in unison and playing their instruments. Several community members brought out lawn chairs and watched as the group made its way down Leanne Avenue. Halfway through the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gang awareness event held in Ephrata

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District organized an informational session on youth gang involvement Thursday night, bringing together educators, law enforcement and community members to address youth gang concerns in the region.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Fairgrounds has urgent need of seasonal staff

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds is calling for immediate applications for seasonal positions as the county prepares for its busy fair season. Fairgronds Director Jim McKiernan said the organization typically hires four to six seasonal workers each year to help manage the increased workload but has encountered significant …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata passes 6-year transpo plan

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council passed its six-year transportation improvement program for 2026 through 2031 unanimously Wednesday night during the council’s regular meeting. “This is a plan for our roads, this is kind of a wish list,” Public Works Director Rob Harris said.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata Fire to hold Touch a Truck event to support Ephrata Food Bank

EPHRATA – Fire trucks, buses, ambulances, concrete mixers, dump trucks, tractors and other emergency vehicles and equipment will fill the Ephrata Splash Zone parking lot on May 17. The Ephrata Fire Department will be hosting its annual “Touch a Truck” event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to raise funds …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

New Ephrata Sports Complex bathrooms open to the public

EPHRATA – Ephrata Public Works staff worked late into the night Thursday to pour and protect the new concrete pad for the new restrooms at the Sports Complex located at 121 Alder St. SW. The staff, according to Public Works Director Rob Harris, stayed until 4 a.m. to complete the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata SD gang town hall today

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District, in collaboration with local law enforcement and the North Central Educational Service District, will host a town hall meeting titled "Understanding Youth Gangs" on May 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ephrata High School Performing Arts Center.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata school nurse ensures students thrive despite medical needs

EPHRATA – Pam Cleveringa has been a part of the Ephrata School District since 2010, serving as the school nurse for over a decade. With a nursing career that began in 1999, Cleveringa initially engaged in various nursing roles, including hospital and maternity care. However, upon the recommendation of friends …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

New water main connection will have two roads down to one lane in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – Today from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Moses Lake, Pegram Construction will be closing the two westbound lanes of Valley Road between Sunburst Court Northeast and Grape Drive Northeast to add a new water main connection.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake School Board passes five policies, holds one

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board met for its regular meeting April 1 passed five policy updates and discussed one policy update with no action taken. The policies ranged from updating guidelines for non-resident students to removing a sentence from the district’s sexual harassment policy.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

WA wildlife crop damage law signed

OLYMPIA – In a move to support farmers in less densely populated areas, the Washington State Legislature unanimously passed Senate Bill 5165, which aims to provide compensation for damage to commercial crops caused by wild deer and elk in designated frontier one counties.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

MLSD discusses levy fund use in 2025-26

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake School District Superintendent Carol Lewis discussed plans for the 2025-26 school year levy funds at the May 1 regular school board meeting. The district will only collect a partial levy in the second half of the school year at an estimated $5.9 million om revenue. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

New law provides protection for hot car rescues

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Legislature has passed House Bill 1046, which grants immunity from civil liability for those who forcibly enter a locked vehicle to rescue a vulnerable person or domestic pet. The bill, passed by both the House and Senate in April and signed into law by Gov. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Utilities required to strengthen fire mitigation plans under WA law

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Legislature has unanimously passed House Bill 1522, a measure designed to bolster the wildfire mitigation strategies of investor-owned electric utilities. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed the bill into law on April 24 with it to go into effect on July 27, 2025. “This bill builds on …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Four juveniles steal vehicle, elude police and roll car

MOSES LAKE – Monday morning at around 1:30 a.m., a vehicle was stolen by four Moses Lake juveniles between the ages of 13 to 15 on Bong Loop in Moses Lake. The car was called in as stolen, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices drop in Grant, Adams, rise nationally

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices in Grant County, Adams County and Washington State saw a slight decrease. At the national level, there was around a two-cent increase from the previous week, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

MLPD uncovers large rooster fighting operation during drug search

MOSES LAKE – On May 1, the Moses Lake Street Crimes Unit, with assistance from the Moses Lake Tactical Response Team, executed a search warrant at 10032 Rd N.4 NE in Moses Lake. The operation, initially focused on methamphetamine sales and illegal firearm possession, unearthed an extensive illegal rooster fighting …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

New legislation updates laws for working minors in WA

DUPONT— Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson recently signed Senate Bill 1644 into law, establishing enhanced safety and health regulations for minors employed in both agricultural and non-agricultural industries. Ferguson signed the bill on International Workers’ Memorial Day at the Western Washington Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee’s DuPont campus.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata High enhances security with new video intercom system

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School recently completed the installation of a new video intercom system as part of an initiative to bolster safety measures for students, staff and visitors. This new security upgrade, which was finalized over spring break, adds a layer of protection for the school, allowing for more …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD hosting community forum to introduce finalists for leadership role

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is inviting families, staff and community members to actively participate in a forum to introduce finalists for the executive director of safety and wellbeing tonight, as the district seeks to enhance its educational and safety framework

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Substance abuse resources highlighted at town hall

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Community Coalition held a town hall to discuss addiction and resources in the Moses Lake community. The meeting titled “The Us in Them: The line between us and them is thinner than you think” had a panel of six speakers from a variety of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Warden seeks new police chief

WARDEN – The City of Warden is preparing for a transition in its Police Department as Chief Rick Martin announced his retirement effective June 15, 2025, at the April 22 city council meeting prompting the city to initiate the hiring process for his successor.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices raise in Grant Co., drop elsewhere

MOSES LAKE – As of April 28, gasoline prices in Grant and Adams counties continue to display notable variation amidst a steady national average, according to AAA.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

One dead, another injured in one-vehicle crash

MARLIN – A 33-year-old man from Moses Lake, Don “Chris” Terrell, was killed in a one-vehicle accident early Friday morning near Marlin, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Birding adventure

COULEE CITY – As the sun peeks over the horizon on an April morning, the air is alive with the sounds of chirping birds, signaling the arrival of spring migration. Join the Central Basin Audubon Society for an exciting bird walk at Sun Lakes State Park, where participants can witness …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Breakfast event to raise funds for Big Bend Cooperative Preschool

MOSES LAKE – In a delightful fusion of nostalgia and culinary adventure, the Big Bend Cooperative Preschool is once again hosting its beloved Dr. Seuss-inspired breakfast fundraiser, featuring none other than the beloved dish made famous by the iconic children’s book: “Green Eggs and Ham.”

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Fourth suspect arrested in kidnapping, assault case

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a fourth suspect involved in the alleged imprisonment and assault of a Moses Lake woman Wednesday. A driver who was fleeing from law enforcement in connection with the incident, and was killed in a crash, has been identified.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata’s Downer recognized for excellence

EPHRATA — Hannah Downer, an 18-year-old senior at Ephrata High School, has been selected as one of the Students of the Month for March in recognition of her academic performance, leadership roles in extracurricular activities and positive influence on her peers. “I like being nominated for stuff and being recognized,” …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Incident in Moses Lake leaves one dead, two arrested

MOSES LAKE – One man died following a high-speed pursuit, while two women have been taken into custody on charges of robbery and unlawful imprisonment following an incident early Wednesday morning in Moses Lake, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Sustainable irrigation practices for farmers, homeowners

MOSES LAKE – As concerns about climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, agricultural experts are turning their attention to innovative irrigation techniques aimed at enhancing sustainability in farming. A recent report from the Department of Global Ecology at the Carnegie Institution for Science highlights the potential of “green …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Cantwell takes the helm at WSU

RICHLAND – Elizabeth “Betsy” Cantwell officially began her tenure as the 12th president of Washington State University April 1, marking a new chapter for the institution founded under the land-grant mission to provide accessible education and enhance the quality of life for communities across the state. Cantwell is the first …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata schools, partners to host gang town hall

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District, in collaboration with the North Central Educational Service District, the Ephrata Police Department and the Grant County Sheriff's Office, is set to host a town hall meeting titled "Understanding Youth Gangs" on Thursday, May 8.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

WIAA votes against trans athlete policy changes

RENTON – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association completed a vote on several different amendments, including two regarding transgender athletes. Both proposed amendments for trans athletes failed during the vote.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Three bills for rural communities pass the legislature, signed by governor

OLYMPIA — Gov. Bob Ferguson signed 35 bills into law Monday including three pieces of legislation sponsored by Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake. Dent’s bills include topics such as large animal veterinarian care, the pesticide task force and allowing small regional airports to use real estate excise tax funds. “I …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake man arrested for residential burglary

MOSES LAKE – Grant County Sheriff’s Office arrested 54-year-old Darrell Smith of Moses Lake on Friday at a residence in the 4400 block of Shorecrest Drive Northeast.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Hands Off protest held in Moses Lake on Saturday

MOSES LAKE – Around 120 people gathered near Walgreens Saturday to protest President Donald Trump and his administration for a “Hands Off” protest, according to Grant County Democrats Vice Chair Jill Springer Forrest.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Eagle humanely euthanized due to wing injury

SOAP LAKE – Last week, Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry President Shawna Kluge assisted with transporting an injured bald eagle to Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Local fuel prices continue to overshadow state, national costs

MOSES LAKE – Gas prices in Washington state have experienced a slight decline over the past week, mirroring national trends, as data from GasBuddy indicates. As of April 21, the average price for a gallon of gasoline in Washington stands at $4.22, down from $4.30 the previous week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

One arrested for theft near Quincy

QUINCY – Grant County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and Quincy Police officers responded to a call of trespassing on Saturday in the 6000 block of Road U.5 Northwest.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

18-year-old arrested after clocking 100 mph

MOSES LAKE – Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 18-year-old Marco Martinez-Valencia of Moses Lake at around 1:15 a.m. Sunday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Aerial support

SOAP LAKE — After four days, two veterinary clinics and one tire blowout, a bald eagle has been rescued and receiving care from the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Pullman. On April 13, Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry President Shawna Kluge said she received a call from a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD reads three policies, no votes occurred

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District School Board did first reads on three proposed policies at the April 18 board meeting. No decisions were made on any policy updates.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Gilreath appointed as new principal at Parkway Intermediate

EPHRATA—The Ephrata School District has announced Kim Gilreath's appointment as the next principal of Parkway Intermediate School, effective July 1, 2025. Gilreath will succeed current principal Jeremy Vasquez, who plans to return to the classroom. With over 25 years of experience in various educational capacities, Gilreath said she brings a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Hearings on Soap Lake PD chief's termination begin

SOAP LAKE —The Soap Lake Civil Service Commission convened Monday for a meeting addressing the contested termination of former Soap Lake Police Department Chief Ryan Cox, who is challenging his dismissal following a disciplinary investigation. Cox was terminated by city officials Feb. 13 after being placed on paid administrative leave …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake City Council applauds K-9 heroes

SOAP LAKE — At the April 16 Soap Lake City Council meeting, both Moses Lake Police Department and Grant County Sheriff’s Office received a $606.01 donation from the city, totaling $1012.02 for the two departments. Mayor Peter Sharp thanked the K-9s and their handlers for all of the work and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake City Council downsizes itself

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council made a decision regarding council size after three meetings of deliberation. Four council members voted in favor of downsizing the council to five members for the upcoming election this November. Both Kayleen Bryson and John Carlson voted no on the matter.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata installs new latrines at Sports Complex

MOSES LAKE – Ephrata Parks and Recreation sports complex will be getting new bathrooms. Crews are working on getting everything connected for public use.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake council appoints Arnold to vacancy

SOAP LAKE – At the April 16 Soap Lake City Council meeting the council appointed Andrew Arnold to fill seat six. One open seat remains on the council. Arnold said he had previously been on the council for two years before he resigned.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Firearm permit bill moving to governor's desk

OLYMPIA – Washington State House Bill 1163 passed the Senate with a vote of 29 to 19 Monday following its earlier passage in the house. The bill seeks to implement stricter regulations surrounding the purchase, transfer and possession of firearms by requiring a permit to purchase them.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

One arrested for suspected kidnapping and assault

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a suspect, Destin Johnson, 27, of Kent on suspicion of kidnapping and assault of a man last week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

FFA Plant sales blooming soon

MOSES LAKE – As the weather warms the plants start to bloom, including plants in local Future Farmers of America greenhouses. Several chapters across Grant County are gearing up to hold their annual plant sales.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices decline slightly in Washington and nationwide

MOSES LAKE – In a welcome development for motorists, the national average price of gasoline has fallen for the first time in nearly a month, dropping 7 cents from last week to $3.13 per gallon, according to data from GasBuddy. This decline comes after a period of rising prices, with …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Two injured in traffic collision, suspected DUI

GEORGE — Two George men were injured early Sunday due to a one-vehicle collision southwest of George.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

16-year-old injured by firework

MOSES LAKE — A 16-year-old was injured by a presumed aerial firework on March Avenue and Loring Drive in the Larson community early Sunday morning, according to the Grant County Sheriff's Office. “Fireworks are only permitted to be sold and purchased and ignited for certain periods of time around the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

NextEra Energy plans Dry Falls Solar project in Grant County

COULEE CITY – NextEra Energy Resources has proposed a significant renewable energy project, Dry Falls Solar, which aims to bolster the region’s shift toward clean energy and economic growth.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

‘Our shelves are really empty’

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Food Bank, a resource for families in the Ephrata community, is currently facing significant challenges due to dwindling supplies, but increased demand, Director Phyllis Fuglie said. Since moving to its current location in 2003, the food bank has served as a lifeline for many residents struggling …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

State treasurer visits Ephrata, discusses WA financial health

EPHRATA – Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti visited the Ephrata Rotary Club Tuesday to discuss his role and the financial health of the state. He said he is trying to visit all of the local Rotary Clubs around the state to educate communities on state finance and answer questions from …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake City Council still seeking to fill two seats

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council is actively seeking candidates to fill two open council positions. "Participating in city council is not just about being in the government; it's about community representation," Council Member Judith Gorman said, noting that she spoke on her own behalf and not the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Warden council undecided on port road project

WARDEN – Warden City Council met for a regular meeting Tuesday to continue the discussion on the Port of Warden Industrial Road Project and pass several other resolutions including signing the Grant County Economic Development agreement, accepting a parade for graduating students and allowing for bids to take place on …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Ferguson signed 23 bills into law this week

OLYMPIA – Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed 24 bills into law in the past week. The bills change laws covering issues from suicide prevention to education funding to vehicle inspections.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLPD arrests one after firearm shown at coffee stand

MOSES LAKE – A 34-year-old Moses Lake man was arrested Monday afternoon after displaying a handgun in the drive-through of an espresso stand, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Discover Pass fee increase considered by WA legislature

OLYMPIA —Washington State Senate Bill 5390, which proposes to increase the cost of the Discover Pass and day-use permits, was the subject of discussion during a recent hearing before the House Committee on Appropriations. The bill aims to update fees that have remained unchanged since their implementation in 2011 and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Gas prices rise nationally, drop slightly in WA

MOSES LAKE— In the latest report from GasBuddy, the national average price of gasoline has increased for the third consecutive week, rising 10.6 cents to $3.21 per gallon. This marks a 13.2-cent increase from just a month ago but remains 35.6 cents lower than the same time last year. The …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

MLSD provides more details on Groff legal action

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake School District officials announced during a Friday press conference that Groff Elementary will remain closed for the 2025-26 school year due to the ongoing infrastructure issues tied to the original construction of the building. The district is also pursuing legal action against Fowler General Construction …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Groff litigation, improving finances addressed in MLSD board meeting

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board met for a regular meeting April 3 and discussed litigation regarding Groff Elementary, adding public health information to the district website, protection of student information and heard a financial report from MLSD superintendent Carol Lewis.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

SLPD swears in newest officer, hiring for police chief

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Police Department swore in its newest officer, Yuriy Bezzubenko at the Soap Lake City Council meeting Wednesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake council debates downsizing itself

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council voted for the second time to postpone action on changing the number of city council members at Wednesday’s meeting. The council has seven seats and five members; however, there is a proposed ordinance to drop the council down to five seats. The …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata’s Lopez Argueta excels in classes despite language barrier

EPHRATA – In a celebration of resilience and hard work, Ephrata High School has named Diego Lopez Argueta as one of the Students of the Month for March. His tenacity in the face of challenges, particularly his efforts in overcoming language barriers, has made a significant impact on both his …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata SD approves purchase of two surplus busses

EPHRATA -- The Ephrata School Board approved the purchase of two surplus 42-passenger buses at its March 24 meeting. The total cost of the purchase was $17,500.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Robot paints lines, saves time

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District has been using a “tiny robot” for around a year to paint the fields at Ephrata Middle School and Ephrata High School.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Groff students settling into new campuses

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is settling students and teachers into classrooms Groff Elementary will be closed for the remainder of the school year after electrical issues resulted in the injury of an unidentified individual. The school was originally planned to be closed March 3 through March …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Search warrants lead to arrest, narcotics seized

MOSES LAKE – Several federal search warrants were served March 30 in the greater Moses Lake area by the Moses Lake Police Street Crimes Unit Detectives who also serve as Task Force Officers for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

March 2025 a busy month for Basin law enforcement

MOSES LAKE — March was a busy month for law enforcement with the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Moses Lake Police Department and Adams County Sheriff’s Office all involved in investigations. The month had high speed chases, drive-by shootings and suspects fleeing from law enforcement, along with some other cases. Here …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO

Consumer alert issued for Bridge City Firm over alleged misconduct

VANCOUVER — The Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific has issued a consumer alert concerning Bridge City Firm, a digital marketing and SEO service company based in Vancouver, Washington. Managed by Mark Davis, the firm has faced scrutiny from former clients who have raised serious concerns about its telemarketing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Unemployment in WA, nation rises

OLYMPIA — In February 2025 the labor market in Washington state revealed a discouraging trend, as the state experienced a decline in nonfarm employment paired with a slow rise in the unemployment rate, according to a report from the Washington State Employment Security Department.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Basin teams shine at 49th Ray Cross Invitational

EPHRATA — On a sunny Saturday, local high school track and field teams showcased their talent at the 49th annual Ray Cross Invitational, with performances and personal bests across the board. Ephrata, Quincy, Othello, Moses Lake Christian Academy and Royal all sent strong contingents to compete, but it was the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Gas prices rise in Washington

MOSES LAKE — The average price of gasoline in Washington has reached a year-high of $4.38 per gallon, marking a significant increase from recent weeks. As of March 31, the price represents a 34-cent jump from the previous week and reflects a broader trend observed nationwide.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata's Trachsler retires after nearly three decades of service

EPHRATA – Ephrata City Hall will be a little emptier today after Leslie Trachsler, the beloved city clerk and finance director of Ephrata, completed her last day Friday. This concluded a 28-year career dedicated to the community and its governance. In an emotional farewell gathering held at the Ephrata Recreation …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

GCSO warns of assessor impersonation scam

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn the public of a subject impersonating Grant County deputy assessors.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

WA Legislature passes school safety bill

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Legislature has passed Senate Bill 5004, aimed at modernizing emergency response systems in K-12 schools, in a unanimous vote of 98-0 by the House and 49-0 by the Senate. The bill focuses on implementing advanced safety measures, including panic or alert buttons, to improve response …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Showing growth and perseverance

EPHRATA — Edgar Lopez, a student in the Life Skills program at Ephrata High School, has been named one of the February Students of the Month for his significant academic and personal growth. His journey through high school, while marked with challenges, stands as a testament to perseverance, kindness and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Warden considers development agreement with Port of Warden

WARDEN — During a city council meeting Tuesday, the Warden City Council listened to a presentation regarding potential road developments that may facilitate an infrastructure project in partnership with the Port of Warden.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

SLPD loses two officers, receiving assistance from GCSO

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Police Department currently has two officers, according to Acting Chief Robert Geates, him and one other officer. SLPD will be getting one lateral officer from Alaska after he completes his training. Geates also said he has one other officer “on background” and one officer …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

ECBID’s Bischoff promoted to deputy assistant manager of operations and maintenance

OTHELLO — The East Columbia Basin Irrigation District has announced the promotion of Bobby Bischoff to Deputy Assistant Manager of Operations and Maintenance. A veteran of the ECBID with 15 years of service, Bischoff previously held the role of Special Projects Administrator.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Infrastructure improvements continue in Ephrata

EPHRATA – Developments are continuing to take place in Ephrata as the city embarks on infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing community resources and ensuring the reliability of essential services. Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim recently provided insights into ongoing initiatives, including the construction of a new water tower, road maintenance efforts, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Annual narcotics enforcement report released

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team released its annual report Monday, revealing a rise in drug-related activity in the region for 2024. The report noted increases in drug seizures, overdose deaths and overall criminal activity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Migratory visitors

OTHELLO — People from throughout the Pacific Northwest gathered in and around Othello to catch a glimpse of an annual phenomenon. Whether they crept down backroads with binoculars and cameras poking out of windows or followed trumpeting and croaking noises to their quarry, visitors to the Othello Sandhill Crane Festival …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Seeds 'n Stone transitioning to online marketplace

MOSES LAKE — Amy Winter, owner of the wellness and lifestyle boutique Seeds 'n Stone, confirmed that the shop's physical location on Third Avenue will close its doors for the final time on Wednesday. However, despite the closure, Winter assured her customers that this move signifies a new beginning rather …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Seven ag bills pass one chamber of WA legislature

OLYMPIA — The Washington legislative session ends on April 27, and there are several bills that have passed one chamber of the legislature and are heading to the next that will impact agriculture for Washingtonians. Bills range from fuel exemptions for farmers to promoting agritourism.

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices on the rise: A look at national and WA trends

MOSES LAKE – As of Monday, the average price of gasoline in the United States has observed a notable increase, rising 6.3 cents from the previous week to settle at $3.08 per gallon, according to data from the website GasBuddy, which tracks prices from more than 12 million reports across …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Heat lamp likely culprit in Ephrata area fire

EPHRATA – On Sunday morning at around 8:30 a.m. Grant County Fire District 13 responded to a structure fire in the 129000 block of Road C.5 Northwest. Engine 1311 arrived at an outbuilding that was fully engulfed in flames. The outbuilding normally housed goats and chickens, all goats were accounted …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD suspends protections for trans students

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District school board suspended policy 3211, which protects transgender students from harassment, intimidation and bullying, at the March 20 regular board meeting. The board also sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Education asking for federal …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLHS welders heading to state competition

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake High School welders will be heading to state competitions March 27 and 28. The team this year consists of freshman Connor Nelson, sophomore Roenin Matosich and junior William Bennet. According to welding teacher Jimmy Herrin, the students just received the design for this year’s project, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata PD joins BlueBridge Alliance to foster community ties

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department announced its partnership Tuesday with the BlueBridge Alliance, an initiative aimed at enhancing community relations by providing help to the needy. This partnership helps provide immediate help to residents facing challenging circumstances.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

St. Rose of Lima, Young Ladies Institute partner for blood drive

EPHRATA — St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church is once again uniting its community for a noble cause. On April 16, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Young Ladies Institute and Knights of Columbus will collaborate to host a blood drive at the Ephrata Recreation Center. This annual event …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata High’s Smith named student of the month

EPHRATA — Devin Smith, a sophomore at Ephrata High School, has been recognized as one of the EHS February Students of the Month, a recognition bestowed by his teacher, Scott Sandberg. Sandberg, who teaches cyber security and serves as the Future Business Leaders of America advisor, highlighted Smith’s exemplary performance …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

WA gun bill could have major implications for Grant Co. Fair

OLYMPIA — A Washington State Senate bill to ban firearms in public areas where children may be present had its first hearing in the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee Tuesday. More than 50 people were scheduled to testify regarding the bill during the committee meeting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Infant attacked by dog, alive and receiving care

MOSES LAKE – Friday at around noon, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a dog attack incident involving a four-week-old baby boy. The minor was brought to Samaritan Hospital prior to police contact.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Gas prices drop for fourth consecutive week

MOSES LAKE – The national average price of gasoline has fallen for the fourth straight week, according to data from GasBuddy, which tracks prices from more than 12 million reports across over 150,000 gas stations.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Fairgrounds shooter sentenced after pleading guilty

MOSES LAKE – A 15-year-old has been sentenced for a shooting incident at the Grant County Fairgrounds last August, according to Grant County Prosecuting Attorney Kevin McCrae.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

UPDATE: Porterhouse moves up closing date

MOSES LAKE -- The Porterhouse Steakhouse owners have decided to close the restaurant earlier than anticipated with March 22 being the final day of operations. Owners Sam and Cale Russell said this is to help the new owner with the transition process. The steakhouse will be open from 4 p.m. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Porterhouse Steakhouse to close after 15-year run

MOSES LAKE – The Porterhouse Steakhouse will be closing its doors March 29. Brothers Sam and Cale Russell have owned the restaurant for more than 15 years; however, they said it’s time for the restaurant to move onto its next era. The restaurant will remain open for normal business hours …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Local law enforcement responds to shooting at Hiawatha homeless camp

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Police Department responded to a call for gunshots fired, just past noon Friday at the Hiawatha Lake homeless camp, near the 1000 block of North Frontage Road East in unincorporated Moses Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD, OSPI spar over transgender athletics

MOSES LAKE – The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction has responded to a letter from the Moses Lake School District Board of Directors that was sent to State Superintendent Chris Reykdal with a copy addressed to Governor Bob Ferguson. The letter from MLSD addresses the issue of transgender …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

DV suspect arrested near Grand Coulee Wednesday

GRAND COULEE – On Wednesday, Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call on State Route 174 East regarding a domestic violence incident. “Deputies answer many domestic violence-related calls daily,” GCSO Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said. “This one escalated to a high level and required several deputies and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Paws and applause: celebrating Ephrata’s outstanding Tiger leader

EPHRATA – Ephrata High School senior Erika Morford has been named one of the February Students of the Month, a recognition that the teacher who nominated her said highlights her significant contributions as treasurer of the Associated Student Body and vice president of the National Honor Society, among other activities.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata PUD office receiving ADA upgrades, closed until March 21

EPHRATA – The Grant County Public Utility District headquarters building, 30 C St. SW in Ephrata, will be closed from March 10 to March 21 to install accessibility upgrades and refurbish some of the public areas, according to PUD public information officer Christine Pratt. The upgrades will cost the utility …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata intermediate school staffs to compete in tie-breaker volleyball game

EPHRATA – The stakes are high, bragging rights are up for grabs and both teams are all in on the goal of raising funds and food for the Ephrata Food Bank. The Ephrata School District will be hosting its third annual Ephrata Middle School vs. Parkway Secondary School staff volleyball …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Research collaborations address potato virus management challenges

KENNEWICK – At a presentation hosted at the Washington – Oregon Potato Conference Jan. 29, leading researchers discussed their ongoing projects aimed at combating potato viruses—challenges that are becoming increasingly significant for the potato industry across the United States. Alex Karasev, a faculty member at the University of Idaho and …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Exciting season ahead for Eagles boys' and girls' teams

SOAP LAKE — As the spring tennis season approaches, excitement is palpable within the Soap Lake Tennis program. Head coach Lee Leavell said he remains optimistic about both the boys' and girls' teams as they begin a journey filled with hard work, growth and competition. Practices have kicked off, with …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

State Senate Bill has proposed restrictions on weapons in public spaces

OLYMPIA — A bill to increase restrictions on firearms in public places has passed in the Washington State Senate.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

ACH baseball ready to swing for the fences in 2025

COULEE CITY — As the Almira/Coulee-Hartline baseball team gears up for the 2024 season, excitement fills the air, especially after a commendable last season that culminated in a second-place finish at the state championship. Head Coach Hunter Lee is optimistic about what lies ahead, especially with a roster boasting considerable …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Grant PUD appoints John Mertlich as new general manager and CEO

EPHRATA – John Mertlich is the new general manager and chief executive officer of the Grant County Public Utility District, PUD commissioners announced Tuesday. The decision was announced during the Commission's meeting Tuesday. Mertlich's official start date is today. He succeeds Rich Wallen, who is leaving to take a position …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Warriors take second in tight championship round

SPOKANE – The Spokane Arena was roaring; the score was 50-49 for Almira-Coulee/Hartline with less than a minute left in the fourth quarter. Despite ACH’s best efforts, the Lummi Nation Black Hawks pulled ahead with less than 60 seconds left, winning the championship game with a score of 53-50.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

North Elementary re-opened after water incident last week

MOSES LAKE – North Elementary will be reopen for normal operations Today, Tuesday March 11 after it was closed last Wednesday due to an issue with water quality caused by nearby work being conducted by the city of Moses Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Open Doors Sleep Center’s future uncertain

MOSES LAKE – On Monday, city officials from Moses Lake, Soap Lake, Warden and Royal City alongside Grant County Commissioner Rob Jones met at the Open Doors Sleep Center for a tour of the facility and to discuss the future of the shelter.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Vehicle hits cyclist in Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE – Friday at around 8:15 p.m., Grant County Fire District 7 was dispatched to a vehicle vs. bicyclist collision on Highway 28 near Franklin Street in Soap Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLSD announces plan in light of Groff closure

MOSES LAKE – Groff Elementary will be closed for the rest of the school year, according to an announcement from Moses Lake School District Superintendent Carol Lewis at the March 6 school board meeting. As a result, district officials have initiated plans to ensure Groff students continue their education without …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Columbia MS has peaceful Friday after reported threat

MOSES LAKE – On Wednesday the Moses Lake School District was made aware of a potential threat related to Columbia Middle School for Friday, according to MLSD Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLSD finance director resigns

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Executive Director of Business and Operations, Mitchell Thompson, during a school board meeting held on March 6, 2025. Thompson’s resignation is set to take effect on June 30, 2025.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

MLSD recognizes Lewis, receives finance update

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District had a regular board meeting March 6 to acknowledge Superintendent Carol Lewis, update on finances, pass several policies and finalize a letter to the superintendent of public instruction and the governor.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake Liaison Committee eyes partnership with CBCD

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Lake Liaison Committee held a meeting Friday, inviting Ron Sawyer, the Conservation Director with the Columbia Basin Conservation District, to discuss potential collaborative efforts to address environmental concerns surrounding the city’s beloved lake. Sawyer, who brought extensive knowledge and experience in conservation practices, was …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Groff Elem. to be closed remainder of school year

MOSES LAKE – Groff Elementary will be closed for the remainder of the school year, according to Moses Lake School District Superintendent Carol Lewis at the March 6 regular school board meeting. “What has been done is lots of testing, lots of repairs,” Lewis said. “We first have to figure …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

North Elem. to remain closed Monday

MOSES LAKE – North Elementary was closed Wednesday after an unforeseen water issue where sediment got into the schools' pipelines. The school was supposed to reopen Monday. However, because testing done by the Grant County Health District will not be done until Monday, the school will remain closed, Moses Lake …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake passes six-year transpo plan

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council unanimously passed its six-year transportation improvement program for the Washington State Department of Transportation. There are 10 projects planned for the next six years.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

MLSD institutes security protocols after Columbia Middle School threat

MOSES LAKE – On Wednesday at around 11:45 a.m. the Moses Lake School District was made aware of a potential threat related to Columbia Middle School for Friday, according to MLSD Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry relocating

SOAP LAKE — The Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry is officially moving to its new location – a five-acre “raw” plot of land located in rural Soap Lake a couple of miles away from the current location. However, Shawna Kluge, who starts and runs the shelter, said she needs communities …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

GCFD7 gets new Jaws of Life from community donations

SOAP LAKE — Grant County Fire District 7 announced that it has gotten a new Jaws of Life rescue tool, thanks to the support of community members, local businesses and charitable foundations. The new equipment, which includes a cutter, spreader, ram and combination tool, will enhance the department’s rapid response …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Prescribed fire planned for Sagebrush Flat Wildlife Area

EPHRATA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has announced plans to conduct prescribed burns across approximately 250 acres within the Sagebrush Flat Unit of the Sagebrush Flat Wildlife Area this March. The burn aims to reduce the risk and severity of future wildfires while improving habitats for various …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

North Elementary closes due to water issues

MOSES LAKE – North Elementary was closed Wednesday after an unforeseen water issue and will remain closed throughout the rest of the week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

North Elementary closed Wednesday after water issue

MOSES LAKE – North Elementary was closed Wednesday after an unforeseen water issue. According to Moses Lake School District’s Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon, the City of Moses Lake has construction underway nearby, opened a fire hydrant and debris got into the water. Then, when teachers started to arrive …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

GALLERY: Mat Classic 2025

TACOMA – During Mat Classic XXXVI, five Columbia Basin wrestlers came home with championships and three wrestling teams finished in the top three. Four Basin wrestlers finished second and nine finished third with several other students placing in the top eight.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Area districts respond to OSPI immigration guidelines

OLYMPIA —The Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction released guidelines in January outlining practices it said are to ensure the protection of immigrant students' rights in K-12 public schools. The OSPI report comes after President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14148 rescinded a policy that limited Immigration and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Wildcats win sole possession GNAC title with dramatic comeback against Simon Fraser

BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Central Washington University men’s basketball team defeated Simon Fraser University 73-70 Saturday night at the West Gym. This victory not only marked an impressive comeback for the Wildcats but also secured them sole possession of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference Regular Season Title and a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

‘Many others might have given up after such an injury, but not her’

OTHELLO – From the moment she stepped onto the mat as a young wrestler, Othello High School junior Alejandria Espindola had dreams of reaching the pinnacle of her sport. “It feels amazing because finally, my hard work and dedication have paid off,” Espindola said. “Coming from a really tough injury …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Illegal burn escapes, consumes 61 acres near Ephrata

EPHRATA – An illegal burn in the 12500 block of Road C.3 NW escalated into a significant wildfire on Friday, threatening nearby residences and posing challenges for firefighting crews, according to a statement from Grant County Fire District 13. “It definitely is a large fire,” GCFD 13 Battalion Chief Mathew …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

ACH girls triumph over Willapa Valley

COULEE CITY — The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Warriors secured a decisive 58-22 victory against the visiting Willapa Valley Vikings on Feb. 25. The non-league challenge at ACH's home court showcased the Warriors' growth and evolution under the direction of first-year head coach Nikki Strock.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

Three stitches and a championship

RITZVILLE – With sweat glistening on his brow and blood dripping down his eye bandage, Brock Tracy, a senior wrestler from Lind-Ritzville High School, etched his name into the annals of state championship history at the Mat Classic. This season’s grappling events culminated in an electrifying moment as Tracy claimed …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO

One championship claimed, aiming for more

COULEE CITY — In a display of skill and tenacity, Noah Butler, a sophomore wrestler from Almira/Coulee-Hartline High School, captured the state championship title in Tacoma last weekend. With a season record of 39 wins and two losses Butler triumphed in the 215-pound weight class at the Mat Classic tournament. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

GCSO asks for community assistance with two cases

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Detectives are seeking assistance regarding one case but two different aspects of the case – one regarding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and the other regarding a young girl who was at Slices Pizza.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Four pins and a championship win

EPHRATA – In the bustling atmosphere of the Washington State Wrestling Championship, Adylene Sanchez, a 155-pound junior from Ephrata achieved what many thought was impossible: she ascended from three years of competition—without a placement—to becoming a state champion. “It was very emotional,” Sanchez said on her win. “I was already …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Acting SLPD chief investigation discussed during city council

SOAP LAKE – At the Feb. 19 Soap Lake city council meeting, a public comment was made by Karen Dillon, a former City of Soap Lake employee. During her comment, Dillon brought up the Sept. 16, 2022, investigation of acting Soap Lake Police Department Chief Robert Geates during which he …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Moses Lake woman found deceased

MOSES LAKE – On Monday night, 60-year-old Rauline Silva was found deceased behind the Moses Lake Safeway according to Grant County Coroner Craig Morrison. A person had called into the Moses Lake Police Department at around 9:40 p.m., reporting an unconscious woman behind the store, according to MLPD Captain Jeff …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD board determines no civil rights infringement

MOSES LAKE – In the Feb. 20 meeting of the Moses Lake School Board, the issue of equity in physical education resurfaced, spurred by a civil rights complaint submitted by Larry Dagnon, a teacher at North Elementary which he presented at the previous Feb. 6 meeting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Othello's Solorio crowned state champ in 215 bracket

OTHELLO – Anthony Solorio, a senior at Othello High School, achieved a lifelong dream over the weekend, capturing the state championship title in the boys 2A wrestling competition at 215 pounds with a record of 36-13.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

48 Columbia Basin wrestlers place at Mat Classic

TACOMA — Five Columbia Basin wrestlers came home with championships and three wrestling teams finished in the top three at Mat Classic XXXVI last weekend. Four Basin wrestlers finished second and nine finished third. The champions include Almira/Coulee-Hartline’s Noah Butler, at 215 pounds; Ephrata’s Adylene Sanchez, 155; Brock Tracy, Lind-Ritzville, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Nine Basin wrestlers compete in Mat Classic finals

TACOMA – Nine wrestlers, five boys and four girls, from area schools were set to compete in the finals round at the Tacoma Dome. The matches were not complete as of press time. Mat Classic final matches are listed below without outcomes. Results of these matches and full results of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Mat Classic update 2025

TACOMA – The Mat Classic continued for its second day Friday with several teams from the Columbia Basin competing. The day started with 2A boys, 1A Boys, 1B/2B Boys, 2A Girls and 1B/2B/1A Girls. Then the second half of the day was the consultation rounds and championship finals for 3A …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLHS girls place sixth after first day at Mat Classic

TACOMA – The Moses Lake High School girls wrestling team competed at the Tacoma Dome with 11 wrestlers competing across several weight classes. The girls, at around 7 p.m. Thursday, were in sixth place with 95.5 points. However, several matches are still ahead. The day kicked off with freshman Kayla …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Mavs boys in 12th after first day of Mat Classic

TACOMA – The Moses Lake High School boys wrestlers won most of their matches in the opening round of the Mat Classic tournament in Tacoma. Getting into second-round matches though, several wrestlers lost their bouts and went into the consolation bracket. As of 5:30 p.m. Thursday, the boys were in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Fairy tales meet marathons

EPHRATA —This weekend, Ephrata audiences will step into a whimsical world where fairy tales meet marathons and laughter dances in the air like confetti. Ephrata High School’s drama department invites the community to join them for a double feature: “Race Day” and “Snow White and the Seven Endings” are taking …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata HS Honor Society hosting Oscars for character awards

EPHRATA — The Ephrata High School Honor Society will host its fourth annual Oscar Night today. The event starts at 7 p.m. in the Ephrata High School commons. “It was four years ago; our honor society president came up with the idea for it,” EHS National Honor Society advisor Sheila …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD eighth graders begin preparing for high school

MOSES LAKE — Vanguard Academy and Moses Lake High School students and staff spent time at Columbia Middle School Wednesday sharing the programs and opportunities available for incoming freshmen. “The academic journey for our eighth-grade students in the Moses Lake School District continued today with the first of three curriculum …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Investigation on former GCFD4 chief concludes, case heads to prosecutor

WARDEN — The investigation into Kevin Whitaker, the former fire chief of Grant County Fire District 4 in Warden who has been accused of theft and forgery, has been completed and is now under review by the Grant County Prosecuting Attorney’s office for possible criminal charges. The investigation began on …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Four proposed bills examined by Enviro and Energy Committee

OLYMPIA – The House Environmental and Energy Committee heard four proposed bills Feb. 13. The four bills, if passed, would have impacts on agriculture, low-income energy assistance, water system rate changes and insurance for public utility districts like the Grant PUD.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

One booked, another unidentified in rural business burglary

MOSES LAKE – A 24-year-old Moses Lake man was apprehended by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reduction Team and other law enforcement Friday during a burglary in a rural area of Moses Lake, according to a GCSO statement.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MACC addresses audit findings

OLYMPIA – An audit report released on February 13, 2025, by the Washington State Auditor’s Office has identified significant deficiencies in the financial management and internal controls of the Multi Agency Communications Center for the fiscal years of 2022 and 2023. This report, designated as Report No. 1036601, highlights the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

SLPD Chief fired for alleged misconduct

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox has been terminated, according to a statement from the city. However, Cox also held the role as the city administrator. No statement regarding his role of city administrator has been released from the city. Cox was initially placed on administrative leave …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

CBIT continues jail death investigation

EPHRATA – The Central Basin Investigative Team determined that Richard Lambert’s death at the Grant County Jail was due to sepsis caused by an accident prior to his arrest, according to a statement from Ephrata Police Department Captain Troy Froewiss. Froewiss was not available for comment Thursday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. Fairgrounds getting upgrades

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Fairgrounds is installing around $1 million in upgrades, according to Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan. The upgrades include new light towers and lighting at gates, additional cameras, a new public address system, improved fencing, removing track from the rodeo grounds, new bleachers for the rodeo …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Birding guides in the Basin

MOSES LAKE — As birding season continues in Eastern Washington; outdoor enthusiasts increasingly turn to local guides and outfitters to enhance their experience in the field. These businesses provide services that make hunting accessible while offering expert knowledge about local wildlife and landscapes. The Columbia Basin is home to several …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Black History Month celebrated at B&G clubs of the Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE – The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin invited Maryamu Givens to speak about Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday Friday as part of a presentation for Black History Month.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake appoints mayor pro tem, council member steps down

SOAP LAKE — Karen Woodhouse was named mayor pro tem at the Feb. 5 Soap Lake City Council meeting. The council passed Woodhouse’s appointment unanimously. Council Member JoAnne Rushton also gave the council a letter prior to the meeting stepping down from her role on the council, opening a city …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Port of Ephrata approves roof repair

EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata passed a resolution approving a $158,000 roof repair for Hangar 405 at its meeting Monday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake council members earn certifications

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake City Council Member Susan Carson recently earned a Certificate of Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities, a program designed to enhance the skills and effectiveness of elected officials across the state, according to an announcement from Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp. Carson and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata businesses offer ideas for Valentine’s Day

EPHRATA — Valentine's Day is coming up tomorrow and Harrison’s Diamonds, The Glamour Garage and 1:49 Designs all have a few ideas to help locals celebrate the holiday. “Valentine's Day isn’t just for people in relationships. It’s a day of love, which includes self-love,” Glamour Garage owner Allison Scott said. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD levy passing

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District Educational Programs and Operations levy was leading with yes votes by 58.77% on Tuesday night when 10,058 of the ballots were counted. The next ballot count will be Feb. 13. “First, I would like to thank the community and those that supported …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. working to update plan to address homelessness

EPHRATA – Grant County has announced its intention to hire a strategic planning consultant to help develop its updated Homeless Housing Five-Year Strategic Plan. The deadline for proposals is 3 p.m. March 12 with a completion target for the updated plan in December 2025.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

'We don't have to hate each other just because we disagree'

MOSES LAKE – In a time marked by increasing polarization and divisive rhetoric, the Project for Civic Health in Washington state aims to foster respectful dialogue and collaboration across party lines.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Safer Internet Day promotes education around children using tech

MOSES LAKE – Today is Safer Internet Day, the global observance is a time to bring attention to internet crimes against children and what can be done to reduce the risk of a child becoming a victim online. “Be a part of your child's life and make sure that you …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake teen found after missing for 15 days

MOSES LAKE – Treyson Brooks, 15, went missing from his group home in Vancouver Jan. 24. He was placed in the facility for advanced care for his special needs and medical condition. Brooks was found in Gresham, Oregon on Feb. 8. He has been returned to his mother, Amy Jackson, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

MLSD levy decision tomorrow

MOSES LAKE – Voters must cast their votes by 8 p.m. Tuesday evening in the Moses Lake School District’s educational programs and operations levy. Initial results will be available that night, though a final count will take a bit due to Washington’s mail-in voting system. The levy proposal is for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Immigration protest held in Moses Lake Saturday

MOSES LAKE – Saturday afternoon, around 250 people gathered in protest of immigrant deportations on the sidewalks along North Stratford Road in Moses Lake. According to several protesters, there were sightings of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement trucks spotted in both Othello and Warden Friday and Saturday. However, this information …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Quincy man faces controlled substance homicide charge

QUINCY – On Thursday, Abraham Cristobal Flores Velazquez, 32, of Quincy was arrested for controlled substance homicide in relation to a Yakima overdose death. The arrest was made by Yakima County’s Law Enforcement Against Drugs task force, after which he was transferred to detectives from the Grant County Interagency Narcotics …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

'It’s a killer show’

Prepare to don your detective hats and gather your wits, because the Masquers Theater is about to unravel a mystery that promises both laughter and intrigue.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

SLPD chief now 13 weeks on paid admin leave, investigation ongoing

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox was placed on paid administrative leave on Nov. 15, 2024, making it 13 weeks, today. Robert Geates has been the acting police chief since Cox was placed on leave. Mayor Peter Sharp confirmed an investigation was underway.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata students give insight into proposed EP&O levy

EPHRATA – On Feb. 11, the Ephrata School District will have results from the proposed Education Programs and Operations levy on the ballot. The levy is seeking to collect approximately $11.5 million over the next four years at a proposed rate of $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

MLHS musicians shine at NCWMEA competition

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School choir, piano, guitar and band students showcased their musical talents at the North Central Washington Music Educators Association Regional Solo & Ensemble Competition held on Saturday, Jan. 25, in Wenatchee.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Mysteries, murders and mayhem at Masquers Theater

SOAP LAKE – “Clue: On Stage” cast members gather around Miss Scarlet (Jessica Stredwick) and Mr. Boddy’s briefcase. The briefcase, locked, supposedly holds all of the partygoers' darkest secrets. From left to right in the back is Mr. Green (Blane Schafer), Mrs. Peacock (Victoria Drake), Colonel Mustard (Dave Stearns), Yvette …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Two teens steal 'copious amount' of marijuana

SOAP LAKE — A cannabis shop was hit by a burglary early Friday morning, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. At around 1:30 a.m. Friday, GCSO deputies were dispatched to an intrusion alarm at 2020 Solutions, a dispensary in the 200 block of SR 28 in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata Rec Center, City Hall receive HVAC upgrades

EPHRATA — Upgrades to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning at the Ephrata Recreation Center are now complete. “The Ephrata Rec is one of our oldest buildings in the city and (upgrading it) is really impressive to get done,” Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim said. “We're really happy with it, and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata FBLA brings home 14 titles, 28 state qualifiers

EPHRATA — The Ephrata High School Future Business Leaders of America club had 28 students compete in the Winter Leadership Conference at Grays Harbor College Jan. 31. All 28 qualified in the event and 14 students were regional champions. “Well, I'm really proud of the fact that we had more …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

GCSO deputies visit with Quincy fourth graders

QUINCY – Grant County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Aaron Young and Gunnar Hinds stopped by George Elementary in Quincy to talk with fourth grade students Tuesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Legislators eye Climate Commitment Act funding for road projects

OLYMPIA — As Washington state's roads continue to deteriorate and transportation funding faces significant challenges, Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Olympia, is calling for a public hearing on House Bill 1324. This proposed legislation aims to redirect excess revenues from the Climate Commitment Act toward urgent road projects, seeking to alleviate a …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

MLSD Financial Oversight Committee meets for first time

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District hosted its first Financial Oversight Committee meeting Jan. 29. The committee is a volunteer-based group of local professionals from industries including accounting, finance and similar fields. The group was established to hold the district to another level of accountability with its finances.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Warden brothers open dispensary in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – The grand opening for Grant County’s newest dispensary, Green Roads Cannabis happened Friday. The dispensary is owned and operated by two Warden brothers, Eddie and Rolando Rodriguez. The new store is located on 224 West Valley Road in the former Valley Eye Care building.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

CBIT continues investigation on Grant Co. Jail death

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Police Department Captain Troy Froewiss released a statement regarding Central Basin Investigations Team regarding the death of Richard Lambert in the Grant County Jail. Lamber was found deceased in his bunk at the Grant County Jail Dec. 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Three Quincy residents booked for fuel theft, possessing stolen goods

QUINCY – On Thursday morning, three Quincy residents were arrested after their vehicle ran out of fuel with a bed full of suspected stolen property, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

3 Quincy residents booked for fuel theft, possessing stolen goods

QUINCY – On Thursday morning, three Quincy residents were arrested after their vehicle ran out of fuel with a bed full of suspected stolen property, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO

Superintendents discuss reading, math skills locally, statewide

OLYMPIA – The National Center for Education Statistics released the 2024 results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress Thursday, revealing that Washington’s fourth grade students continue to outperform many peers nationally in reading and math, while eighth graders experienced a decline, particularly in math.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Two major power outages in Grant County

MARDON — On both Wednesday and Thursday, Grant Public Utility District had large-scale power outages. A major outage affects more than 50 customers, according to the PUD.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata SD welcomes new board member: Casey Devine

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board swore in its newest member, Casey Devine, at the Jan. 27 meeting. Devine describes herself as an educator, parent and community advocate with deep roots in Ephrata. Devine will be serving the rest of Anita Waller’s term which expires at the end of 2025. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Ephrata School Board focuses on attendance, funding in regular meeting

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District board met for a regular meeting Jan. 27 and swore in a new board member, received an update on district attendance, approved grants and purchases and discussed the district’s budget – including the upcoming Educational Programs and Operations levy which is on the Feb. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Potato farmers, scientists, pros gather in Kennewick

KENNEWICK – The Washington and Oregon Potato Conference is happening this week at the Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick with farmers from throughout Eastern Washington visiting with academics, politicians, distributors and a variety of vendors to discuss all things potatoes. Full coverage of the event will be in the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Washington legislators consider universal health care

OLYMPIA — The Washington Health Trust, a statewide initiative for universal health care, is supporting proposals introduced in both the Senate and House (House Bill 1445 and Senate Bill 5233), according to a statement from the group.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Structure fire in Grand Coulee, one fatality

GRAND COULEE – The Grand Coulee Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a single-wide trailer fire near 122 B Street in Grand Coulee at around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Two booked for weekend domestic violence incidents

MOSES LAKE – Over the weekend, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office dealt with two instances of alleged domestic violence, both ended with an individual booked into the Grant County Jail.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD levy impacts on safety, health and facilities

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District has an Educational Programs and Operations levy on the Feb. 11 ballot. The levy and whether it passes or not, will have impacts on school resource officers, nursing staff and facilities and maintenance according to the district.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Exploring proposed state legislation: Senate bills 5054 and 5055

OLYMPIA – In 2025, Washington State will see two bills aimed at supporting the state’s wine industry and promoting agritourism. Sponsored by 13th District Senator Judy Warnick, these bills—Senate Bill 5054 and Senate Bill 5055—according to Warnick support the ongoing efforts to bolster local economies, encourage sustainable practices and ensure …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

MLSD considers Vanguard Academy options

MOSES LAKE — During a Jan. 16 work study meeting, the Moses Lake School Board reviewed a series of proposals to adjust the facilities and educational offerings of Vanguard Academy for the 2025-26 academic year, according to a statement from the district. “This was an important opportunity to gather input …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

'We had our best revenue year ever'

EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata has made significant strides in 2024, achieving several key objectives designed to enhance its economic viability and improve operational capacity, according to the port’s Executive Director David Lanman. “I think it went pretty darn good,” Lanman said. “We had a very productive year, and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata looks back at ‘24, plans for ‘25

EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata experienced significant growth and development during 2024, according to Mayor Bruce Reim. In 2025, city officials are optimistic about continuing momentum.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

EPD highlights last year's achievements, plans for this year

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department made significant strides in officer training and technology this last year, according to Chief Erik Koch.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

'More than a dream'

MOSES LAKE – Monday night, a group of around 35 people wearing white hoodies blared and sang to music as they walked down fifth avenue as the sun set on downtown Moses Lake. The group shared laughs. The children ran and teased one another. Signs were waved proudly at passing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLK essay contest winners announced

MOSES LAKE – During the Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. event Monday, the winners of the Martin Luther King Jr. essay writing contest for Columbia Middle School students were announced.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD in-person town hall today

MOSES LAKE — Today Moses Lake School District Superintendent Carol Lewis will host another in-person town hall to answer questions about current events, concerns or feedback in the district. The town hall will be from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Learning Services Center at 1620 S. Pioneer Way.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Junk vehicles to be removed in Larson community

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reduction team will begin to remove junk vehicles from the Larson area this week, according to an announcement from the GCSO.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Three MLHS seniors discuss levy election impacts

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is running an Educational Programs and Operations Levy on the Feb. 11 ballot. MLSD students Javier Gonzalez, Jaciel Valdez and Andee Stevens said they’ve felt the impacts of the double levy failure in 2024.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Soap Lake City Council considering elimination of lake water use

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council met for its first meeting of the year Wednesday. The meeting began with an executive session in regard to the performance of a public employee with no action following. Lake water usage, officer recognition and other items were addressed afterward.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Law enforcement software changes present challenges, opportunities

MOSES LAKE— The Grant County Sheriff’s Office and municipal police departments in Grant County switched from Spillman to 365 Labs for its law enforcement software at the beginning of 2025. Since the upgrade, departments have been learning the new software and certain functions are still being discovered, workshopped and taught …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata Fire’s 2024 year in review

EPHRATA — As the Ephrata Fire Department begins a new year, 2024 proved to be a transformative period, according to Chief Jeremy Burns. The department saw significant achievements in operational efficiency, community engagement and volunteer involvement. Burns talked about the department's accomplishments over the past year and outlined goals for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata School District super reflects on challenges of 2024

EPHRATA — As 2025 begins, the Ephrata School District is assessing the changes and challenges it faced last year. Superintendent Ken Murray discussed several crucial accomplishments and objectives for the future and the district's continued commitment to its students and community in an interview with the Columbia Basin Herald.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden passes water system plan and parks and recreation developments

WARDEN — The Warden City Council convened on Jan. 14 to discuss significant developments concerning the city’s water system and its Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan. The meeting featured staff reports detailing ongoing projects and strategic planning for community enhancement, alongside formal resolutions for the future direction of local …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

‘To Washington, I bid you fair winds and following seas’

OLYMPIA — In his final State of the State address delivered before a joint session of the Washington Legislature on Jan. 12, Governor Jay Inslee reflected on his 12 years in office and emphasized the achievements and challenges that lie ahead for Washington state.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Dent outlines his priorities for WA’s 2025 session

OLYMPIA – As Washington State begins its 2025 legislative session today, Rep. Tom Dent, the 13th District's legislative representative, prepares to tackle a myriad of pressing issues while navigating the complexities of a newly transitioned administration.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Sen. Warnick outlines legislative priorities for 2025 session

OLYMPIA — In anticipation of the upcoming 2025 legislative session, starting today, Washington State Senator Judy Warnick discussed her key priorities and strategies aimed at improving policies that impact her constituents. As she prepares for the session, Warnick said she is keenly aware of the challenges posed by a shifting …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Grant Co. upgrades law enforcement software

MOSES LAKE – Grant County, with the assistance of the Multi-Agency Communications Center – 911, switched its law enforcement reporting software at the beginning of 2025. The new software is a cloud-based platform with more assets and less crashes than the previous program which the county has been using since …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Moses Lake School District EP&O levy on February ballot

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District will submit an educational programs and operations levy to district voters on the Feb. 11 ballot. The levy, using local taxes, provides funding for programs and services beyond the state’s basic education requirements.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

GCAO animal adoptions double in 2024

MOSES LAKE – Grant County Animal Outreach reported a significant increase in adoptions for the year 2024. The shelter successfully placed 582 cats and dogs into new homes, nearly doubling the figure from the previous year. The rise in adoptions marks an important milestone for the organization, which has actively …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Environmental group highlights goals for upcoming legislative session

OLYMPIA — The 2025 Washington legislative session will begin Monday and the Washington Conservation Action’s Environmental Priorities Coalition has four goals for the upcoming session: advanced clean trucks and climate progress, climate action, sewage spill right-to-know and the recycling reform act. The EPC met for a press conference on Tuesday …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Lind-Ritzville schools discussing four-day school week

RITZVILLE — Lind-Ritzville Cooperative Schools is considering switching to a four-day school week instead of its current five-day week. LRCS will host a coffee with Superintendent Don Vanderholm on Jan. 10 from 8 to 9 a.m. at the WSU extension office in Ritzville. The meeting will have opportunities to discuss …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Three juveniles booked for alleged vehicle theft and eluding police

MATTAWA — Three juveniles were arrested Saturday for stealing a car in Mattawa at around 6:30 a.m. followed by a short police pursuit near Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Fifteen WA bills enacted in the new year

OLYMPIA – At the beginning of 2025, a suite of fifteen Washington bills became law, transforming key areas from health care to workers’ rights, to cosmetics.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Excitement builds for the 2025 Northwest Hay Expo

KENNEWICK — The annual Northwest Hay Expo is once again set to attract agriculture professionals to Kennewick, Washington, on January 15 and 16, 2025. As the largest hay and forage expo on the West Coast, this event promises to be both an educational and networking hub for industry leaders from …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

More than 700 ACPR animals found homes in 2024

OTHELLO — The Adams County Pet Rescue had a successful year taking in 604 dogs and 432 cats in 2024. Of those pets, 383 dogs and 321 cats found their forever homes. There were 180 transfers to other shelters.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata businesses thrived this holiday season

EPHRATA – As the holiday season concludes, some local businesses said this year was particularly good. The Bells on Basin celebration attracted a crowd into Ephrata businesses for the celebration but also people buying gifts for their loved ones helped stimulate these small establishments.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO

Carter passes at 100: Local leaders respond to a President's passing

PLAINS, Georgia — Former 39th President Jimmy Carter died at 100 years of age Sunday. Carter, a Georgia peanut farmer, began his presidency in 1977 after he defeated 39th President Gerald R. Ford in the General Election. Carter served one term and left office in 1981 after losing to Ronald …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Inslee reflects on tenure during exit interview

OLYMPIA – In an exit interview conducted by Austin Jenkins on TVW's “Inside Olympia”, Governor Jay Inslee reflected on his twelve years in office, highlighting his accomplishments, disappointments and the pivotal moments in his tenure. As he prepares to transition leadership to Governor-elect Bob Ferguson, Inslee emphasized the unique challenges …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Othello, ACSO, WSP officers bring holiday cheer

OTHELLO – Blue and red lights flashed, and sirens blared down East Main Street in Othello Saturday before turning into the Walmart parking lot. A handful of police vehicles from Othello Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Office and Washington State Patrol made laps around the store's parking lot, children waving …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO

Jensen, Urias continue as president, VP of MLSD board

MOSES LAKE – During the Dec. 19 regular Moses Lake school board meeting the board elected new representees for board positions.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

GCFD4 Chief on admin leave, under investigation for malfeasance

WARDEN – Grant County Fire District 4 Fire Chief Kevin Whitaker has been placed on unpaid administrative leave. Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman confirmed there is an ongoing investigation for malfeasance through GCSO which began in late November.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Stray finds health and a home through community support

MOSES LAKE – Helio, also known as Henry, is a 12-year-old collie mix, who arrived at the Grant County Animal Outreach Oct. 17 after being abandoned in Moses Lake. He had a desperate need for dental care. The animal rescue assumed he would lose all of his teeth and asked …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD Board endorses upcoming levy

MOSES LAKE —During the regular session of the Moses Lake School District board meeting held Thursday, board members unanimously endorsed the upcoming levy aimed at enhancing educational resources and opportunities for students. Board Chair Kirryn Jensen emphasized the importance of the levy in sustaining the district's educational quality.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

MLSD superintendent issues apology on behalf of district

MOSES LAKE — In a recent video announcement, Carol Lewis, the superintendent of Moses Lake School District, acknowledged significant breaches of trust between the school district and the community. “I realize that an apology is necessary,” Lewis said in the video.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata School Board reorganized and bus finances handled

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School Board conducted a meeting on Dec. 16, welcoming new leadership and providing updates on the district’s transportation levy.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO

Asian giant hornet officially eradicated in Washington

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture has announced the successful eradication of the northern giant hornet, a five-year effort involving state officials, local landowners, beekeepers and citizen scientists. The group effort eliminated the invasive species from the state when it could have spread from the northwestern corner of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Inslee proposes 2025 budget

OLYMPIA — Outgoing Washington Governor Jay Inslee delivered his budget proposal for 2025 during a press conference Tuesday, revealing a plan that aims to tackle a projected $16 billion budget shortfall over the next four years. "We have been successful as a state because we've always hewed to the basic …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Vehicle, snowplow collision Monday morning

EPHRATA — On Monday morning, a 21-year-old from Ephrata, identified as Charles Cole, was driving a 2009 Hyundai Sonata at high speed and lost control on Sagebrush Flats Road Northwest.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Warden SD discusses annex, driver’s ed

WARDEN – During the Warden School District board meeting Thursday evening, district officials addressed the future of the city’s annex building and driver’s education programs. Additional topics included enrollment and an anaphylaxis policy update.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Law enforcement looking for risky driving statewide Saturday

OLYMPIA – This year's Night of 1,000 Stars will be this Saturday state-wide, where officers from local agencies and the Washington State Patrol will be looking for people driving under the influence, speeding, aggressive behavior and other traffic violations.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

SLPD chief on administrative leave

SOAP LAKE – Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox is on paid administrative leave as an ongoing investigation occurs, according to acting SLPD chief Robert Geates.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata pushing forward with infrastructure upgrades

EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata is currently undertaking several initiatives designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and address infrastructure needs across the community. These include water supply, parks, road maintenance and wastewater treatment projects.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

Ephrata High students raise money for foster children

EPHRATA – Ephrata High School students worked together to raise $8,700 to support local teenagers in foster care and shopping for “Toys for Teens”. The funds will be going towards buying those teenagers' gifts and necessities and any extra funding will go back to the Ephrata Food Bank.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO

61-year-old hospitalized after firearms incident

GEORGE – A 61-year-old George man was hospitalized Tuesday night after accidentally shooting himself during an assumed mental health crisis earlier Tuesday morning, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Washington wheat harvest: a promising year for farmers

MOSES LAKE ­­— As the harvest season concludes across the Pacific Northwest, the Washington wheat industry is witnessing a productive year marked by improved yields and conditions compared to 2023’s harvest. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service report, Washington’s winter wheat production for 2024 is …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO

Washington Cattlemen’s Association celebrates 99 years at annual tradeshow and convention

WENATCHEE — The Washington Cattlemen’s Association marked nearly a century of service to the cattle and agriculture industries during its Annual Tradeshow and Convention held from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. This year’s event attracted approximately 400 ranchers, industry professionals and stakeholders, exceeding the usual …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 12 MONTHS AGO

Grant Co. 2025 budget approved

EPHRATA — Grant County Commissioners unanimously passed the county’s 2025 budget with modifications to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office fund and cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, to be addressed in the upcoming week when they consider a resolution to adjust GCSO’s budget.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 MONTHS AGO

Ephrata passed 2025 budget

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council passed its 2025 budget unanimously at the Dec. 4 regular council meeting. The council also discussed an ordinance to make adjustments to the budget which was moved to a second reading and may be considered by vote at the next meeting on Dec. 18.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Local, federal authorities warn of holiday scams

MOSES LAKE – Scam text messages, phone calls and emails increase in frequency during the holiday season as criminals attempt to take advantage of people’s holiday spirit with a higher volume of fraud attempts during the Christmas season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Ephrata schools to move forward with spring levy election

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District Board unanimously approved a motion to run an Educational Programs and Operations levy on the Feb. 2025 ballot. The levy is not a new tax but instead will replace the 2021 voter-approved levy which will expire in 2025.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Construction begins on Ephrata’s first water tower

EPHRATA – After a long-anticipated wait, Ephrata moved its new water tower project forward Saturday by pouring 15,120 yards of concrete and laying around 67,800 feet of rebar to make the tower’s foundation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Geneva Scott celebrates 109 years alongside family

MOSES LAKE – Geneva Scott, 109, celebrated her birthday at the Jet A Way Cafe Sunday surrounded by her six generations of family, Safeway employees, pancakes and a hearty serving of cake and ice cream.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Grant Co. Jail, morgue projects updated

EPHRATA — Another piece of property is now under consideration as a possible location of the Grant County Morgue. Central Services Director Tom Gaines updated commissioners on the morgue project and construction of the new Grant County Jail Tuesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

SGL Carbon releases half-year and 9-month Results

MOSES LAKE – SGL Carbon SE recently released its financial reports for the first half and first nine months of 2024. It presented a mixed performance across its various business units, reflecting sector-specific dynamics and varying demand patterns.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

A few girls are going to 'make some noise'

EPHRATA – As the Ephrata girls wrestling team gears up for the 2024-25 season, Head Coach Raul Tejeda is optimistic about the prospects of a predominantly young team. He said they had six girls graduate last year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Unity and Teamwork — the strengths of Ephrata boys wrestling

EPHRATA – As the winter sports season approaches, Ephrata boys wrestling looks to build on last year’s successes while nurturing a blend of returning talent and new faces.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

OSPI data shows Basin schools performance

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction releases a report card with data about every school district in the state. The data is updated year-round as new information is reported to OSPI. This is the breakdown of school districts in Grant and Adams counties.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

MLSD addresses contract, assessments, snow and payroll

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District met for its normal meeting Nov. 21 to discuss a construction agreement with Absher Construction, state assessment data, snow removal and the finances surrounding payroll.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Itchy cows to blame for several power outages

WINCHESTER – There have been multiple intermittent power outages between Nov. 13 and Nov. 18 between Quincy and Ephrata. The Grant Public Utility District began investigating the outages which were impacting the Winchester area with patrols searching for the problem. After several days of searching and a two-night investigation, the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Ephrata School District awards $6,100 in grants

EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District recently held a special awards ceremony to present 12 “Teacher Classroom Grants” totaling $6,100 to 25 teachers in the district. The grants were distributed among Grant Elementary, Columbia Ridge Elementary and Ephrata Middle schools, supporting a variety of innovative educational projects aimed at enhancing …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Local clerks playing catch up after court system outages

EPHRATA – Technological troubles with the Washington Superior and District court systems have left county clerks working to catch up on backlogged cases.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

'Countless opportunities to grow and learn'

WARDEN – Annie Hindman has stepped into the role of principal at Warden Middle School, bringing experience in both education and juvenile justice. Raised on a farm in between Moses Lake and Warden, Hindman credits much of her dedication to education to her mother, who taught kindergarten and first grade …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Soap Lake passes ‘25 budget

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council unanimously passed its 2025 budget during its Nov. 20 regular meeting. The city received help from Finance Director Jeff Valentine this year and Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp thinks the process went smoother this year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Safeway heater starts sprinklers Tuesday

EPHRATA – A heater at the Ephrata Safeway triggered the building’s sprinkler system and a call to the Ephrata Fire Department Tuesday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Law enforcement gearing up for shop with a cop events

EPHRATA – As the holiday season approaches so does the annual shop with the cop events various police departments and sheriff’s offices put on yearly. Departments that are hosting the event this year include the Ephrata Police Department, Moses Lake Police Department, Othello Police Department, Quincy Police Department and Soap …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Vehicle thefts rise as temps cool

MOSES LAKE – As the weather gets chillier and residents are tempted to preheat vehicles and leave them unattended, both the Othello Police Department and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office released statements cautioning people against doing so because of potential vehicle thefts.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Harvest Market at fairgrounds tomorrow

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Farmers Market is having its first harvest market this Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Grant County Fairgrounds in the Commercial building. “At the (regular season) market we try to really focus on the farmers and the produce that we have …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

New nut on the block: Hazelnut farming takes root in Eastern Washington

WAPATO — In a landscape dominated by apple orchards and grape vineyards, hazelnut farming is entering the light in Eastern Washington, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Eastern Washington Hazelnut Association Vice President Jim Canaday. “It’s fun to work with the growers. We’re all just learning,” Canaday said. “But I …

BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Port of Ephrata passes budget, updates on new fuel

EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata Commissioners met Tuesday night to pass its 2025 budget including the tax levy. The board also discussed the Jet-A fuel project and the annual track inspection.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

'A brighter future, together'

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District appointed Carol Lewis as its permanent superintendent at the Nov. 7 school board meeting. This followed a period of transition during which she served as both assistant superintendent and interim superintendent.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Suspect reportedly slashes two in Grand Coulee

GRAND COULEE – During a party Sunday morning, a 17-year-old Grand Coulee boy allegedly slashed two people with a knife in Grand Coulee. The suspect was lodged in the Chelan County Juvenile Justice Center for first-degree assault and first-degree harassment, according to a statement from Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Boeing employees return to work

MOSES LAKE – Boeing is taking its first steps to fully restart airplane production in the Puget Sound region as thousands of IAM-represented employees return to work following a 52-day strike and subsequent contract agreement. Tuesday marked the last day striking employees could return to work. Employees began returning Nov. …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Wanted! More law enforcement officers

MOSES LAKE — Law enforcement agencies across Grant County are actively hiring officers and deputies. However, according to Moses Lake Police Department Captain Jeff Sursely and Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox, filling those spots is intricate and time-consuming.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

MLSD noncompliant with PE requirements

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District addressed concerns around physical education time requirements not being met at several schools in the district. The presentation was led by Executive Director of Elementary Education Robbie Mason.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

MLSD board backs away from forensic audit

MOSES LAKE – At the Moses Lake School District meeting on Nov. 7, there was an announcement from board member Paul Hill regarding the need for a forensic audit. Hill originally brought up the need for the forensic audit in the closing comments of the Aug. 22 meeting. However, in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Lewis voted in as MLSD superintendent

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake School District Interim Superintendent Carol Lewis was appointed to the permanent superintendent position at the MLSD board meeting Thursday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

MLSD welcomes new PR director

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has announced the appointment of Ryan Shannon as its new Director of Public Relations. Shannon, born in Washington with roots in the Yakima Valley, officially joined the district Nov. 4.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Pellicciotti leading in State Treasurer polls

OLYMPIA – Democrat incumbent Mike Pellicciotti is leading the polls for State Treasurer with 57.73% of voters. His opponent, Republican Sharon Hanek has 72.17% of voters.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

Mungia holds narrow lead WA Supreme Court race

OLYMPIA — State Supreme Court Pos. 2 candidate Sal Mungia led his opponent by a narrow margin of 0.8% of votes as of Friday night, according to the Washington Secretary of State’s office.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO

MLSD to pursue levy in Feb. 2025

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board unanimously passed a resolution to proceed with a proposed education program and operations levy. This decision will lead to a special election scheduled for February 11, 2025. “It's really going to be fun that the board can be involved this time,” MLSD …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO