A good crowd from around the Columbia Basin turned out Saturday to enjoy a variety of activities and learn about available resources for families during the annual Autism Acceptance Community Day. The free family-oriented event at the courthouse in Ephrata was sponsored by Autism Support Group of Grant County. Photos by Randy Bracht3-year-old Luna Moe of Moses Lake waved to friends while enjoying a horseback ride provided by the Grant County Sheriff’s Posse. Other fun stuff for kids included a variety of games, arts, and …… the always popular inflatable “bouncy houses.”Aundrea Contreras, left, was (briefly) dismayed when Brandon McCord toppled their stack of wooden construction blocks. The two teens are members of the Ephrata High School Honor Society and were among many volunteers helping out during the day. Autism resource and wellness vendors were on hand to provide information about available services to the public.Local firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement had their equipment on display for kids and adults alike to explore. The first responders’ mascots added to the festivities, posing here for photos with chief deputy Josh Sainsbury of the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. The ubiquitous Ephrata Tigers mascot also huddled up with Sharon Scellick (left), Tracy Thomas, and Donna McNeil for snapshots. Along with the courthouse activities, an optional self-guided hike to the Autism Ribbon on Beasley Hill was also featured.
