Journal Lines

Westbound I-90 traffic backed up

Ritzville – Westbound Interstate 90 traffic backed up for several miles from Sunday morning, July 25, until Monday morning, July 26, between Sprague and Ritzville.

The backup covered much of the distance between Mileposts 231-239 by 1:18 p.m., according to the state Department of Transportation.

At its worst, state officials said the backup extended more than 10 miles.

Transportation officials said they had to shut down one lane of the interstate, which caused the backup. The lane shutdown was prompted by new asphalt that was rolled out early Sunday, but didn’t cure.

Because of the asphalt issue, the lane was scheduled to reopen at 9 a.m. Monday.

Sheriffs stand up for rights

Ritzville – Sheriff Dale Wagner is among 37 statewide who sent a letter to the Legislature and governor that they will protect the constitutional rights of Americans.

Only two counties were not represented on the letter.

King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht did not sign the letter and Kitsap County is currently without a sheriff due to a retirement.

Neighboring sheriffs Jim Raymond of Franklin County, Brett Myers of Whitman County Sheriff Tom Jones of Grant County and Ozzie Knezovich of Spokane County.

On social media, Sheriff Wagner told Adams County the letter represents “where I stand as your sheriff.”