Beaton joins news team

RITZVILLE – A Pasco woman has been hired as a reporter for Free Press Publishing.

Abigail Beaton, 19, of Pasco, began Monday, June 12. She will cover Franklin County and southern and western Adams County, including Lind, Washtucna, Hatton, Othello and other areas.

She will also contribute coverage of the Odessa area to the Record-Times newspaper in Davenport.

"I look forwards to meeting and writing for the community," Beaton said.

"Abby is the best applicant for the position that we've had since before gubernatorial COVID-19 shutdowns," Publisher Roger Harnack said. "We're glad to have her aboard."

In addition to being a reporter, Beaton will be a sophomore at North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, in the fall.

She plans to study accounting and English, she said.

"Despite studying accounting, I still believe writing for an audience is an important skill," Beaton said.

Prior to joining Free Press Publishing, Beaton has worked at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as a research intern as well at North Idaho College as a student cook during school.

She enjoys reading and playing beach volleyball, "especially in the spring, when its cooler," she said.

Beaton lives with her parents and 8-year-old sister, who she enjoys taking with her when she travels.

"I love Eastern Washington and have always enjoyed the people around here," she said. "I look forwards to meeting and writing for the community."