Ephrata School District taking precautions at EHS after threat
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District issued a notice to the community Thursday afternoon after a threat was made online regarding Ephrata High School.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 0 MINUTES AGO
BBCC daycare shut down due to CPS case
MOSES LAKE – Big Bend Community College’s childcare facility closed effective Friday due to an ongoing Child Protective Services case, according to a BBCC statement. Big Bend Director of Communications Matt Killebrew said the cause for the investigation was self-reported by BBCC staff overseeing childcare operations, but details were not …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MINUTES AGO
Whooping cough cases surging
EPHRATA – Whooping Cough continues to have higher-than-expected case counts in Grant County and across the state of Washington according to a Grant County Health District press release. Medical professionals are asking the community to remain vigilant and take precautions to mitigate the spread of the bacteria that causes it.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 DAY, 23 HOURS AGO
Lt. Governor Heck wins bid for reelection
OLYMPIA – Incumbent Lt. Governor Denny Heck, a Democrat, campaigned to keep his seat from Republican challenger Dan Matthews.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK AGO
WA gets new governor for the first time since 2013
OLYMPIA – The Evergreen State is getting a new governor for the first time since Jay Inslee took office in 2013. The Democrat had announced that he wouldn’t run for another term earlier this year and the primary left Attorney General Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, facing Republican Dave Reichert, a …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO
Local medical coder focused on career building, role modeling
MOSES LAKE — Richa Sudlan started out thinking she wanted to help people and have a positive impact on their lives. She first considered a career in medicine, but along the way found a path to becoming a business intelligence analyst for the Moses Lake Community Health Center.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 WEEK, 1 DAY AGO
New criminal justice facility designed for future needs, safety
EPHRATA – More than 60% of voters approved a three-tenths of 1% sales tax increase to help fund a new Grant County Jail in 2019. Today, that jail is being realized with walls clearly visible to drivers that pass by the construction site on the southwest side of State Route …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. has a gang problem, but parents can protect children, police say
MOSES LAKE – Every community in the Columbia Basin is affected by gang activity to one extent or another. While recruiting efforts by gangs work to bring children in at very young ages, that doesn’t mean that parents and communities don’t have tools to fight the issue.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 WEEKS, 6 DAYS AGO
Port of Ephrata considers weeding options
EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata heard a presentation from local goat herder Lindsay Strong regarding the possibility of using goats to maintain the 160 acres the port has in its charge.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO
MLSD considers trust, past and future funding
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors and MLSD administration have begun discussing the process of putting forth a levy proposal to voters in the spring of 2025.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 3 DAYS AGO
Ballots arriving for Nov. elections
EPHRATA – Ballots for the 2024 General Election have begun arriving in mailboxes across Washington with several major races for voters to mark their preferences for. Among them are president, governor, Washington Supreme Court justices, Congressional seats and multiple initiatives.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 WEEKS, 1 DAY AGO
Ephrata council approves updates to fencing ordinance
EPHRATA – After tabling a public hearing on the issue about a month ago, the Ephrata City Council moved forward with approving updates to the city’s ordinance relating to fencing requirements. Staff with the city had recommended making the adjustments to ensure the code was easier to understand and set …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 WEEKS AGO
Electrify Expo offers surprising options
SEATTLE — The Electrify Expo welcomed thousands of visitors at the University of Washington’s campus. Vendors offering everything from battery-operated scooters for children and adults to motorcycles and full-sized electric vehicles showed a wide range of products on the market. Given announcements from REC Silicon over the last couple of …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO
Port of Ephrata hosts fly-in event, seeks more events
EPHRATA - The Association of Washington Aerial Applicators buzzed into Ephrata Friday to network and recertify with the Federal Aviation Administration. AWAA representative Anthony Root said the event, hosted by the port of Ephrata, allowed the organization’s members to show their professionalism and expertise.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH AGO
MLSD votes to press charges, but communication errors seem to be the cause
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District held an executive session during its Oct. 4 meeting and afterward came out to vote regarding transferring a case from Moses Lake Police Department regarding former Moses Lake School District Superintendent Josh Meek and financial issues that led to his departure from …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO
Port of Ephrata to host ag pilots Friday
EPHRATA – The Port of Moses Lake will play host to the Association of Washington Aerial Applicators for the group's 2nd Annual Fly-In Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The goal is to show the community what agricultural pilots do for the region.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO
On being a caretaker...
MOSES LAKE – Amy Bargelt grew up in the Marysville area, north of Seattle. Growing up, it was a small town, but it was eventually swallowed up by Seattle. “When I had my son, I didn’t want him to grow up in a little Seattle. I got to grow up …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO
Airplane finds an 'Always' home
Airplane finds an 'Always' home
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO
Chugging along
EPHRATA - Work on the upgrades to the Ephrata Amtrak station is continuing with the slab for the southern end of the platform having gone up in the last week. Amtrak representatives have previously said much of the work will increase accessibility at the facility for those with disabilities and …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 1 WEEK AGO
REC, Sila reach multi-year silane agreement after REC announces first shipment
MOSES LAKE – REC Silicon announced that an agreement had been finalized with Sila Nanotechnologies arranging for REC to provide Sila with silane gas for their production of Sila’s Titan Silicon, its trademarked anode material.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO
MLSD announces town halls to address financial issues
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District will be hosting a series of community events at various campuses to discuss the district’s current financial crisis, according to a letter from MLSD Interim Superintendent Carol Lewis.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata updating fence code, negotiating labor issues
EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata is working to update its building codes regarding fencing after fencing permits weren’t obtained for some new construction homes within city limits. Builders had thought the permit allowing them to build houses included the surrounding fences.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 MONTH, 3 WEEKS AGO
Royal City's Callahan Mfg. celebrates 55 years
ROYAL CITY – Walking into Callahan Manufacturing in Royal City, the first things a patron sees are loads of parts for tractors and other machinery. The second, at least on Tuesday afternoon, is a collie with bright white-blue eyes and a wagging tail.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO
Community Court celebrates two new grads
EPHRATA – Two more Grant County residents have gotten back on track after a lot of hard work on their part with support from the Grant County Community Court program, overseen by District Court Judge Brian Gwinn. “We are super proud of you,” Gwinn told graduate Mikayla Miley.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO
Heck, Matthews weigh in on Lt. Governor priorities
OLYMPIA – Lt. Governor Denny Heck, a Democrat from Vancouver, is running for reelection and voters will choose between him and Republican challenger Dan Matthews this November. Heck said his goal in an upcoming term is to keep moving toward better discourse across the aisle to improve quality of life …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS AGO
Crime Reduction Team promising in first few months
EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete said he’s very excited about the progress the Grant County Sheriff’s Office’s Crime Reduction Team has been able to make since it was implemented about two and a half months ago.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Devils focused on offensive precision, communication in ‘24
WILSON CREEK – The Wilson Creek Devils volleyball team may not have had the year they wanted last year, with a loss to the Soap Lake squad keeping them from state competition, but Coach Christa Christopherson said she’s ok with those losses in the short term as she works to …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
After the fire
DESERT AIRE - Scorched brush is all that is left after a small fire west of the Vernita Bridge last week. The fire didn't damage any structures and no one was hurt as a result of the blaze.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata church continues to clothe those in need
EPHRATA – The Ephrata Seventh Day Adventist Church continues to offer gently-used clothing to those in need every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., said parishioner Richard Withers, who runs the program with his wife Joan Withers and help from volunteers.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Desert Aire shooting leaves two minors injured
DESERT AIRE -- A shooting shortly after 8 p.m. at Desert Aire Park ended with two juveniles being shot, one with a minor injury to the leg and another being taken by helicopter to an area trauma center for life-threatening injuries, Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Bipartisan WA effort to combat fentanyl continues
MOSES LAKE – Washington’s Congressional delegation is working to combat the fentanyl crisis in the state and nation on a variety of fronts in our nation's capital. Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., Sens. Patty Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell, both Washington Democrats, all have efforts in place to mitigate the deadly …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
MLSD facility fees could shut down, cripple after-school programs
MOSES LAKE -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin may not be able to offer services at multiple Moses Lake School District campuses if proposed facility usage fees are implemented, the organization’s executive director, Kim Pope said in a Thursday interview.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
K-9 program presentation at Ephrata gathering
EPHRATA – An event requiring three K-9 handlers, and two K-9 officers took place at Sun Basin Plaza Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Fortunately, it was for a meet and greet with the public, hosted by the Ephrata Public Library.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Dateline wherever ...
If you’re reading this, you’ve seen a few datelines in your time. That city name at the beginning of a news article. Do you know what it means and why it’s put there, though?
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. Fairgrounds evacuated after shooting
MOSES LAKE – The carnival portion of the Grant County Fairgrounds was closed down and evacuated Friday evening after a shooting occurred shortly after 9 p.m., according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata school budget approved at about $51 million
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District passed its budget in late July with anticipated expenditures from its general fund totaling slightly more than $51 million for the 2024-25 school year, according to documentation provided by the district.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO
Labor costs a challenge for asparagus growers, but opportunities exist
ELTOPIA — While the crop has been good overall, Washington Asparagus Commission Executive Director Alan Schreiber said the state’s asparagus industry is in crisis. “There is no two ways about it,” he said. “The Washington asparagus industry is in trouble with a capital T, and it’s in trouble because we …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 3 MONTHS AGO
Blueberry crop looking healthy as WA continues to dominate industry
ELTOPIA — Washington continues to dominate the American blueberry market with the state producing more than any other state or Canada, said Washington Blueberry Commission Executive Director Alan Schreiber. “We’re the number-one producer. Forty-five percent is in the greater Columbia Basin, so the Columbia Basin and Yakima Valley. Fifty-five percent …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata National Guard unit to see command change
EPHRATA -- A change of command for G Company, 181st Brigade Support Battalion will be held Saturday in Ephrata at 10 a.m. with outgoing commander, Cpt. Charles V. Barnett passing command to Cpt. Georgia F. Lamb.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Koeppen wins in Grant GOP court case
EPHRATA – Grant County Superior Court Judge Tyson Hill ruled in favor of Andrew Koeppen in Grant County Superior Court, indicating that Koeppen, not David Hunt, is the rightful chairperson of the Grant County Republican Party. “This situation is an unfortunate one,” Hill wrote in his decision. “The Grant County …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
40 Under 40: Ian Bivona
For the last two years, the Columbia Basin Herald and Basin Business Journal have benefited greatly from the addition of Ian Bivona to our team. Covering 11 high schools, often with each having four to six sports going on at the same time, Bivona is a powerhouse of a sports …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata schools opt to lock up phones
EPHRATA – Students at the Ephrata High and Ephrata Middle schools will be securing their phones in locked boxes during classes starting this fall. Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray said the move is to help students focus in class.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Port of Ephrata moves forward with jet fuel installation
EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata has awarded a roughly $1.2 million contract to H&H Construction Solutions out of Ellensburg to install a jet fuel tank, pump and related infrastructure at the Ephrata Municipal Airport, said the port’s Executive Director David Lanman.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. Community Court graduates first veteran
EPHRATA – Grant County Community Court celebrated its second graduate, a military veteran who – the first vet in the program – had run into issues with overuse of alcohol and was facing his sixth DUI conviction prior to entering the program.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
New Moses Lake nonprofit seeks to preserve student experience, motivation
MOSES LAKE — With financial struggles, the Moses Lake School District cannot afford extracurriculars of all sorts, from football to band to theater, for the 2024-25 school year. However, community members have formed the nonprofit Community Athletics and Activities to make sure children don’t miss out on important experiences. “Just …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
FIRE REPORT: Wilson Creek fire crisps 180 acres
WILSON CREEK — A wildfire was reported at about 4 p.m. Thursday north of the town of Wilson Creek and west of Road 3 NE which had burned an estimated 180 acres by about 7 p.m. according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
City administrator provides Ephrata water update
EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata is working to upgrade its water systems on multiple fronts with a new water tower, redrilling two wells, regained water rights and upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment facility, according to City Administrator Ray Towery. That includes recently-installed freshwater and gray water infrastructure to …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 3 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Most of WA remains in drought conditions
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology has announced that most of the state remains in a drought despite a wetter-than-average June. A drought was declared for most of the state in April.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO
Bridging the digital divide
MOSES LAKE – In today’s digital world where farmers use GPS systems to operate combines, artificial intelligence runs machines to sort apples by grade and banking and health care are both accessed online, digital access matters, said Sue Kane, CEO of NCW Tech Alliance. Bridging the gap between tech and …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO
Local styling
MOSES LAKE — DeeDee Clune is looking to make sure locals have their homes set up in a way that works for them and wants homebuyers to see what living in the homes they shop for might look like. That’s the point of being an interior designer, and why she …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO
Columbia Basin Hospital Foundation supports hospital mission
EPHRATA – As a public hospital district operates, it needs community support to keep its mission of serving the community’s health needs. That may be purchasing chairs, organizing volunteers or working to fund upgrades to medical equipment said Susan Scheib, the hospital’s director of communication and development.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS AGO
Auto theft suspect pleads guilty, sentenced to jail time
EPHRATA – Patrick Hoffman, 32, of Moses Lake was sentenced Tuesday after entering guilty pleas for two felonies and one gross misdemeanor before Grant County Superior Court Judge Tyson Hill.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
‘A pre-party before the party’
MOSES LAKE – Losing your grip on memories is not only frustrating for Alzheimer’s Disease patients and their families, but it’s something that impacts the community in multiple ways. On July 18, the Columbia Basin community will have a chance to come together to support the fight against the condition …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Beyond Wonderland drug suspect arraigned
EPHRATA – Chriss U. Wright, 31, of Puyallup was arraigned Tuesday in Grant County Superior Court on four charges associated with his arrest at the Beyond Wonderland EDM festival at the Gorge Amphitheatre on June 20.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Suspect in hospital indecent liberties case arraigned
EPHRATA — A former Samaritan Hospital employee, Mitchell Dee Jones, was arraigned in Grant County Superior Court Tuesday morning facing two charges of indecent liberties with someone who was unable to consent. Jones entered not-guilty pleas for both charges.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Newhouse focused on momentum in reelection bid
MOSES LAKE – Rep. Dan Newhouse, R–Wash., said he’s running for reelection because he feels like he still has work to do and because his time in office has connected him with the resources he needs in Washington D.C. to take action.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Vendor fair fun
EPHRATA – Grant’s Lumber held its first-ever vendor fair Saturday at 1085 A Street SE in Ephrata. Organizers said 28 vendors showed up to show off wares including jewelry, welded sculptures and a variety of services. The family-friendly event also included goats and ponies for children – of all ages …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Smiley addresses priorities in congressional race
MOSES LAKE – Tiffany Smiley decided to run for Congress again, this time for the U.S. House of Representatives 4th Congressional District, after she said residents of the district expressed concerns about incumbent Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., and encouraged her to run.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
FIRE REPORT: Multiple large fires burning in WA, local incidents quickly controlled
CHELAN – The largest wildfire burning in Washington as of Saturday afternoon was the Pioneer fire which had burned about 4,700 acres on the eastern shore of Lake Chelan, near the Cascade Creek Hike-in Campground.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
NCW Tech Alliance ribbon cutting
MOSES LAKE – Sue Kane, CEO of the NCW Tech Alliance, a nonprofit that works to help its members and the communities it serves leverage technology for better quality of life, among other things, cuts the ribbon at the organization’s new location on the Big Bend Community College campus located …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
GCSO, horse owner disagree on horse’s level of care after seizure, euthanization
MOSES LAKE– The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is seeking animal cruelty charges against the owner of a neglected horse that was euthanized this past week. However, the horse’s owner says the horse, Buddy, likely suffered from cancer which had caused a rapid decline in his health.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
McConihe area fire caused by welding accident
MOSES LAKE – First responders are asking the public to avoid the area near McConihe Road Northeast in on the north end of Moses Lake due to a roughly 100-acre fire in the area. Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman is on the scene and said the …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Batcopter creator’s home destroyed
SOAP LAKE – Looking at what is now left of his home after a structure fire Tuesday evening, Gary White of Soap Lake, known for his community involvement with his passion for all things Batman, including his replica Batcopter, admitted that he was still in shock from the events that …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Hospital foundation-farm cooperation helps children learn, play
EPHRATA – Children played under a tree near a swing at Cloudview Farm in Ephrata Wednesday morning after picking radishes that morning and learning about pond ecosystems earlier in the week. They’re participating in Lil’ Sprouts, a camp hosted by the farm and funded this year by grant money through …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata High FBLA to compete nationally
EPHRATA – Several Tigers are headed to Florida. Not the four-legged kind, but the kind that have a fascination with professionalism and wander the halls of Ephrata High School. Ephrata High Future Business Leaders of America club advisor and EHS media teacher Ryan Shannon said he’s very proud of this …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Sentenced defendant thankful for arrest
EPHRATA – Melissa Shelby Mattingly, 48, of Moses Lake was sentenced after entering guilty pleas on six felony charges – and thanked the court for compassion and said that her arrest was a blessing. “I think my arrest probably saved my life, and although I am facing an exorbitant amount …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Family fun set for Neppel Landing this weekend
MOSES LAKE – To further support their members with shops adjacent to Neppel Park and to just simply have the community out for a good time, the Moses Lake Downtown Association is having a family picnic day at the park this Saturday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Fuhr retires as city manager after resigning from MLSD Board
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake City Manager Kevin Fuhr has decided to retire as of June 30, citing health reasons, according to a press release from the city of Moses Lake. He also recently resigned from his post on the Moses Lake School District Board of Directors for the same …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
FIRE REPORT: MLFD sees busy weekend, Soap Lake-area fire shuts down Hwy. 28
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Fire Department staff said the weekend was busy on both the fire and medical side over the past few days. Grant County Fire District 7 also responded to a fire that forced Highway 28 to close for a time Sunday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Sessler discusses priorities if elected to Congress
PROSSER – Jerrod Sessler, a Republican from Prosser, is running for the U.S. Congress against incumbent Dan Newhouse, R–Wash., and Tiffany Smiley, among others. Sessler said he feels he is a unique candidate.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Fuhr resigns from MLSD board, cites health
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District announced that Moses Lake School Board Member Kevin Fuhr has resigned from the board, citing health concerns, as of Friday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
One arrested in sexual assault incident at Samaritan
MOSES LAKE – Mitchell Jones, 37, of Cashmere, Washington was arrested Thursday after witnesses said he had assaulted an unconscious 29-year-old female patient at Samaritan Hospital, according to a Moses Lake Police Department press release.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
2 Central Washington day trips for photography, nature lovers
EPHRATA – Since moving back to the Pacific Northwest, my wife and I have rekindled our love of photography and have regularly made it a point to go on various adventures in and around the Columbia Basin to play with our cameras and explore.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Bluebird Boutique now open in Ephrata
EPHRATA – When you walk into The Bluebird Boutique in downtown Ephrata, the variety of products offered is immediately apparent. Shop owner BreAnna Bridges said that’s because it’s a reflection of her own tastes and several vendors she works with and everyone brings something unique into the mix.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
MLSD seeks help to provide extracurriculars in ‘24-25 school year
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District hosted a meeting Monday night to get community members’ input on how the district might fund sports and other extracurricular activities given the school district’s financial situation.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Gonzaga partners with Ziplines Education to enhance workforce
SPOKANE — Gonzaga University announced a partnership with Ziplines Education in late March designed to help Zags and other Eastern Washington students fortify their skills in the workforce through certification programs.
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Law enforcement prioritizing safety after pursuit restrictions lift
EPHRATA – As of June 6, Initiative 2113 took effect and walked back restrictions on when law enforcement can pursue suspects that were set by legislation passed in Olympia in 2021. The initiative allows broader officer discretion and local and state authorities say they’ve updated policies to reflect the new …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Phone scammers still prevalent, but can be stopped
EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete said his staff received at least six calls on June 5 alone from area residents saying someone had called posing as a deputy and demanding they deposit money into an account to avoid being arrested. Those calls, he said, are scams.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
‘Old Ephrata’ spirit
EPHRATA – The annual Sage-N-Sun festival for 2024 featured a lot of music, a lot of food and a lot of people enjoying an outing on the Grant County Courthouse lawn Thursday, Friday and Saturday. “I was just very excited that we had such good music,” Ephrata Chamber of Commerce …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Miller to take the reins at Ephrata High
EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District has selected Ashlie Miller to take over as principal of Ephrata High School after Aaron Cummings, her predecessor, was selected to take on the assistant superintendent role for the Ephrata School District. “I just want you to know, we're ecstatic to have (her) join …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Faith, accomplishment, contributing themes for MLCA graduation
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Christian Academy celebrated its four-person graduating Class of 2024 Saturday with pomp, circumstance and prayer as Dennis Fountain, Caleb Jones, Maria Lynch and Jonah Robertson walked across the stage to collect their diplomas.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Tigers walk with a little something extra
EPHRATA – The Class of 2024 Tigers walked onto the field to graduate with a bit more pizzazz than some other graduating classes. Backflips, leg sweeps, “proposals,” tons of confetti cannons and even some heavy metal devil horns marked the opening of the ceremony that celebrated Ephrata High School’s most …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
Eagles encouraged to reach for their dreams
SOAP LAKE – The gymnasium was decked out with school colors and balloons, and filled with excited graduates, their families, and community members as the Soap Lake High School Class of 2024 received their diplomas. Valedictorian Anthony Beregovoy stood tall as he encouraged his classmates to reach for their dreams.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS AGO
2024 Cougars seek to make a positive impact
WARDEN – On a verdant lawn with families, friends, teachers and hundreds of other community members out to celebrate with them, the Warden Cougars graduating class walked the stage on Friday. Warden High School Principal Katie Phipps started the ceremony on a high note. “You are prepared, you can conquer …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Lions show pride, faith in MLCA grad ceremony
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Christian Academy Class of 2024 may not have been large – four now-former students walked the stage – but it made a loud roar.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Cougs walk in Warden
WARDEN – The sun was bright and the field was green as the Warden Cougars celebrated this year’s graduates. Dozens of students walked onto the stage at the field beneath Warden High School.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Sheriff urges safe driving as summer fun begins
EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete has something he wants to say to the people of the Columbia Basin – slow down. “I’ve been working collisions for a long time in Grant County and the top factors that we have in our collisions that we investigate are speed, inattention …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Eagles soar into the future as grads are celebrated in Soap Lake
SOAP LAKE – The gymnasium at Soap Lake Middle and High School was full of students, community members, family and friends of grads, and the graduates themselves on a sunny June 1 afternoon.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
COLUMN: The ups and weirds of home ownership
EPHRATA – In February of 2022 my wife and I embarked on a new adventure – home ownership. Prior to marrying my wife, I’d never really been interested in home ownership. I liked having all the maintenance be the landlord’s responsibility to manage and I usually lived in apartment complexes …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Soap Lake Community and Senior Center looks to be community hub
SOAP LAKE – Perry McClellan wants the Soap Lake Community Center to be a place where people gather to enjoy events and time with one another. McClellan, who serves as the center’s director, said he’s aware that there aren’t enough seniors participating in events at the center to really utilize …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Let’s stand together
The Moses Lake School District is facing some challenges. They’re not the only district in our area to have some difficulties. The Wahluke, Soap Lake, Quincy and other districts in the area are facing challenges too.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Senior Picnic celebrating 10 years of fun
MOSES LAKE – The venue is booked. The menu is prepared. The band is scheduled. It must be time for another Senior Picnic at the Grant County Fairgrounds. This year sees the annual event celebrating a decade of fun for the Columbia Basin Senior Forum’s signature event, said Karisti Cox, …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata celebrates Class of '24
EPHRATA – Tigers roamed marched in line down the central aisle to show off and collect high school diplomas Friday evening at 7 p.m.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Fire prompts evacuation on north end of Moses Lake
MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has put out an advisory of a Level 3 evacuation associated with a wildfire in the intersection of Road 6.6 NE and Road E.5 NE in the area near the shore of Moses Lake.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Gonzaga partners with Ziplines Education to advance E. WA workforce
SPOKANE — Gonzaga University announced a partnership with Ziplines Education in late March designed to help Zags and other Eastern Washington students fortify their skills in the workforce through certification programs. “Our goal has been to expand our professional offerings in the community so that people have more ways to …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata Class of ‘54 gathers for reunion, scholarship ceremony
EPHRATA – This year’s class of graduates includes 277 students at Ephrata High School. In 1954, that number was only 66 or so, said Gary Osborn, a representative for the class.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
The Basin honors its heroes for Memorial Day
SOAP LAKE, EPHRATA, QUINCY – Community members gathered at Valley View Memorial Park, the Ephrata Cemetery and Quincy Valley Cemetery on Monday to honor those who have served the U.S. and preserved its way of life. “Veterans made a promise to defend our country with their life if necessary. It …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Tigers to walk the stage Friday
EPHRATA – Ephrata High School’s Class of 2024 will celebrate graduation at Kiwanis Field at 7 p.m. this Friday, per Ephrata School District staff.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Honor and hope
I had the privilege of attending three Memorial Day events Monday wherein area residents visited the cemeteries in Soap Lake, Ephrata and Quincy to honor those who served our country and are no longer with us. Some of those soldiers died in combat or in the course of military service …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Beverly wildfire prompts evac notice
BEVERLY – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has reported a wildfire of more than 10 acres. An evacuation order has been issued in Beverly from A Street to Morrison Street to the Columbia River. Those not in the immediate evacuation zone but nearby in the town of Beverly should be …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Second place finish
EPHRATA - Almira Coulee/Hartline junior Carter Pitts slings out a pitch during the Warriors' game against the De Sales Irish on Saturday. Full coverage of that game will be in tomorrow's edition of the Columbia Basin Herald.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
MLSD budget woes continue
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District has found another issue as it works to untangle accounting and budget errors that have put the district in a financial chokehold. Board members, administrators and staff from Education Services District 171 are prioritizing getting a clear picture of the district’s finances …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 5 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. first responders recover remains near Crescent Bar
CRESCENT BAR – Grant County first responders have recovered a body from a vehicle near Ancient Lakes Road, Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said Saturday shortly before 8 p.m.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS AGO
MLSD board approves layoffs after levy failure, accounting issues
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors voted in a special meeting Saturday to move forward with a resolution to authorize needed budget cuts after the district’s maintenance and operations levy failed on the ballot for the second time this year. More than 100 staff, including …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Your vote matters, and here's why
I recently met with a Moses Lake School District official who made a good point. If all of the employees with MLSD had voted in favor of the maintenance and operations levy, the levy would have passed with ease.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Opening WA Trust
Washington Trust Bank’s new location on Basin Street in Ephrata will have its official grand opening May 23 at 11 a.m. A ribbon cutting will be held by the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce and the public is welcome to stop by and see the new branch.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Compression brake use limited in Ephrata
EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council has approved an ordinance restricting the use of non-muffled compression brakes within city limits. The move comes after a resident expressed concerns about noise associated with compression brakes.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata Sports Complex building burns, likely arson
EPHRATA – The concessions building at the Ephrata Sports Complex located behind the Ephrata Fire Department on A Street SE is a total loss after a Tuesday evening fire that started in a port-a-potty located next to the building. Authorities say the cause is likely arson.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Swatting incident caused by false active shooter report in Ephrata
EPHRATA – A report of an active shooter at the Ephrata Walmart was false according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office and was the result of swatting – a practice of reporting a fake emergency to authorities to get a reaction, often to harass those at the location the false …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
UPDATED: MLPD officer, suspect injured in Motel 6 shooting
MOSES LAKE – Zachary Allen Stockton, 37 of Moses Lake was arrested after an officer involved shooting at the Motel 6 at 2822 W. Driggs Drive in Moses Lake Saturday at about 8:20 p.m.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Local Boeing firefighters locked out pending contract negotiations
MOSES LAKE – Boeing firefighters began picketing at the Moses Lake Boeing facility on Tyndall Road NE on Saturday. Their contract with the aircraft manufacturer expired at 12:01 a.m. that morning.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Sheriff: Domestic violence an increasing problem in Grant Co.
EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete said last week that domestic violence continues to be an issue in Grant County with the number of calls year-over-year increasing for aid in domestic violence situations. He said the growth may be proportionate as the county’s population grows, but the growing numbers …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Vetting national and regional news
MOSES LAKE — Today’s media landscape often looks like a big bowl of spaghetti tossed against a wall already splattered with curry, leftover taco meat and gummy worms. It ain’t pretty, and it’s not always easy to decide, especially for national and global news, where to get information.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
UPDATED: Spokane SWAT, MLPD, partners conduct joint raid in Moses Lake
MOSES LAKE – Spokane SWAT officers, Moses Lake Police Department officers and other law enforcement agencies conducted a raid on the old EconoLodge location at 316 S. Pioneer Way in Moses Lake at about 3 p.m. Friday afternoon.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
New Ephrata Schools leaders share working vision
EPHRATA – As the 2023-24 school year winds down to a close, newly-selected Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray and his soon-to-be Assistant Superintendent Aaron Cummings said they’ll be focused on being purpose-driven and detailed in their approach to running the district together.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Fire prep event set for May 8 in Desert Aire
DESERT AIRE – Grant County Fire District 8 and its community partners will host a kickoff meeting for Desert Aire’s Wildfire Ready Neighbors program.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. Community Court celebrates first graduate
EPHRATA – Grant County’s Community Court celebrated its first graduate after a year of serving the county with a program designed to divert defendants away from a cycle of jail time, substance use, arrests and more jail time Wednesday afternoon. State Rep. Alex Ybarra, R–Quincy, attended the event and said …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
West Mathison: Stemilt CEO honored as 2024 Apple Citizen of the Year
WENATCHEE — The Washington State Apple Blossom Festival is a giant celebration of all things apples – but it has more serious aspects as well, like recognizing those who contribute to the community. People like West Mathison, CEO of Stemilt Orchards as the 2024 Apple Blossom Citizen of the Year. …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Grant GOP resolves leadership crisis
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Republican Party has had an identity crisis for the past several months after some Precinct Committee Officers opted to remove David Hunt as Grant County Party Chair during an Oct. 5, 2023 meeting, citing legal issues Hunt is facing and electing Andrew Koeppen as …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
GCSO K-9 officers discuss dog selection, entering law enforcement
EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff’s Office K9 officers Malli and Uno are settling in with their new handlers after being acquired by the department in early March. The two Belgian Malinois, Malie and Uno, are working through training with handlers Deputy Zane Bundy and Luis Jimenez, respectively. Both officers have …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Grant Co. Community Court reaches first year
EPHRATA – Grant County has its share of repeat offenders who can be considered proverbial frequent fliers through the court system, but a program that began about a year ago works to help them land on firmer runways as they move through the system.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 6 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
GCFD 13 promotes three to command positions
EPHRATA – Grant County Fire District 13’s command staff looks a bit different than it did a week ago after a badge-pinning ceremony that promoted two firefighters to captains and one to battalion chief last week.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata schools security officers foster connections
EPHRATA – Mike Crowder and Greg Hutchison are familiar faces at Ephrata High School. The two security officers, both of whom have law enforcement experience, have their office inside the Ephrata High Commons. Crowder said the location of their office is by design.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO
Area leaders assemble to address opioid epidemic
DESERT AIRE – Leaders from around the Columbia Basin gathered at the Wanapum Heritage Center Thursday to discuss the ongoing battle against Fentanyl – a synthetic opioid that caused nearly two dozen deaths in Grant County last year – and other opioids in the Columbia Basin. “(In Grant County in …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS AGO
Columbia Basin Foundation works to help establish legacies
EPHRATA – The Columbia Basin Foundation has been working for years now to help ensure community members throughout the Basin can leave a lasting legacy in their hometowns, counties and communities they’re a part of, said Corrine Isaak, CBF executive director. That was the goal set by founders Rick Honsowetz …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Gonzaga partners with Ziplines Education to advance E. WA workforce
SPOKANE — Gonzaga University announced a partnership with Ziplines Education in late March designed to help Zags and other Eastern Washington students fortify their skills in the workforce through certification programs. “Our goal has been to expand our professional offerings in the community so that people have more ways to …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: It takes a village…
EPHRATA – We’ve all heard the old saying telling us that it “takes a village to raise a child” or some similar paraphrase. After my experience last Thursday with the We Are Ephrata Town Hall, I’d have to say that it’s also important to note that it takes a village …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
‘78 years of prayers’
EPHRATA – After more than 70 years, Ephrata’s Memorial Christian Church will soon shut down after decades of service to the community, Pastor Don Dunn and church elders said in an interview with the Columbia Basin Herald last week. “It’s an aging thing…,” Dunn said. “One of the people in …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Competitive spirit
EPHRATA – Ephrata’s Addison Mills has signed with Corban University, a Salem, Oregon-based Christian institution, on a full-ride volleyball scholarship. Mills, a pin hitter on the court, said she had to consider her options after getting offers to play multiple sports – in part due to her height and competitive …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Firearm theft reporting now mandatory in WA
OLYMPIA — Gun safety legislation requiring the reporting of lost or stolen firearms has been signed into law as of Tuesday. The new law passed through the Washington Legislature as House Bill 1903 and was sponsored by Rep. Liz Berry, D-Queen Anne, and requires that a report be made within …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
DNR announces controlled burns
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Natural Resources announced eight prescribed burns throughout the state Monday. The eight separate burns will occur over the spring and cover up to 2,580 acres of state trust land.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Changes incoming at Ephrata library
EPHRATA – The North Central Washington Libraries branch in Ephrata is, like the majority of NCWL branches, slated for some remodeling and upgrades in the near future, said Aaron Loeffelbein, supervising librarian at the Ephrata location.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Future leaders
EPHRATA — Future Business Leaders of America is the largest career and technical organization in the U.S., said J. Ryan Shannon, a communications teacher and advisor for the FBLA chapter at Ephrata High School. “It’s the largest career and technical student organization in the country, facilitating students learning and opportunities …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Tigers have mixed results on the court in first two meets
EPHRATA – The Ephrata boys tennis team had a mixed result in the players' first couple of pre-league meets, first in Quincy on Saturday then in Chelan on Tuesday, said Tigers head tennis coach Courtney Burck.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS AGO
EPHRATA TIGERS: Solid reload
EPHRATA – Ephrata Golf Coach Greg Hewitt said he expects both the 12 girls and 14 boys on the Tigers golf team to perform well this year as he works to move the team into competition this spring, despite it being a “reload year” for the team. “This is a …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: We are Ephrata Town Hall set for March 28
EPHRATA – The Columbia Basin Herald will be hosting a town hall at the Ephrata High School Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m. on March 28 with representatives from the City of Ephrata, Ephrata School District, Columbia Basin Hospital, Ephrata Chamber of Commerce, Port of Ephrata and Grant County Sheriff’s …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
New Tiger boys tennis coach focused on skill building, agility, competitive play
EPHRATA – Courtney Burck has stepped into the role of the new varsity boys tennis coach at Ephrata High School with excitement and has an appreciation for the help she’s gotten as she takes on the new role going into the 2024 spring tennis season.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata girls tennis looks to anchor players as new faces fill team
EPHRATA – Britney MacLeod, head coach for girls tennis at Ephrata High School, said she’s excited for the new season to start, especially since it means she’s working with her cousin, Courtney Burck, who took the mantle of head boys varsity tennis coach this season.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata baseball enters 2024 under new HC Tempel
EPHRATA – New coach. New season. New opportunities. The Ephrata Tigers have a new head baseball coach in the form of David Tempel, a social studies teacher at Ephrata High School who has known the players he’s working with this spring for some time.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata school administrators discuss bullying
EPHRATA – If you ask them, Ephrata School District Superintendent Tim Payne and Assistant Superintendent Ken Murray will tell you that schools in Ephrata aren’t immune to bullying. However, they’ll also tell you they do their best to manage it.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Covering sensitive situations
MOSES LAKE – In yesterday’s edition of the Columbia Basin Herald we covered two delicate topics that require a great deal of empathy, compassion and thought to handle correctly. Those are the topics of bullying and the death of a student, Jett Johnson, who attended Ephrata High School.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
An infectious smile
EPHRATA – The halls of Ephrata High and Middle schools have seemed a bit dimmer for the last week and a half. Jett Johnson, a sophomore at the high school and son of Heidi Johnson, a math teacher at EMS, died in a car accident the night of Monday, Feb. …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
GCSO looks back and plans forward
EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office saw successes and challenges during Sheriff Joe Kriete’s first year in office in 2023. Kriete said he’s overall very proud of his department and has a deep appreciation for the support county residents generally show him and his officers.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS AGO
Sewer line issues on Division in Ephrata
EPHRATA – City of Ephrata staff believe a sewer line has collapsed on Division Avenue E. between J and K streets near the pickleball courts, according to City Administrator Ray Towry.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata School District examining new math curricula
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District is considering two possibilities when it comes to math curriculum for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The new education materials will replace EngageNY branded materials. Educators
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Letter from the editor: Pets are a community responsibility
As a community, we’re still struggling in the Columbia Basin to take care of the animals in our communities. While some progress has been made as funding becomes available to establish a new shelter for Grant County Animal Outreach, funding to ensure the operations of Adams County Pet Rescue are …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Modern furnishing decisions
EPHRATA — Matt Moore of Moore Furniture in Ephrata said the styles and models of furniture and appliances have remained similar or the same since the pandemic started as furniture and appliance manufacturers have struggled with supply chain issues and such. Good options are out there, but even with the …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata’s ‘new’ mayor pro tem looks at growing as residents choose
EPHRATA – After serving on the Ephrata City Council since 2015, Matt Moore has taken on a new title: mayor pro tem.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Samaritan payroll faces ‘technical issue’
MOSES LAKE – Samaritan Healthcare staff reported not being paid as they’d expected Friday morning, and the hospital’s administration indicated that a technical issue with one of the companies involved in processing the health care provider’s payroll had been the culprit that caused the issue.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Eight locals arrested: Joint investigations with city, federal, state agencies land Moses Lake residents in jail
MOSES LAKE – According to the office of U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref, based in Spokane, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, Moses Lake Police Department, Border Patrol and the Washington Department of Corrections have arrested eight people in the Moses Lake area. Those arrested …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata appoints officers, talks water rights and billing
EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council appointed new officers including a new mayor pro tempore during the board’s regular Jan. 17 meeting. They also received an update on the city’s new water utility billing processes and approved stopping service cancellations while residents and city staff adjust to the new system.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata School Board accepts grant, reviews finances
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board had a busy evening during their regular meeting Monday night with multiple financial topics, security and the acceptance of the resignation of Superintendent Tim Payne.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Rooted in community
EPHRATA – Steve and Heather Brown bought the Ephrata Grocery Outlet location in late 2022, and now, just over a year later, they appear to be happy with the decision to buy in a smaller community.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Grant PUD satisfaction survey shows positive results overall
EPHRATA – Grant County Public Utility District commissioners heard an overall satisfactory report on customer satisfaction from Alex Dunn, vice president of research with Strategies 360 which conducts the PUD’s annual customer satisfaction survey.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Cold work
EPHRATA - Trucks were stationed at the old track in Ephrata near Walmart on Tuesday as crews were set to begin demolition to prepare the site to become the new Grant County Jail. County officials have stated that a lot of tires had to be removed from the site prior …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO
New City Hall needed, but only being discussed informally thus far
EPHRATA — A new city hall for Ephrata has been talked about for at least 15 years, but isn’t on the immediate horizon, according to Ephrata City Manager Ray Towry. However, that doesn’t mean one will not be needed as city staffing continues to grow to meet the needs of …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO
Ketterer sworn in as MLIRD board member
EPHRATA – The Grant County Commission was joined by guests during their Tuesday meeting as Joe Ketterer was sworn in as a member of the Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District by Judge John Knodell.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS AGO
Officers, deceased identified in Quincy officer-involved shooting
QUINCY – The names of those involved in a Monday incident that lead to one Quincy Police Department officer being stabbed twice and the death of a man have been released by investigators with the Central Basin Investigative Team.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Payne to depart Ephrata School District
EPHRATA – Ephrata School District Superintendent Tim Payne has decided to resign from the district, citing personal, family and health issues, according to an ESD press release. His last day with the district will be June 30.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Cloudview Kitchen’s evolving local flavor, community focus
SOAP LAKE — Cloudview Kitchen was founded a little more than a decade ago by Jim Baird and Theresa Sergneri. Since then, the idea for the restaurant-slash-bakery-slash-coffee-house has evolved and matured. “Theresa and Jim started it …,” said co-owner Dusty Bolyard. “Jim wanted to start a nonprofit farm in Ephrata …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
QPD officer stabbed, civilian killed in food mart incident
QUINCY – One unidentified man is deceased after two Quincy Police Department officers responded to a call for assistance at the Jackpot Food Mart at 308 F Street Southeast in Quincy a little after 8:30 p.m. Monday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Ephrata Middle School portable burns, no injuries
EPHRATA – A portable at the Ephrata Middle School suffered a fire in its attic Friday morning, according to Ephrata School District Public Information Officer Sarah Morford.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Celebrating FRESH NEWS: MarDon’s Fisher offers support to anglers
OTHELLO – Each week I get an email from Pete Fisher at MarDon Resort with a column letting readers know what fish are biting on, the depth they’re biting at and sharing a success story of someone who tossed a line into the Potholes Reservoir and came back with a …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Endangered Species Act hits 50 as legislators questions success
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Enacted in 1973, the Endangered Species Act turned 50 in 2023 and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that the ESA had been effective in wildlife conservation and has saved about 99% of the species under its care, including several in Washington state. However, Congress is …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Fatality accident, GCSO collision shut down SR 17
MOSES LAKE – State Route 17 was closed for nearly four hours Thursday night after two accidents led to the death of one woman and non-fatal injuries for two Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Bill aims to protect WA residents from secondhand exposure to narcotics
OLYMPIA – The fentanyl crisis is on the proverbial docket for the 2024 Washington Legislative Session.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Gorge shooting court dates set
EPHRATA – James M. Kelly, 26, the suspect in the June 18 shooting at the Beyond Wonderland music festival, has multiple court dates coming up.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Ephrata passes $40.6M city budget
EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council passed the city’s budget during its December 6 meeting. The budget includes a 3% cost of living increase for city staff and increases in insurance expenditures, while city revenues have also increased in some areas.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Dent talks 2024 legislative session
MOSES LAKE – State Representative Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, said his focuses for the 2024 state legislative session are children and fire protection. Some may be easier to establish, but he said he’s committed to working on them.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
‘A good spot for us’
OTHELLO — Titus Bowser of TR Reapers says Adams County has become a home for him, his family and the business they run. “It’s nice,” he said. “When we were looking to move from Ellensburg, (Adams County) was pretty central to a lot of our work. … It seemed like …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO
Gift giveaway scheduled for Christmas
EPHRATA – Our Redeemer Presbyterian Church at 172 Ivy Street SE in Ephrata will host His Helping Hands for a Christmas Day lunch and gift giveaway on Christmas from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata schools defeasing bonds due to inflation
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District is moving forward with the process to defease a nearly $28 million bond approved by voters in 2019, said Superintendent Tim Payne in a Monday morning interview. “Where we’re at in the process is the board had a hearing,” Payne said. “You have sort …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Nest Property Solutions officially open in Moses Lake
MOSES LAKE — Blake Rollins and Kaylee Rollins cut the ribbon on their co-owned business, Nest Property Solutions at 1000 S. Pioneer Way in Moses Lake on Wednesday. Blake serves as the business’s broker while Kaylee takes care of things on the administrative side. The company provides a variety of …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Supporting local: Grant County Tourism Commission works to bring visitors while supporting area businesses
EPHRATA – Grant County has a lot to offer travelers, whether they’re passing through or coming for a show at The Gorge Amphitheatre or maybe spending a weekend at a bed and breakfast by the Columbia River – but it takes work to get the word out about the attractions …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Basin Street Barbershop owner looks to become part of the community
EPHRATA — Cheryl Scott heard a lot of people saying they wanted an affordable, convenient haircut — and that’s what she set out to provide when she opened Basin Street Barber Shop this past July 15. “A lot of places in town take appointments,” she said. “And the feedback that …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 1 WEEK AGO
Calm before the fun
EPHRATA – Growing season may be done at Cloudview Farm but the ag attraction’s Education and Community Coordinator Julie Johnston and Operations Manager Anna Moore are hard at work prepping for another year of events at the Ephrata business.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Support group available for dementia patient caregivers
MOSES LAKE – Taking care of a family member with dementia issues, whether from Alzheimer’s Disease or some other medical issue, can be extraordinarily trying. For those in the area though, there is a support group available with people who know the trials of the situation, said Karisti Cox, community …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 2 WEEKS AGO
Cantwell cosponsors bipartisan bill to aid Indigenous communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) and Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota) have introduced bipartisan legislation to improve tribal access to economic development programs available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, according to a joint press release from the legislators.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Tree of news
MOSES LAKE - The Columbia Basin Herald team is excited about the holidays and the Christmas tree is already up in the front office. We hope our readers are all surrounded by loved ones and filled with joy this holiday season.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS AGO
Celebrating opportunities
MOSES LAKE — Dozens of people gathered in the Moses Lake City Council chamber Tuesday. Not for a boring meeting, but for a celebration of decades of public service on the part of former Moses Lake Police Chief – now City Manager – Kevin Fuhr, after his formal retirement from …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Port of Ephrata sells PBY aircraft from 'Always'
EPHRATA – The PBY-5A Catalina that has sat for some time at the Port of Ephrata will be finding a new home after it was auctioned off by port officials at the request of the state, according to Port Director David Lanman. The aircraft is best-known for an appearance in …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 MONTHS, 4 WEEKS AGO
Basin Street Barbershop owner looks to become part of the community
EPHRATA – Cheryl Scott heard a lot of people saying they wanted an affordable, convenient haircut – and that’s what she set out to provide when she opened Basin Street Barber Shop this past July 15.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Ephrata Council recognizes Wreaths Across America Day
EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council voted unanimously in favor of a resolution recognizing December 16 as Wreaths Across America Day in the city.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
GCSO, MLPD set for Tip-A-Cop in early Dec.
EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office and Moses Lake Police Department are partnering again this year with other local first responders for their Tip-A-Cop and Shop With a Cop events in December, Sheriff Joe Kriete said.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Supporting grass roots: CWU's Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship works to help build local economies
ELLENSBURG – The Central Washington University College of Business launched the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – also known as I4IE – in 2021 using grant funding from the Herbert B. Jones Foundation and a mindset to help communities develop their economies. “Most communities in Washington state can use a …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Letter from the editor: Thoughts on Veterans Day
On May 5, 1996, I got on an airplane for the first time and went to Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Ephrata approves parade, works on budget planning
EPHRATA — The Ephrata City Council approved a Veterans Day Parade and discussed budgeting during their Nov. 1 meeting, City Administrator Ray Towry said. They also examined property tax rates. “Council has just asked for the typical 1% (overall revenue) increase last night,” Towry said on Nov. 2. “Which is …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Academic resources: CWU’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship looks to help Washington communities plan their economies
ELLENSBURG — The Central Washington University College of Business launched the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – also known as I4IE – in 2021 using grant funding from the Herbert B. Jones Foundation and a mindset to help communities develop their economies. “Most communities in Washington state can use a …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Prometheans help Ephrata teachers reach students
EPHRATA – Last year, the Ephrata School District received a grant of about $110,000 to ensure all of their classrooms were equipped with Promethean digital boards – the digital descendent of a chalkboard – and the training for staff to utilize them in the classroom.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Ephrata celebrates Halloween with displays, activities and – of course – candy
EPHRATA — Thousands showed up in downtown Ephrata Tuesday to celebrate Halloween. Ghouls, superheroes, Power Rangers and more showed up in a display we’re sure would have made both Vincent Price and Stan Lee proud.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Water, housing big topics for Moses Lake City Council candidates
MOSES LAKE — Four candidates for the Moses Lake City Council had an opportunity to make their positions clear at a candidate forum Oct. 24.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Moses Lake gets new city manager, police chief
MOSES LAKE – Now-former Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr was appointed during this week’s city council meeting as permanent city manager. Subsequently, Captain David Sands has been tapped to take over as Moses Lake Police Department chief.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
South Grant County forum set for Wednesday
MATTAWA – The South Grant County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a candidate and local agency forum Wednesday evening at Wahluke High School from 5-7 p.m.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
GCSO on scene at Saturday evening Mae Valley collision
MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office and cooperating agencies have responded to a collision near the intersection of Road 4 NE and Road E NE near Mae Valley, according to GCSO Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman. The collision involved a passenger car and a semi. One occupant of …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Early learning town hall set for Tuesday
The North Central Early Learning Coalition in cooperation with Catholic Charities, the North Central Education Service District and the apple STEM Network will host a town hall to discuss early childhood education Tuesday at CB Tech in Moses Lake.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
GCAO adoption events coming
MOSES LAKE – Grant County Animal Outreach will be putting on pet adoption events at multiple Moses Lake locations in the next few weeks.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Port of Ephrata sees opportunities to help community thrive
EPHRATA – David Lanman, the new executive director at the Port of Ephrata said he’s hoping to take the port to new heights – literally in some respects. The port’s airstrip has traditionally served local groups, but he said he’s set a goal of making it a money-maker that helps …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Tigers homecoming nobility 2023
EPHRATA – The Ephrata Tigers celebrated Homecoming during halftime at last week’s gridiron match against the Grandview Greyhouds. See full coverage of the game in today’s sports section.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
EDITORIAL: Paws for thought
Late in September, Adams County Pet Rescue announced that, without an influx of funding, it would need to shutter its doors and stop serving the people and pets of Adams County...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Soap Lake mayor under investigation for inappropriate conduct
SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Mayor Michelle Agliano has taken a leave of absence from city administration after city staff made claims against her indicating that she had acted inappropriately and possibly illegally. “These things are all being investigated, I am on leave until after the election at which time …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Pit stop
MOSES LAKE – Thousands of geese stopped for a rest in a field along Potato Hill Road NE on Monday as they worked on migrating south for the upcoming winter. Thank you to reader Theresa Campbell for calling in to let us know about Moses Lake’s feathered visitors.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR AGO
Gesa staff volunteer locally during day of service
MOSES LAKE – Gesa Credit Union stepped out to help two local organizations on their annual day of service on Oct. 9. The regional banking organization closed its 28 branches and stepped out to help 31 community organizations statewide...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Drought impacts a dozen WA counties
UNION GAP – A dozen counties in Washington state on both sides of the Cascades are facing drought conditions this year, according to a drought declaration from the Department of Ecology, causing strains on agriculture and day-to-day living. “Statewide, May through August of this year for Washington state, the average …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Prize coverage
KENNEWICK – This past weekend I had the privilege of going to the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association’s annual conference. While I was there, I found myself beaming a bit with pride as the team I am fortunate to work with was recognized for their hard work via WNPA’s Better Newspaper …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Ephrata addresses annexation, approves Homecoming festivities
EPHRATA – City Administrator Ray Towry said the city is moving forward with a variety of measures after last week’s city council meeting, including a request from property owners to annex a small piece of land at the request of a property owner with land that overflows the city’s border...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
New Discovery in town
EPHRATA – A building on Basin Street will soon be home to a new business in Ephrata, the Discovery Cider Company. “So, initially, we opened a cidery on the west side, in Tacoma,” said Brennan James, who owns the cidery with his wife, Berlyn Sandstrom. “We opened it as Tin …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Drought impacts a dozen Washington counties
UNION GAP — A dozen counties in Washington state on both sides of the Cascades are facing drought conditions this year, according to a drought declaration from the Department of Ecology, causing strains on agriculture and day-to-day living. “Statewide, May through August of this year for Washington state, the average …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Ephrata cuts the ribbon for Columbia Ridge
EPHRATA – Community members and Ephrata School District officials stepped into Columbia Ridge Elementary’s newly renovated gym for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 28...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Grant officials host appreciation lunch for staff
EPHRATA – Elected officials from throughout Grant County were on hand to cook up and serve burgers, hot dogs and appreciation to county staff in front of the Grant County Courthouse Wednesday...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Q&A with Ephrata trustee candidates Mike Fleurkens and Jordan Hansen
EPHRATA – Two candidates are vying for a seat on the Ephrata School Board. Mike Fleurkens and Jordan Hansen made it past the primary over the summer...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 1 MONTH AGO
Five arrested in drive-by investigation
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Police Department Interim Chief, Cpt. David Sands issued a statement Friday indicating four arrests have been made in the investigation of an Aug. 13 shooting that led to the death of Jeremy Flores, 36, of Moses Lake.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Honoring service
EPHRATA — Dozens of residents, city officials and first responders showed up at the Grant County Courthouse in Ephrata on Monday to join the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 28, and Legionnaires in remembering those lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and in the various conflicts and emergencies since that day...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Art and walk to raise Alzheimer’s awareness set for Friday, Saturday
MOSES LAKE – Area residents will be flexing their artistic talents and putting on their walking shoes to decorate for Colors of Hope, Friday, and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday. “I did a little bit (of art) last year, and people really enjoyed that. They enjoyed having something …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Wash. unions join in support of climate-friendly jobs
MOSES LAKE – Six Washington-based unions are teaming up to take advantage of Washington’s legislative environment and the need for workers to fill environmentally-friendly jobs created by that environment...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Washington unions join in support of climate-friendly jobs
MOSES LAKE — Six Washington-based unions are teaming up to take advantage of Washington’s legislative environment and the need for workers to fill environmentally-friendly positions created by that environment. “We are all working to ensure that, as we make advancements in energy and environmental policy, we support the workers and …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
509-raised author up for regional award
SEATTLE — An Othello-raised writer and veteran now living in Seattle is a finalist in the annual Washington State Book Awards for his poetry collection, “We Had Our Reasons.” Ricardo Ruiz said he’s excited to have been recognized, especially early in his writing career. “It’s the first thing I have …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Student to teacher
EPHRATA — Tristyn Eldredge has come full circle in her journeys around Columbia Ridge Elementary School in Ephrata. She started there as a student, then came back as a paraprofessional and this year, she’s at the head of a fourth-grade classroom as a teacher. “One of the biggest things that …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Clean buildings
REDMOND – The Washington Legislature passed the Clean Building Performance Standard in 2019, and operators of commercial buildings now have set deadlines to ensure their properties 50,000 square feet and larger are in compliance with the law. While there are penalties for noncompliance, Albireo Energy’s VP and General Manager Ivan …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Grant Co. Hospital District 1 ballot to change after court decision
EPHRATA – Dr. Brandon Penix will be removed from the November 2023 ballot for Grant County Hospital District 1’s third district seat after a decision by Grant County Superior Court Judge Tyson Hill wherein Penix’s candidacy was examined. “The candidate must be eligible for the office at the time he …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Building energy: State deadlines for facility efficiency approaching
REDMOND — The Washington Legislature passed the Clean Building Performance Standard in 2019, and operators of commercial buildings now have set deadlines to ensure their properties 50,000 square feet and larger are in compliance with the law. While there are penalties for noncompliance, Albireo Energy’s VP and General Manager Ivan …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Woman struck by train in Ephrata
EPHRATA — A 58-year-old woman suffered multiple injuries when she was struck by a train while trying to cross the tracks at the Ephrata Amtrak station shortly before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Ephrata Police Chief Erik Koch said. “I heard that she had several fractures,” Koch said. “So, both legs, arm …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata boil advisory lifted
EPHRATA — The boil water advisory for the city of Ephrata was lifted shortly before 2 p.m. Wednesday, Ephrata City Administrator Ray Towry said. The advisory had been issued because of some concerns with water pressure and backflow into the city’s water infrastructure. “We felt very confident the results would …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
A plan to buy
EPHRATA – The housing inventory in the Columbia Basin is tight, but preparing ahead of time can make the process of buying one of the homes that is available a lot easier. “The starting point is to find a lender that they trust and get a pre-approval through the lender,” …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Fair showing
MOSES LAKE – Perhaps the only thing more colorful than the variety of horses in the Harwood Pavillion Tuesday morning were the outfits of the young equestrians who came to show off their skills. One standout was Bailey Brown, a young horse lover who dressed in more English than Western …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Cooling livestock
EPHRATA – The sign at the SubWay in Ephrata read 105 degrees Wednesday afternoon, and temperatures throughout the area have been high all week, including on the various ranches in the area. Ranchers have a variety of tools though to help keep their livestock from overheating. Ensuring animals have easy …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 2 MONTHS AGO
GALLERY: Barn views
MOSES LAKE – A large part of the fair in any rural area is friendly competition among area youth agricultural organizations such as 4-H, Future Farmers of America and The Grange...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
FIRE REPORT: Red flag warning issued, fires burn around the Evergreen State
MOSES LAKE – The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning Monday afternoon in light of extreme high temperatures, potential for high winds and low relative humidity throughout the Pacific Northwest, but especially on the western side of the Cascades. "Today's red flag warnings are in effect for extremely …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Local residents tell cancer to take a hike
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Police Department officers, members of the community and at least one loving wife joined Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr Saturday morning at 9 a.m. for a fundraising walk to support the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center’s efforts to battle the disease. “I’m not a …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Waterworks: Ephrata finalizing plans for water infrastructure upgrades
EPHRATA — Providing water and sewer services to a city laid out like a reverse saddle is challenging, but the city of Ephrata is working to improve the associated infrastructure, which is aging and needs adjustments to meet the needs of the county seat. “You know, 90% of this stuff …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
‘Cancer sucks’
MOSES LAKE — “Cancer sucks.” That’s what it says on the new cancer survivor’s ribbon tattoo on Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr’s abdomen, which he got recently after having surgery to have his gallbladder and surrounding cancerous tissues removed...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Washington Day Trip: Bygone Byways Interpretive Trail
LEAVENWORTH – Travel about 30 miles northwest of Leavenworth on U.S. 2, and you’ll find the Bygone Byways Interpretive Trailhead. Wrapped in a bow-shaped piece of land between the highway and Nason Creek, the trailhead offers public restrooms and a walking path of about a mile that overlooks the stream …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Covering the county seat
Last month, the Grant County Journal ran its last issue after more than a century of publishing and serving Ephrata and the surrounding area...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata council offers appreciation for Adkinson
EPHRATA — The Ephrata City Council awarded former Interim City Administrator Kurt Adkinson with a trophy honoring his service to the community during its July 19 meeting now that new City Administrator Ray Towry is fully engaged in the city’s top administrative position.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata approves changes to new fire truck order
EPHRATA — Ephrata’s new fire truck is seeing a bit of a delay and will cost about $74,000 more than initially anticipated due to multiple factors, Ephrata Fire Chief Jeremy Burns said. “It’s about $64,000 for engine, transmission and driveline and there’s another dozen components besides the engine and transmission,” …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
Super friends
SOAP LAKE — Sina Long said she just kept coming to work after her late boss passed away and ended up taking on the shop owner role at Hair Masters in downtown Soap Lake. “I’ve been working here since ’94,” Long said. “The gal that used to have The Hair …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 3 MONTHS AGO
The Cardman
EPHRATA — While there have been – quite literally – stumbles along the way, The Cardman hobby shop is now open in Ephrata and Derran Donoghue and partner Melissa Craven are excited to be in Tiger country. “The first thing I want to do is, I want to make this …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Fentanyl crisis in Grant County
EPHRATA – According to staff at the Grant County Jail, roughly 90% of detainees arrive with some substance abuse-related concern. Of those, roughly 70% have some level of dependency on fentanyl. The Grant County Morgue is seeing sadly similar increases. “We’re starting to see (fentanyl addiction) as a huge issue …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata's Grant Elementary upgrades to go to bid
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District will ask for bids for a complete remodel of Grant Elementary School, an ESD press release said. Plans to renovate the Ephrata High Performing Arts Center and PAC gymnasium have been placed on hold due to budgetary constraints though. “The world has changed in …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Alleged Gorge shooter pleads not guilty
EPHRATA – James Kelly, the suspect accused of killing two people and injuring two others at the Gorge Amphitheatre campground during last month’s Beyond Wonderland music festival, has entered a plea of not guilty, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
'Mental health care desert'
QUINCY – Robert Bates has experienced the mental health challenges of combat first hand and he wants to help his brothers and sisters in arms recover from the same through his work with Washington’s War Trauma Program. “The (Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs) War Trauma Program – I actually …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
30 years: Downtown Moses Lake Association celebrates pearl anniversary
MOSES LAKE – Music, shoppers, bean bag tossers and fun took over downtown Moses Lake near Sinkiuse Square on Saturday as the Downtown Moses Lake Association celebrated three decades of serving the community – an anniversary ordinarily symbolized with a pearl if it were a marriage. “It went well,” said …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Caleb Perez
MOSES LAKE — Caleb Perez, whose byline you may have seen floating around in the Columbia Basin Herald’s pages, likes to try a little bit of everything, whether that’s sports, journalism or making a podcast with friends. “I did not do anything in high school other than what was required …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Investigators release more details in Gorge shooting case
WENATCHEE – Moses Lake Police Department Detective Edgar Salazar is on administrative leave following the incident wherein he reportedly shot shooting suspect James M. Kelly, according to a press release from Captain Brian Chance of the Wenatchee Police Department...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
UPDATED: Gorge victims, alleged shooter identified
EPHRATA — Grant County Coroner Craig Morrison has released the identities of the two fatally-shot victims from the Sunday evening shooting at The Gorge Amphitheatre’s campground and Grant County Sheriff Joe Kriete has identified the alleged shooter. “The suspect is 26-year-old James M. Kelly of Joint Base Lewis-McChord. He was …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
Gorge tragedy
GEORGE – A Saturday evening shooting at The Gorge Amphitheatre campground near George has left two victims dead and three people, including the shooter, injured, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman. “At about 8:20 p.m. or thereabouts, there was a shooting in the campground. The …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 4 MONTHS AGO
UPDATED: Active shooter arrested at Gorge Amphitheater
GEORGE – An evening shooting at The Gorge Amphitheatre campground near George has left two victims dead and three people, including the shooter, injured, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman. “At about 8:20 p.m. or thereabouts, there was a shooting in the campground. The shooter …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
900 acres burn near Rocky Ford Creek
EPHRATA – A Wednesday afternoon fire near State Route 17 at Rocky Ford Creek was reportedly caused by a vehicle fire involving a farm tractor, said Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Fire season starts in Grant Co.
SOAP LAKE — Fire season has kicked off in Grant County with three fires in less than 24 hours – one just north and east of Soap Lake, one at the intersection of State Route 17 and Stratford Road in Moses Lake on Tuesday and another at Rocky Ford Creek …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Mavs and Chiefs
MOSES LAKE — With mortar boards bedecked in flowers, back-the-blue flags, comedic statements, family names and hopes for the future, this year’s Moses Lake High School graduates walked the stage and stepped toward their futures, proud families watching from the stands at Lions Field. MLHS Principal Sheila Kries opened the …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Green air: Desert winds an attractor for wind energy developers as state government moves toward diverse green energy development
ELLENSBURG — According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, wind power is the second-largest contributor to Washington’s renewable electricity generation, and the state’s largest wind farm is along the Snake River in southeastern Washington with more than 343 megawatts of capacity. “We are often looking at wind energy for the …
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
‘I like to stay young and party all night’
MOSES LAKE – Maximiliano Robert House has aspirations – and all of them involve having fun. “I like to stay young and I party all night,” Max said...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Letter from the Editor: Sad but fond farewell
The Columbia Basin will be losing a valued friend this month. After more than 116 years, the Grant County Journal will print its last issue at the end of June. The closure was announced in the Journal’s June 1 edition. The staff at the Columbia Basin Herald is saddened by …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Bill to protect gas stoves introduced in Congress
OLYMPIA — A bill introduced Monday would protect gas stoves from proposed federal limitations, according to an announcement from Rep. Dan Newhouse, R – Washington. In February, the U.S. Department of Energy proposed an “energy efficiency standard” for gas cooking products. This would be the first energy performance standard imposed …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
GALLERY: Spring Fest Headliners
MOSES LAKE – Tone Loc, Montell Jordan and Vanilla Ice headlined Spring Fest in Moses Lake this year. The photos below highlight portions of their shows which celebrated the music of the ‘90s and had the rappers performing some of their hits from that era.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS AGO
Soap Lake council accepts Walmart grant, tables cleanups
SOAP LAKE – During their regular meeting Wednesday, the Soap Lake City Council voted unanimously to accept a $1,250 grant from Walmart and tabled decisions on spring and fall cleanups for the city...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS AGO
Special session called to complete Blake decision work
OLYMPIA – Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced that he has called a special session to begin May 16 to address drug possession legality impacted by what is known as the Blake decision. “My office and I have been meeting with legislators from all four caucuses and I am very optimistic …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS AGO
Letter from the editor: Fond farewell
MOSES LAKE – Rebecca Pettingill, one of the Columbia Basin Herald’s reporters for the last few years is leaving the publication for an opportunity with Big Bend Community College...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS AGO
Artistic celebration
MOSES LAKE – Columbia Basin Allied Arts celebrated nearly five decades of bringing the arts to the Columbia Basin on Saturday. CBAA Director Shawn Cardwell said the event was a success overall and expressed her appreciation to attendees and other supporters. “It is always nice to spend time with the …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS AGO
Business shindig
EPHRATA – Ephrata Chamber of Commerce Director Rita Witte said she was excited at the response as the chamber hosted its first annual business expo during its April 12 business after-hours. “I think my excitement was that everybody else was excited,” Witte said. “Everybody else was happy with how it …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS AGO
Colorful view
VANTAGE – One of the horse sculptures at the Wild Horse Monument above Vantage, Monday morning. Several of the horses have graffiti left by taggers on them, but the view is otherwise breathtaking from the top of the ridge.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
Keeping the foundation
EPHRATA – Country Deli on Basin Street in Ephrata was recently bought by siblings Gabriela and Jeovani Dircio. The pair said they’re committed to staying the course and keeping the current menu the same while doing a bit of a refresh in other aspects of the business. “It’s a great …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
CJ's Custom Meats cuts ribbon
MOSES LAKE - CJ's Custom Meats staff and members of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce gathered Monday for a formal ribbon cutting at the business's shop in downtown Moses Lake. The business sells a variety of meats along with outdoor cooking equipment.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
Burglary arrest, wreck, mental health call keep GCSO busy over weekend
EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office arrested Eliseo Valdobinos, 22, of Quincy Friday in association with investigations into multiple daytime burglaries, according to a GCSO statement...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
Basic American Foods evaluating aftermath of fire
MOSES LAKE – Basic American Foods continues to assess the situation caused by a fire at their facility just south of Moses Lake on State Route 17. “BAF is currently assessing the damage to the portion of the facility and working with the local authorities to determine the root cause …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
UPDATED: GCFD 5 responds to Basic American Foods fire
MOSES LAKE – A fire broke out at the Basic American Foods facility just south of Moses Lake at Tuesday evening. Grant County Fire District 5 and Moses Lake Fire Department responded to the blaze around 9 p.m...
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
Auction set to support local accident victim
MOSES LAKE – Central Washington Livestock, Inc., Moses Lake, is set to auction off Panda the Mexican steer Wednesday at 1 p.m. to support Caleb Berquist and his family as he recovers from a side-by-side ATV accident. “I actually grew up with Shane Berquist, Caleb’s dad,” said Randy Hull, Jr. …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
AMR announces Grant departure
EPHRATA – American Medical Response, which handles much of the ambulance services in Grant County, announced last week that it will be ceasing operations in the county, citing increased costs, among other reasons. “We were notified that there was going to be a need for financial supplement of AMR’s operations, …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 7 MONTHS AGO
Columbia Basin Allied Arts
MOSES LAKE – Columbia Basin Allied Arts has been around for nearly five decades, said CBAA Executive Director Shawn Cardwell. The organization started at Big Bend Community College and works to ensure everyone in Grant, Adams and Lincoln counties has access to the arts. “There are so many events that …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 8 MONTHS AGO
Woman arrested and charged with raping 15-year-old boy
EPHRATA - Andrea Campos Hernandez, 22, Moses Lake has been arrested after an investigation into alleged sexual abuse of a 15-year-old Warden High School student, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. “The alleged misconduct started in 2021 when the boy was 13 and Hernandez was 21,” …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 8 MONTHS AGO
EDITORIAL: Straightforward about 'Dilbert'
You may notice that the comic strip “Dilbert” is missing from the paper. After recent events associated with the comic strip’s artist and writer, Scott Adams, and commentary on his YouTube channel, the Herald is choosing not to do business with him any longer. Last week, Adams took to his …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 8 MONTHS AGO
Basin athletes head west
Police and fire vehicles with lights and sirens escorted the Moses Lake High School wrestling and swim and dive teams on the beginning of their journey to state competition Thursday morning. Send-offs such as this happened around the Columbia Basin as teams from around the area got on busses destined …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 9 MONTHS AGO
Othello PD hosting recruiting seminars
OTHELLO – The Othello Police Department is having a hard time recruiting like other law enforcement agencies across Washington state, OPD Chief Phil Schenck said. However, the agency isn’t taking the issue lightly and is innovating to help new recruits pass muster. “The first (seminar) was on how to get …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 9 MONTHS AGO
Association honors locals at real estate banquet
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake-Othello Association of Realtors held their annual banquet on Saturday, July 21. The awards recognized community members and real estate professionals in five categories. Jeannie Austin-Cook, a member of the Moms helping moms of Grant County WA Facebook group – and incidentally the receptionist at …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 9 MONTHS AGO
Soap Lake considers annexation, development needs
SOAP LAKE – During Thursday’s regular Soap Lake City Council meeting, council members took up multiple topics related to development in and around the city, including the annexation of a dozen 50-foot by 100-foot lots and an updated plan for the Purple Sage development. City Planner and former Mayor Alex …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 9 MONTHS AGO
Racist flyers distributed in Moses Lake
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr verified Thursday afternoon reports that flyers promoting the Aryan Freedom Network and directing those who find the materials to a white supremacy website were recently distributed in Moses Lake. “Last week and earlier this week, a group was dropping little flyers …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 1 YEAR, 9 MONTHS AGO
2 locals added to ag hall of fame
MOSES LAKE - Members of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce gathered at Pillar Rock Grill Tuesday evening for the organization’s annual meeting which included the induction of Mike Laplant and Frank Martinez into the Grant County Farm Bureau’s Agriculture Hall of Fame. “The Moses Lake Area Agricultural Hall of …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS AGO
One in custody after early morning burglary
MOSES LAKE - One man is in custody and another is being sought after the pair broke into a Moses Lake woman’s home in the 1200 block of Adair Street, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office staff. The woman was not injured, nor were law enforcement officials who responded to …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Candidates discuss policies at candidate forum
MOSES LAKE — Candidates for several county-level races responded to questions at a candidate forum at the Moses Lake Civic Center Monday evening. Races represented included those for sheriff, clerk, commissioner, assessor and superior court judge – all on the ballot for the Nov. 8 election. “We sponsor the candidates …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
November options narrowed after primaries
COLUMBIA BASIN - While Grant and Adams county voters had plenty of options in the Aug. 2 primary, the point of the August ballot is to narrow down options in November to no more than two candidates for each race. The results posted below are unofficial and do not include …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Vantage Highway fire causes haze, threatens 40 structures
VANTAGE - A fire is burning on the western side of the Columbia River north of Vantage along the Vantage Highway, leading to the mobilization of state resources to combat the roughly 10,500-acre blaze which threatened about 40 structures Monday. “We have resources from all across the state because this …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Dollie Boyd: Helping history put on a good show
Dollie Boyd, city of Moses Lake museum director, is used to the pressure of educating and putting on a good show at the same time.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Cari Cortez: Managing the moving pieces of the housing shortage
Cari Cortez’s official title with the City of Moses Lake is housing and grants coordinator. It sounds simple, but there’s more involved than people may realize.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Multi-Agency Communications Center: Emergency dispatch requires ‘a special kind of person’
It takes a special kind of person to be a 911 dispatcher, says Dispatch Supervisor Jennifer Pitt, who has worked at the Multi-Agency Communications Center for about 17 years.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Levi Bisnett
MOSES LAKE - Levi Bisnett wants Moses Lake to be recreationist and pedestrian-friendly. As a project surveyor with the city, he gets a chance to make that vision happen. “It kind of plays into what I’ve been talking about for many years,” Bisnett said of his position. “Which is the …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
MLSD’s The Summit gets new home
MOSES LAKE — The Summit - Moses Lake School District’s program for learners with special needs - has a new home.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
UPDATED: Fatality accident near George closes roadway
GEORGE - The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement that roads have been closed at the intersection of Adams Road and S. Frontage Road near Quincy. The collision involves a retired school bus that was transporting farmworkers. No school children were aboard the bus at the time of …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Cherabella’s Salon
EPHRATA – Clients of Cherabellas Salon at 142 W. Division Street in downtown Ephrata will soon have a different and larger venue to visit to get gussied up, according to shop owner Hannah Oliver. “Right now we have 900 square feet and the new building is 1,700,” Oliver said. “So, …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Georgie's Gently Used
EPHRATA – Georgie Youngers, owner of Georgie’s Gently Used at 506 C St. SW in Ephrata, said she knows what it’s like to need affordable options to take care of yourself and your family. Youngers moved to Ephrata after a divorce to be close to her mother, she said. While …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
The Southern Gypsie: Local boutique offers ‘barnyard chic’
EPHRATA — Erin Fruge opened The Southern Gypsie boutique in Ephrata at 444 Basin St. NW in Ephrata on Feb. 5.
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Ephrata SD receives $110K grant for digital whiteboards
EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District Board of Directors accepted a $110,000 federal grant which will be used to purchase Promethean digital boards and training for teachers to integrate them into their classrooms. “With this grant, we will be able to fulfill that vision of having an interactive Promethean panel …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Students, supporters protest mask requirement at MLSD meeting
MOSES LAKE — Several students and their supporters were asked to leave after they refused to wear masks at last Thursday’s Moses Lake School District Board of Directors meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
'Barnyard chic': The Southern Gypsie boutique opens in Ephrata
EPHRATA — Erin Fruge opened The Southern Gypsie boutique in Ephrata at 444 Basin St. NW in Ephrata on Feb. 5. The business specializes in gifts, clothing and décor made by Columbia Basin artisans with what Fruge calls a “barnyard chic” style.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Grant County works to establish drug court
EPHRATA — Grant County is in the process of implementing a drug court aimed at reducing recidivism among defendants with a history of drug use associated with their alleged crimes.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Basin swimmers head to state
FEDERAL WAY — Fifteen Columbia Basin swimmers and divers will be headed to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association state swim and dive meet Feb. 17-19 in Federal Way.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Warden High School locked down due to gas leak
Warden High School was put into a shelter-in-place scenario Monday morning after construction crews working nearby damaged an underground natural gas line.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Two Moses Lake men arrested in connection with Carl’s Jr. robbery
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 30 armed robbery of the Carl’s Jr. on Kittleson Road in Moses Lake, according to an announcement from the Moses Lake Police Department.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
The search is on: Consultant says MLSD to get quality candidates for superintendent
Moses Lake School Board members met with representatives of their superintendent search consultant, Northwest Leadership Associates during a special Wednesday afternoon meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake moves forward with study to address shelterlessness
In a split vote, the Moses Lake City Council passed a motion to move forward with a feasibility study to identify what steps need to be taken to address shelterlessness in the city. Council members also voted unanimously to terminate a contract with Wenatchee-based Pacific Security, the company that patrols …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake High School awaits final word on Chiefs moniker
With the enactment of a new state law last year, legislators in Olympia made it illegal for a school to inappropriately use a Native American word or image as a logo or mascot – but that doesn’t necessarily mean the Moses Lake High School will be changing its moniker, Chiefs, …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Adams County Sheriff’s Office seeks alleged robbery suspects
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is looking for two suspects after a robbery Monday at the Country Travel Plaza at 790 Pence Road in Lind, Washington.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
ACSO deputies arrest Arizona man for alleged drug, weapon possession
Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Michael C. Hernandez, 25, of Yuma, Arizona, after a Feb. 2 traffic stop revealed he had no driver’s license and was wanted in his home state.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Help wanted: GCSO begins recruitment measures to fill more than a dozen positions
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office wants quality candidates to know GCSO has opportunities for experienced and green recruits, according to Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Vanguard Academy staff get a peek at new spaces
Vanguard Academy staff toured Moses Lake School District’s newest campus, Vanguard Academy, Thursday afternoon.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Drug crisis: Officials look for ways to combat opioid epidemic
Medical providers and health officials in Grant County say they are concerned about the ongoing opioid epidemic as they try to help those facing addiction get clean and avoid overdoses.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Federal broadband grants awarded to area school districts
Moses Lake, Othello, Ephrata, Royal City, Ritzville and Washtucna school districts have been awarded grants through the American Rescue Plan Act, according to a press release Jan. 21 from the office of U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-WA.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Sheriff discusses jail, legislation, crime at town hall
Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones had a town hall – the first in more than two years – at the Larson community sheriff’s substation in Moses Lake Tuesday evening.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Safeway begins online programs to fight food insecurity
Safeway announced on Jan. 6 it is accepting online Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in addition to several other measures meant to fight food insecurity under its newly-dubbed Nourish Everyone Campaign.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake Carl’s Jr. allegedly robbed by armed men
Two female Carl’s Jr. employees are okay, if a bit shaken, after two men armed with a pistol allegedly robbed the restaurant at 1765 Kittelson Road in Moses Lake at about 10 p.m. Sunday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Schools get mastery-based learning grants
The Washington State Board of Education (SBE) recently announced the award of tens of thousands of dollars in funding for mastery-based learning programs to 14 Washington school districts, including those serving Quincy and Moses Lake.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
A place to stay: Moses Lake continues to tackle shelter challenges
MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake continues to work to help those facing shelterlessness, but getting a consensus in the community and from city council seemed challenging after council members tabled a request from city administration Tuesday to hire a consultant to plan a transitional campus, which may …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Grand Coulee Dam SD talks native policies, levy
Grand Coulee Dam School District Superintendent Paul Turner said the district’s board of directors reviewed the upcoming levy election, enrollment and tribal policies during its Monday meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
MLSD prepares to test kids for NOVA
As February approaches, the Moses Lake School District is preparing to test students for eligibility for its highly capable program, dubbed NOVA.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
ML City Council postpones decision on transitional campus
Moses Lake City Council voted unanimously to postpone a vote that would have allowed city staff to move forward with hiring a planning consultant for a proposed $13-17 million transitional campus for the shelterless on West Central Drive during its Tuesday meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Cancellations continue for ML school bus routes due to COVID-19
The Moses Lake School District canceled eight bus routes Monday morning in response to bus drivers and bus driver assistants who had COVID-19 or reported close contact with positive cases of the disease.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Off the road: MLSD forced to cancel bus routes due to COVID-19, seeks substitute drivers
The Moses Lake School District was forced to cancel 13 bus routes on Wednesday, 15 Thursday and another dozen on Friday after bus drivers and bus driver assistants were in short supply due to having COVID-19 or being exposed to someone with the virus.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
MLSD moves forward with search for a superintendent
The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors on Thursday heard an update from Bill Jordan regarding the district’s ongoing search for a superintendent.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
GC Fairgrounds to add new events this year
Grant County Fairgrounds is set to host a variety of events this year, including the annual Grant County Fair and the first annual ’90s Tribute Fest, said Grant County Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Grant County faces problem of catalytic converter thefts
A catalytic converter was reported stolen from a transit bus at the Meditech Mobility facility at 630 E. Broadway Ave. in Moses Lake over the weekend, one theft of dozens like it already this year in Grant County, according to law enforcement authorities.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
GCSO responds to two possible drive-by shootings
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office responded to two possible drive-by shootings in Moses Lake on Sunday and Tuesday morning, both in the 1000 block of Vandenburg Loop Northeast, near the intersection with Doolittle Drive, according to GCSO Lt. Ricardo Char.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake police respond to shooting on Vince Road Northeast
Moses Lake Police Department officers responded to a report of gunfire in the 8600 block of Vince Road Northeast shortly after 10 p.m. Friday.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
MLSD board members to decide how to accommodate growth
Phil Crocker of Teater-Crocker, Inc. – a planning consultant for the Moses Lake School District – delivered a presentation during the school board’s Thursday meeting on needs the district is facing in the next few years as the district’s student body continues to grow.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Inslee activates Washington National Guard due to omicron
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced during a Thursday afternoon press conference he is activating 100 Washington National Guard troops to help in hospitals and taking other measures to help hospital workers slammed with an overload of patients during the current surge of the omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that …
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Moving toward permanence: Moses Lake identifies new site for Open Doors Sleep Center
Moses Lake City Manager Allison Williams provided an update on the city’s plans to address the needs of those facing shelterlessness in the city during Tuesday’s Grant County Board of Commissioners meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Hankins named Moses Lake mayor; Myers deputy mayor
The city of Moses Lake has a new mayor, as city council members voted to elect Dean Hankins to the role during their Tuesday evening meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Grand Coulee Dam overhaul completed
The Bureau of Reclamation and the Bonneville Power Administration recently announced a long-running overhaul of three generators at the Grand Coulee Dam was completed in September 2021, according to a press release from both agencies.
BASINBUSINESSJOURNAL | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
MLSD to hold open house for Vanguard Academy
The Moses Lake School District will host an open house for potential students interested in attending its latest campus, Vanguard Academy, from 6-8 p.m. today at Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center, 900 Yonezawa Blvd. in Moses Lake.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Man arrested in connection with alleged rape in Othello
A Connell man was arrested Friday in connection with an alleged rape near Othello.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Two arrested in connection with drive-by near Othello
Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a drive-by shooting in the 2100 block of West Shelly Road in the Othello area Wednesday evening, according to the ACSO.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
ACSO officers help recover vehicle; 3 arrested
Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a recovered stolen vehicle call Jan. 3 in which the vehicle reportedly was followed by the caller, according to an ACSO social media.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Grant County commissioners say no to county income taxes
The Grant County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to institute a ban on a county-assessed income tax for Grant County residents. In doing so, the county joins Moses Lake and several other Washington municipalities in opposition to such a tax.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
INET seizes $2.08 million in illicit drugs; suspect makes bond
Officers with the Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team, also known as INET, seized about $2.08 million in methamphetamine and fentanyl pills on Dec. 24.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Man robs Safeway pharmacy in Ephrata
An armed man walked into the Safeway at 1150 Basin St. SW in Ephrata on Christmas Eve and walked out with hundreds of pain pills, according to Ephrata Police Department Capt. Erik Cook.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Grand Coulee Dam overhaul ensures 30 more years of service
The Bureau of Reclamation and the Bonneville Power Administration recently announced a long-running overhaul of three generators at the Grand Coulee Dam was completed in September 2021, according to a press release from both agencies.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Due caution: Mindfulness can prevent fraud in repairs, remodeling
Winter weather, the start of the new year and a plethora of home improvement shows may see Columbia Basin homeowners eyeing repairs or improvements to their homes.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Water needs loom: Moses Lake eyes future of the city’s supply
During its last meeting of the year, the Moses Lake City Council heard an update on the city’s fresh water supply and the need to maintain and expand water sources for the city over the next two decades with certain city wells having reduced water levels.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
GCSO internal affairs investigation into time reporting yields mixed results
An investigation into allegations of inappropriate time reporting on the part of Grant County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division Chief Ken Jones was completed with mixed results, according to a report from Capt. Edgar Reinfeld of the Wenatchee Police Department, the agency that conducted the inquiry.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Body found in Quincy under suspicious circumstances
The Quincy Police Department announced Tuesday the body of a Hispanic man was found outside in the 300 block of H Street Southwest late in the afternoon under suspicious circumstances.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Grand Coulee Dam School District voters to decide on two levies
The Grand Coulee Dam School District will have two levy propositions on the ballot for the Feb. 8, 2022, special election. The levies will be continuations of the capital, safety and technology levy and the educational programs and operations levy, according to the Grant County Elections Office
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Adams County Sheriff’s Office gets busy two days; three arrested for alleged vehicle theft
Adams County Sheriff Dale Wagner said Tuesday his department made eight arrests Monday and Tuesday – three of which were associated with vehicle thefts.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
It's cold: Officials urge shelterless to seek warming centers
Moses Lake officials are asking those facing shelterlessness to seek warming centers as temperatures this week are expected to remain below freezing, and even below zero in areas with snow cover.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake City Council discusses roundabout project
Moses Lake City Council members received an update on the upcoming installation of a traffic circle at the intersection of North Grape Drive and state Route 17 during the council’s Dec. 14 meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
ML man appears in court in alleged assault case
A Moses Lake man appeared in Grant County Superior Court Thursday for allegedly assaulting a woman he knew and interfering with domestic violence reporting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake School Board considers sale of land to Grant County
The Moses Lake School Board approved moving forward with the potential sale of property located at the northwest corner of the intersection of West Valley Road and Paxson Drive during its Dec. 16 meeting.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Moses Lake man appears in court on rape charges
A Moses Lake man accused of raping a child, which resulted in a baby’s birth, had his first appearance Thursday afternoon in Grant County Superior Court.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
On pause: Ephrata halts work on sewer improvements after archaeological find
Construction of sewer improvements on Third Avenue in Ephrata has been put on hold after some unspecified archaeological artifacts were found while crews were digging in late November.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Four subcontractor workers fired in political banner incident at MLSD site
Four employees of a subcontractor have been dismissed from their positions after raising a political banner with epithets directed at President Joe Biden at the construction site for Vanguard Academy, the Moses Lake School District’s new specialty high school.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
ML man arrested in alleged assault of infant
A Moses Lake man was arrested Saturday after an investigation allegedly identified him as a suspect in a child abuse case.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
ML police search for suspect in alleged armed robbery
The Moses Lake Police Department is looking for the suspect in a possible armed robbery, who was described as a white woman between the ages of 30 and 40 and about 5 feet, 5 inches to 5 feet, 7 inches tall.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Commission appoints new prosecutor for Grant County
Members of the Grant County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Monday afternoon to appoint Kevin McCrae as chief prosecutor for the county.
COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 2 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
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