In Other News

WSP ISSUES I-90 HANSEN ROAD ADVISORY NEAR MOSES LAKE

MOSES LAKE — The Washington State Patrol is warning motorists to obey a state-designated detour route for the Hansen Road overpass closure at Exit 174 just west of Moses Lake on Interstate 90.

Some motorists are reportedly using emergency vehicle turnouts in the median of I-90 to make illegal u-turns and bypass the detour, said Trooper Jeremy Weber, a WSP information officer, in an advisory issued today (Thursday, Jan. 22).

“Not only is this illegal, but it is extremely dangerous,” said Weber.

Using emergency turnouts or other median sections on a divided highway violates state law and carries a potential $437 fine.

The state Department of Transportation has closed the Hansen Road/I-90 overpass for repairs, and it’s unknown how long the detour will be in place, said Weber.

“Troopers will be monitoring the activity around the established detours and will be enforcing all traffic laws to ensure safe travel and to avoid any serious injury or fatality collisions,” he said.

ALTERNATE POSITION ON HOMELESS TASK FORCE

EPHRATA — Grant County commissioners are accepting applications for appointment to an alternate position serving on the county’s Homeless Housing Task Force.

The vacancy is for a candidate with “Lived Homeless Experience.” Applicants must reside in Grant County, be age 18 or older, and currently identify as homeless or previously homeless. Additionally, applicants must have an active email address and be able to attend monthly meetings in person or online via Zoom.

Prospective candidates should have general knowledge of services provided to homeless persons in the county. Low-income individuals serving on the task force may qualify for compensation for attending monthly meetings. The position carries a two-year term.

The task force typically meets at 2 p.m. on the last Thursday of each month in the commissioners hearing room at the Grant County Courthouse in Ephrata.

Prospective candidates must complete an application for appointment. Forms and information are available on the Grant County website or by contacting the commissioners office at the courthouse (call 509/754-2011, ext. 2928). 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SOAP LAKE LANTERN FESTIVAL NEXT MONTH

SOAP LAKE – An evening of glowing lanterns, music, food, and festive energy are anticipated when the Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce presents a community Lantern Festival next month.

The event is planned Saturday, Feb. 21, beginning at 3 p.m. at the corner of East Main Avenue and Canna Street.

Lantern festivals are globally celebrated cultural events which use illuminated lanterns to symbolize unity, remembrance, and future good luck. 

Along with orbs shimmering in the evening, Soap Lake’s gathering is expected to feature such traditional elements as a dragon dance, music, beverages, and special foods including rich pasties called mooncakes. 

The upcoming festival is being hosted by Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort with sponsorship from Cloudview Kitchen and Recollections.

NCW LIBRARIES WELCOME NEW MEMBERS IN GRANT COUNTY

WENATCHEE – NCW Libraries on Wednesday announced two new members now serving patrons and staff in Grant County.

Earlier this month, Danielle Durr began her role as area manager, overseeing operations at public library locations in Ephrata, George, Mattawa, Royal City, Soap Lake, and Warden, while Génesis Rojas will serve as branch librarian for the Mattawa Public Library.

“Danielle and Génesis each bring a deep commitment to libraries, strong leadership skills, and a genuine passion for community connection,” said Tim Dillman, NCW Libraries’ associate drector for community libraries, in a press release.

“Danielle’s experience supporting teams and building responsive library services will be an incredible asset to our organization,” Dillman continued. “Génesis’ language skills and dedication to community engagement will strengthen the Mattawa Library and help fulfill its potential as a vibrant, welcoming hub for the community.” 

Durr holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in  Library and Information Science with a focus in youth services. Most recently, she served as branch manager at Livingston (Louisiana) Parish Library, overseeing 30 staff members. She has experience in branch management, youth and teen services, collection development, program design, staff training, and community outreach.  

Rojas began her role as branch librarian in Mattawa on Jan. 5. Officials say she has a strong background in library-related work, education, customer service, and community engagement. Her experience includes tutoring, mentoring, and volunteering in library programs including the National Archives, Sorensen Library, local schools, children’s programs, summer reading initiatives, and archival projects.