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Lady Chargers Close Regular Volleyball Season Strong - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Lady Chargers Close Regular Volleyball Season Strong October 29, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The Springdale Lady Chargers closed out their regular season in dominant fashion last week, sweeping both Wilbur-Creston-Keller and Chesterton Academy to lock down fifth place in the NE 1B standings. The wins pushed Mary Walker’s record to 8-4 in league play and 13-8 overall as they head into this week’s district tournament with plenty of momentum. The Chargers handled visiting Wilbur-Creston-Keller on Oct. 21, 25-22, 25-16, 25-16 behind a balanced offensive attack led by Kaylin Gines, who tallied 12 kills and three solo blocks while hitting .478. Ashlynn-Mae Ford and Kazlin Rainer each added six kills, while McKinley Schroeder chipped in five kills on a .500 hitting percentage. Setter duties were split between Kameron Cloninger and Addisyn Matherly-Stricker, who each dished out 12 assists. Defensively, Gines anchored the back row as well, collecting 21 digs, while junior Imani Hutchinson added five. At the service line, Rainer led the way with four aces and 11 points, while senior Aubrey Ferguson added a steady nine points and Schroeder served up two aces. The team served at a 93% clip overall. Springdale carried that momentum into their road trip to Spokane on Oct. 23, where they swept Chesterton Academy of Notre Dame 25-22, 25-12, 25-23. The Lady Chargers used strong serving runs and steady net play to put away the Saints in straight sets. With the pair of wins, Mary Walker finishes the regular season riding a two-match winning streak and the Lady Chargers will open district tournament play this week, aiming to extend their postseason run and build on a strong finish to an impressive 2025 campaign. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Kettle Falls Boys Basketball Brings Back Experience for 2025-26 - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Kettle Falls Boys Basketball Brings Back Experience for 2025-26 November 26, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen After a rebuilding year that saw just five wins, the Kettle Falls boys basketball team enters the 2025-26 season with some hunger; their coach emphasized the team is ready to eat in the competitive Northeast 2B North. While he’s steering clear of specific benchmarks, head coach Cameron Stewart said the tone is clear. “As far as win totals or where we will finish in the league, I don’t like to make predictions,” he said. “I will say that I expect improvement from last season.” Steward said the Bulldogs returned only one starter last year; this year, Kettle Falls has 20 players turning out, giving the Bulldogs their strongest numbers in several years. Stewart said he expects to carry two seniors, five juniors and one or two sophomores on varsity. The lineup will be anchored by a trio of veteran seniors who logged major minutes a year ago. Mace Thivierge, a 6-foot-2 senior guard and second-team all-league pick, is expected to be the team’s focal point. “He was also our sixth man the previous season, so he’s very experienced,” Stewart said. “Mace is very competitive. He loves to win and hates to lose even more. He’s very skilled, can really shoot the ball, and has a high basketball I.Q. He’s really matured over the last year, and I look forward to seeing him become a stronger leader. I know he’s ready for that challenge. He’s going to receive a ton of attention from opposing teams, so other guys have to step up and make plays on a consistent basis.” In the paint, 6-foot-5 post Jaxon Fandrey brings strength and experience after starting every game last winter. “[Fandrey’s] a smart kid, very strong, and works his tail off,” Stewart said. “He was a difference maker for us last year and I’m excited about his progress going into his senior season.” Senior guard Cooper McKern returns after starting 20 games last year – most of them while playing through a broken shoulder suffered during football season. “Up until then, he was probably our best on-ball defender, and his offense was starting to emerge,” Stewart said. “Cooper has a big-time motor, and his skills and athleticism have improved in the off-season. Offensively, he attacks the basket, and he’s developing a nice jump shot. Defensively, he’s just relentless. He has that Dawg in him that you love to see.” Sophomore guard Zac Burch is one of the team’s emerging talents. “[Burch is] athletic and scrappy, has great hands and a nose for the basketball,” Stewart said. “He still needs a lot of refinement but he’s a kid who’s going to get us extra possessions and fill the stat sheet with his hustle. He really excels in transition, and we intend to play faster this season.” A strong junior class – Alex Mazanek, Cody Adams, Ben Higgins and Zander Johnson – adds athleticism and depth, each bringing “a different dynamic” to the lineup, according to Stewart. Versatility may also define this year’s team. “I think we can be versatile defensively because we have some quickness and, hopefully, some quality depth,” Stewart said. “We can play man or zone, fundamental half court defense, or trap and press. I think our guys will execute our offense much better this season. Our returning guys are pretty familiar with our concepts, and we will be faster in transition this season.” With an experienced roster and, elsewhere, heavy roster turnover across the Northeast 2B North, Stewart said he sees opportunity. “We feel like the North is pretty wide open, but it’s safe to say that Reardan is the favorite,” he said. “They have size, athleticism, and great shooters. More importantly, they play excellent defense.” Northwest Christian remains a contender with a returning all-league standout, while Saint George’s – despite graduating its trio of all-league seniors – remains dangerous. “I have a ton of respect for their coaching staff. They always get the best out of their players,” Stewart said. Davenport returns one of the league’s top scorers in Cage Colbert. Chewelah brings back dynamic senior guard Ryen McMillen. Newport, meanwhile, enters with a new staff and several new faces. Kettle Falls won’t be leaning on predictions, but with veteran leadership, athletic depth and more experience under its belt, Stewart said he believes the Bulldogs will look much more like the program that won 17 games two seasons ago. “I think our guys are hungrier this year, and I’m looking forward to seeing who steps up,” Stewart said. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Colville Seniors Shine in Win Over Northwest Christian - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Colville Seniors Shine in Win Over Northwest Christian October 29, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen On a night filled with emotion, the Colville Crimson Hawks sent their seniors out in style Friday, Oct. 24, defeating perennial 2B powerhouse Northwest Christian 44–35 in a thrilling back-and-forth battle at home. The non-league victory capped Senior Night with fireworks on both sides of the ball, as Colville used a dominant rushing attack and key defensive stands to fend off a late Northwest Christian surge. Senior quarterback Brock Benson led the charge with 138 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 18 carries, while completing nine out of 11 passes for 82 yards and two scores. Fellow senior Mason Beardsley added 92 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries, including a clutch fourth-down conversion late in the game that helped seal the win. “Mason has been a great player for us all year,” said head coach William Benbrook. “He did a great job running behind the excellent blocking of the O-line. We knew he was going to be getting the ball a lot this game. His 4 th down conversion helped us seal the game! It was a very pivotal play that kept NWC's offense off the field and set up a touchdown later in that drive.” After falling behind 7–0 early, Colville erupted for 22 unanswered points in the second quarter, with Beardsley and Benson finding the end zone multiple times. Benson connected with junior Baxter Phipps on a short touchdown pass and later hit senior Bridger Lewis for a key two-point conversion. The Hawks added two more scores in the second half, including a 38-yard Benson touchdown run to secure the victory despite a furious 28-point fourth quarter from Northwest Christian. For Benbrook, the win was a reflection of the team’s maturity and determination on a night that can often be distracting as it's the final home game for some players. “All week we talked about making the best possible memories on senior night,” he said. “We leaned into the atmosphere and challenged the seniors to do everything they could to win on possibly their last home game. The challenge for the underclassmen was to do everything they can and play for the seniors. It was a great win against a team that beat us last year.” The Crimson Hawks’ defense, led by Benson (10 tackles), Lewis (12), and Beardsley (eight), came up with timely stops throughout the night. It wasn't easy as the Crusaders big play ability was on display. Colville's defense, however, kept the game under wraps until a late surge by Northwest Christian made it interesting. Benbrook credited his players’ resilience and focus through a challenging schedule. After two league games, Colville had two straight games against 2A squads – both losses – and then returned home to take on a 2B powerhouse. “Our focus has always been to be playing our best football when we have league games,” he said. “With our schedule built the way it was this year, it has allowed us to grow and get better every week. As a team, the boys have been very focused on getting to week nine and playing to our full potential. Every game has been to help us get ready for this week.” Colville faces Lakeside in Suncrest on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 7 p.m. The winner will be crowned NEA League champion. The Crimson Hawks won the same matchup last year in a 13-12 donnybrook. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Busy Year for Colville Farmers Market - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Busy Year for Colville Farmers Market September 3, 2025 By: Isidora Patrick Farmers Market wrap-up. W ith just a month left of farmers' market season,. Kelli Lippert, farmers' market coordinator for Colville, gave some insight on the market this year. According to Lippert, this year has been busier than the previous, with more vendors participating as well. She also said that Wednesday markets seem to see more customers as community events on Saturdays sometimes detract from the market. Many v endors stated that July through September is the busier part of the season, according to Lippert; this may be due to most produce being at max harvest during these months. Lippert discussed how some of the longer-standing vendors have chosen not to participate in the market next year, but for good reason. These vendors are planning to open shops of their own, Lippert said, which could supply them with a more consistent profit. W hile growth may be an overall goal for many vendors, when asked what their favorite part of the farmers market was, a majority spoke about the joy their products brought customers, along with the social connections they are able to make. According to Lippert, the farmers market has participated in many programs this season as well, including EBT and SNAP food benefits. She noted that Providence has had a booth every Wednesday, offering free blood pressure checks for patrons. She also discussed how the Rotary Club of Colville has participated in the “no produce left behind” program. This program allows the Rotary Club of Colville to use grant funding to purchase unsold produce at the farmers market and donate it to local food banks. Lippert added that the Rotary Club of Colville is planning to do aPumpkins for Polio fundraiser in September. She said the club will have a booth every Saturday, selling decorative pumpkins; the funds raised will go towards polio v accines in other countries. For more information, visit newfarmersmarket.org . Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Hunters' Education Available Before Fall Season - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Hunters' Education Available Before Fall Season August 6, 2025 By: Staff Report The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is encouraging new hunters to complete the mandatory hunter education course as soon as possible during the summer offerings. “Many WDFW volunteer instructors hold hunter education classes in the summer, making it easier to get into a class,” said Dave Whipple, WDFW hunter education section manager. “In the fall, those same volunteers are out hunting, which means we have fewer courses available. Completing the course now ensures you will be able to participate in hunting seasons this fall and beyond.” According to Whipple, WDFW offers in-person hunter education courses as well as hybrid courses that combine online and in-person learning. Per Washington state law, all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course to buy a hunting license. To learn more, visit the WDFW hunter education webpage at wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/requirements/education/basic . Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Springdale's State Run Ends One Win Shy of Trophy Round After Strong Showing in Yakima - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Springdale's State Run Ends One Win Shy of Trophy Round After Strong Showing in Yakima November 19, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The Springdale Chargers conclude the 2025 volleyball season. The Springdale Chargers wrapped up an impressive season at the State 1B Volleyball Tournament on Nov. 13, finishing 14-8 after a two-day run that included a commanding first-round win, a gritty quarterfinal appearance, and a hard-fought battle in the consolation bracket. “I felt really good about the bracket going in,” Springdale head coach Matt Gines said. “I felt that my team was playing well ending the season in our tournament play and felt we matched up very well with our opponents.” Gines said the pressure of a state tournament was his worry, considering the young players on his roster, including his setters. He did, however, feel like the weekend could turn into a big run through the bracket. Springdale opened the tournament Nov. 12, with a poised four-set victory over Northwest Christian (NWC), earning their way into the state quarterfinals. The Chargers took the first set 25-17 after holding narrow leads at 10-10, 17-15 and 20-16, pushing ahead with steady serving and strong attacking. NWC responded in the second, jumping out to leads of 9-1 and 20-13 before taking the set 25-15. The match turned again in the third, where Springdale erased deficits of 12-11 and 17-14 before storming back to win 25-20. The Chargers closed out the match in dominant fashion, rolling out to leads of 12-5, 19-9, and ultimately taking the set 25-13 to move into the quarterfinals. Junior Kaylin Gines led the way with 25 kills while Kazlin Rainer notched 10 kills. “Our energy was simply unmatched,” Rainer said. Gines also dished out an incredible 10 aces in the matchup. Rainer, meanwhile, menaced the net with four total blocks. Kameron Cloninger dished out 18 assists as a freshman, while Addisyn Matherly Stricker had 14 assists. This advanced Springdale into the quarterfinal on Nov. 12, Springdale came out swinging against Fellowship Christian, holding leads of 10-8, 15-10, and 21-20 in the opening frame. But Fellowship closed the set on a late run to win 25-22, then carried that momentum into the next two sets, taking them 25-17 and 25-14. “The defining moments I felt in this tournament were the first sets in both the second and third matches,” Gines said. “We had a good lead in both of our first sets and were not able to finish, which allowed doubt to creep into the youth of my team. I feel that if we would have been able to win those first sets, we would have won both matches.” Gines and Rainer again led the assault with Gines posting 11 kills and Rainer having nine. Trinity Farnsworth also had four aces. Rainer posted four blocks again, while Gines anchored the back row during rotation with 10 digs and received 22 serves from Fellowship Christian. Farnsworth also had five digs. Cloninger set nine assists up while Matherly-Stricker had seven. Despite the loss, Springdale’s early pressure highlighted the competitive edge the Chargers brought to Yakima –a theme that carried into the elimination match on Nov. 13. With a trophy-bracket berth on the line, Springdale met Wilbur-Creston-Keller (WCK) in one of the tournament’s most competitive consolation matches. The Lady Chargers had defeated them twice in the regular season, but both had already had competitive days of volleyball under their belts and this was a morning matchup with plenty on the line. Springdale led much of the first set – up 11-8, 14-8, 19-16 – before WCK rallied late to tie the score at 23-23 and edge out a 27-25 win. WCK carried that energy into the second set, building leads of 11-4 and 20-10 before claiming a 25-14 victory. The Chargers refused to bow out quietly. Springdale dominated the third set, charging ahead 5-3, 14-9 and 21-12 before finishing with a decisive 25-15 win. But WCK responded in the fourth, jumping ahead 7-4 and 13-4. Springdale closed the gap to 18-14, but WCK held firm, taking the set 25-18 and ending Springdale’s tournament run just short of the medal round. “We felt we were the better team in both of those matches,” Kaylin Gines said. “However we learned that we need to do a better job of staying together and keeping our energy and positivity up.” Gines had 14 kills in the matchup, while Rainer had five and Ashlynn-Mae Ford had six. At the service stripe, Gines sent seven aces over the net while Rainer had three. The two also combined for 10 blocks in the matchup. Gines again led the team with 19 digs, while Farnsworth was also very solid with 16 digs. Senior Aubrey Ferguson also played a great defensive match in her final game as a Lady Charger with 12 digs. Gines also dished out 13 assists, while Ford and Matherly-Stricker each had five assists. While the loss ended their push for hardware, Springdale’s 14-8 season reflects one of the program’s strongest years in the past decade. “I felt coming into the season that we had talent, but was not sure how our youth and lack of experience would impact us,” Gines said. “We had a lot of ups and downs but in the end, had a very successful season. We are a bit disappointed that we did not place, but it really has motivated us going into next year.” Springdale will return everyone except their one graduating senior next year, meaning they’ll essentially have a full roster with state experience. “I really feel that we will be extremely dangerous next season,” Gines said. “This was a great season for our young kids to grow up and get the experience they needed for next season and know what we need to work on.” Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Help Plants Beat the Heat in Your Late-Summer Garden - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Help Plants Beat the Heat in Your Late-Summer Garden September 3, 2025 By: Kathy Hansen, WSU Stevens County Master Gardener Perennial Wisdom, 09/03/2025. Although this summer in northeast Washington has felt comfortable to some, statistics show we had record hot temperatures in July, and forecasters speculate about the hottest September on record. September will bring some relief, but periods of high temperatures will still test your garden's resilience. Here are key strategies to maintain plant health and productivity as the harvest season continues. Watering is essential. Maintaining moist soil is a top priority. Pay close attention to areas that get full sun, as they can dry out the quickest. A good rule is to water when the top one or two inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Penn State master gardener Christa Shoreman recommended an inch of water weekly for plants in the garden. For a more efficient approach, consider using watering stakes or tubes for larger plants like trees and shrubs. These deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing waste from evaporation. Similarly, a soaker hose or drip-irrigation system with a slow flow can ensure water penetrates deep into the soil where it's needed most. Mulching for moisture retention. Mulch is a gardener's best friend. It can act as a protective layer that not only helps the soil retain moisture, but also shields plants and their roots from extreme heat. Mulching materials include wood chips, bark chips, and even deciduous leaves. If you're using a soaker hose or drip line, a layer of mulch on top can further reduce water loss through evaporation. For all watering, try to do it in the morning to give the plants a good drink before the midday sun. Caring for container gardens. Plants in containers may be particularly vulnerable to heat. Their confined root systems and the rapid heat absorption of their pots mean they can dry out at an alarming rate. In the middle of summer, container plants may need to be watered as often as twice a day to keep them hydrated and healthy. Establish a consistent routine. A simple, repeated routine can help keep a garden healthy. As one Pacific Northwest gardening blogger, Erica, wrote, adopt the mantra, "Weed, water, mulch. Repeat, repeat, repeat." She also emphasized the importance of a continuous cycle of harvesting, picking, and gathering to encourage more production. Specialized care for specific plants. Some plants have unique needs that require extra attention during the heat. Keep a close eye on fruiting plants such as cucumbers, beans, and peppers. Also, any transplants or seedlings recently put in for a fall or winter garden will need consistent watering to get established. Finally, don't forget about camellias; a deep watering now is crucial to help them develop the flower buds that can bring beautiful blooms next spring. On the flip side, cut down on watering trees, shrubs and vines to harden them for winter, according to Oregon State University. The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program trains volunteers to be effective community educators in gardening and environmental stewardship. Master Gardeners provide information generated from research at WSU and other university systems. Kathy Hansen, an educator and writer who lives in Kettle Falls, has been a Master Gardener volunteer since 2019. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Colville Wrestling Aims for Big Season with Talented Lineup - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Colville Wrestling Aims for Big Season with Talented Lineup November 26, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen With one of its deepest rosters in years and multiple returning state qualifiers, the Colville wrestling program enters the winter with momentum and expectations under third-year head coach Nick Mahugh. “I am very excited for this season," Mahugh said. "It will be the first season in a long time that we should have a full dual line up (we have 20 boys and three girls this year).” That depth is anchored by a strong core of returning standouts, including junior Bryce Davis, the team’s lone returning captain. “Bryce Davis is our only returning team captain and state placed from last year and is coming into this season already ranked in state,” Mahugh said. Two more juniors, Jacob Klauder and Jack Canada, also bring state-tournament experience back into the fold. “Jacob Klauder and Jack Canada were state participants last year and they are looking good this year as well as freshman Trent Seitters,” Mahugh said. “I’m expecting big things from those three boys also.” On the girls’ side, sophomore Haidyn Sackman returns after a breakthrough season and enters the winter already within the state rankings. “Sophomore Haidyn Sackman is also a returning state participant that is coming into this season ranked in the state for her weight class,” Mahugh said. Colville will again compete in a compact league, presenting limited home opportunities for fans to see the team locally. “We have a smaller, four-team league again this year, so we will only have two home duals,” Mahugh said. “But we will be heading to a lot of tournaments this year and get good opportunities to see tough competition.” With returning talent, a fuller lineup, and a schedule built for growth, Mahugh said the Crimson Hawks expect to be tested as they chase another strong postseason showing. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Fort Colvile Summit to Revisit 200 Years of History and the Fur Trade's Legacy - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Fort Colvile Summit to Revisit 200 Years of History and the Fur Trade's Legacy October 15, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen Editor’s Note: Unlike the city of Colville, Fort Colvile is spelled without the double “l”. Local historians and authors are scheduled to gather Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Mistequa Hotel & Casino for the Fort Colvile Summit, a free, public event exploring the 200-year legacy of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Colvile and its impact on the Inland Northwest. Hosted by The Heritage Network, organizers said the summit runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features a roundtable discussion led by Spokane author Jack Nisbet, alongside regional historians and writers who have spent years studying the fur trade era and early interactions between settlers and Indigenous communities. Kettle Falls-based historian Joe Barreca, who helped organize the event, said the day is designed as an “authors and historians roundtable,” bringing together some of the Pacific Northwest’s most knowledgeable voices on the subject. “The Fort Colvile Summit is a chance for knowledgeable people to exchange ideas on what they think needs to be said today about the establishment of Hudson’s Bay Fort Colvile 200 years ago,” Barreca said. The morning session is planned to feature Nisbet as the leadoff speaker, joined by Spokane Tribal historian Warren Seyler, and public historians Phil Goldenman, Tom Holloway, Mark Weadick, and Tina Wynecoop. Authors Alix Christie, Andrew Perkins, Laura Stovel, and Steve Anderson will also participate, sharing their research and perspectives on the fur trade’s influence on local culture, economy, and geography. “Jack Nisbet agreed to be the leadoff speaker,” Barreca said. “I’m not expecting him to dominate the discussion – there will be a lot of knowledgeable speakers at this event.” Fort Colvile, established in 1825 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, served as one of the most important trading posts in the Pacific Northwest, according to Barreca. It connected fur traders, Indigenous communities, and early settlers across what is now eastern Washington and southern British Columbia. The summit aims to explore not only the fort’s history but also its continuing relevance in understanding regional identity, land use, and intercultural relationships two centuries later. Organizers encouraged pre-registration to help manage attendance and said a teleconference option will also be available for those who cannot attend in person. Following the morning discussion, attendees can stay for lunch and breakout sessions from noon to 3 p.m., providing more opportunities for direct conversation with the panelists. More information and registration details are available at TheHeritageNetwork.org/FortColvileSummit . Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Hunters Girls Basketball Returns to the Court with First Varsity Team in Years - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Hunters Girls Basketball Returns to the Court with First Varsity Team in Years November 26, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen For the first time in several years, Hunters High School will field a varsity girls basketball team. “Considering we only have nine girls in the high school, I think just having a team is pretty impressive,” head coach Bobbi Ward said. This winter’s roster has six total players – one senior, one sophomore, and four freshmen. The junior high season is still underway, but Ward hopes to have two eighth-grade girls playing up. Ward said she’s entering the season with a focus on development, positivity, and enjoying the experience. “Our expectations going into the season are to learn to work as a team, do our best, and have fun, no matter what,” she said. “We will make a lot of mistakes, as we are a very young team, but learning from them and staying positive is what I hope that they get out of the season.” The lone senior on the roster is poised for a special year after spending her high school career playing boys junior varsity (JV) basketball. “It will be awesome for our senior to have a girls' team her senior year, as she has been playing on the boys JV throughout high school, just so that she could play,” Ward said. She added she isn't sure who will be the standout leaders until games begin, but she already sees qualities that could become the team’s foundation as they adjust to varsity competition. “Hopefully our strengths will be that they will be tough, with only one sub that they will be in great shape, and they are on the aggressive side,” she said. Because Hunters High School hasn’t had a girls team for years, scouting league opposition is a challenge. “We truly haven't seen too many of the girls' teams play,” Ward said. “Just from watching volleyball, I would assume that Northport will be pretty tough, if the same girls play.” Still, Ward said the season’s biggest goals have nothing to do with the win-loss record. “We are young, pretty inexperienced and hopefully they have a fun season,” she said. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Colville Together and CJHS Students Work to Create New Mural - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Colville Together and CJHS Students Work to Create New Mural August 27, 2025 By: Meredith Carroll Colville Together announced that it has received funding from the Innovia Foundation for a mural project in the amount of $3,000. “The money awarded will support a new youth-led mural project as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance public spaces and foster community pride,” said Rosemary Shaw, executive director of Colville Together. Shaw said, “This funding, awarded through Innovia’s 2025 Community Grant program, aligns with this year’s funding theme of youth engagement, [which is] aimed at creating more opportunities for young people to connect, contribute, and reduce social isolation.” She added that Colville Together plans to partner with Colville Junior High School (CJHS) to involve student artists in the design and creation of a public mural in downtown Colville. The Innovia Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving eastern Washington and north Idaho, providing grants and scholarships to people who want to improve their communities “where every person has the opportunity to thrive.” Amy Anderson plans to coordinate with the building owner regarding potential designs. “In the fall, the students will begin participating in the design process. Hopefully in the spring, the mural will be installed by Mrs. Anderson and her students,” said Shaw. The project will include student workshops, design showcases, and public painting days intended to bring the community together.According to Shaw, the mural is to be installed in Heritage Court, in keeping with Colville Together’s mission to revitalize and activate public spaces. She said this initiative builds on a mural created by CJHS students in the fall of 2024. Inspired by a national kindness campaign launched by CBS News and Character Counts! – an organization that focuses on building students’ character skills and shaping a positive school culture – Anderson said she led her students in designing and painting a mural with a message of giving back to the community, paying it forward, and unsolicited acts of kindness. The mural is located on the back side of the school facing the football field. According to Anderson, the students worked together to create a message of kindness and compassion. “Kindness is a gift you can give freely,” said Anderson. “We need to be kind to each other. We need to work with each other and understand other people’s values.” “We are excited to give young people a visible and lasting role in shaping the look and feel of downtown,” said Shaw, who added that she looks forward to “adding more student-led artwork that celebrates local identity and encourages shared pride in public spaces.” For more information, visit colvilletogether.org . Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Valley School District Breaks Ground on New Early Learning Center - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Valley School District Breaks Ground on New Early Learning Center October 8, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The dirt was flying last Tuesday, Sept. 30, as the Valley School District officially broke ground on its new Valley Early Learning Center that aims to support young learners with a modern, permanent, purpose-built space to grow, learn, and play. “The new school will be a game-changer for our community,” Early Learning Center director Candace Harris said. “Every year we have had to turn away families simply because we didn’t have enough space. With additional classrooms, we will be able to eliminate our waitlist and welcome more children, and expand early learning opportunities for children and families.” Just across the parking lot from the ground breaking sits the current Early Learning Center, a set of aging portable classrooms close to the main school building. The construction bond passed in February with 64.85% approval, allowing for a permanent facility to be designed and built specifically for early education. For Harris, it means that all early learning students will finally be under the same roof. “It is a huge step forward from our aging portable classrooms that really don’t have much life left in them,” Harris said. “It not only allows us to grow, but to make sure the future of early learning is continued. We will have inside space to take children on adverse weather days, a conference room, and a commercial kitchen. This school will offer more learning spaces, make it easier for classrooms to collaborate, and offer larger classrooms to design richer learning centers.” According to officials, the new building, designed by NAC Architecture, will feature a “hillside treehouse” concept, a multi-level structure built into the natural slope of the campus. The design reflects input from Valley Early Learning Center staff and students, who participated in surveys and interactive sessions to share ideas for their “dream school.” Harris said that the design “captures the heart of the community. The building will be tucked into a natural landscape, with a lot of natural light and views of the valley. “It offers that sense of wonder and connection to the outdoors – safe, cozy and surrounded by nature,” Harris said. “The ground-level classrooms will reflect the forest floor. As the children become older, they move up higher in the building, giving the sense of climbing into the sky.” The site, located near the building that houses Columbia Virtual Academy and the Valley School District administration, has already been cleared and heavy machinery is staged as crews prepare for full construction. Excitement was visible among the preschoolers watching the work unfold just steps from their classrooms. “We want to create a space that better supports our inclusion model, helping us with our long-term goal of becoming a demonstration site,” Harris said. “The new design gives us space for family engagement, teacher collaboration, and special service therapists. We also needed to address our kitchen space. We have served over 190 meals and snacks daily out of a tiny, apartment-sized, residential kitchen and have shared space wherever possible to store all of our needed supplies. This building will give us a commercial kitchen that will be able to keep up with our growing enrollment.” The groundbreaking ceremony drew Valley School Board members, staff and young students who will one day fill the hallways of the new center. The moment marked the culmination of months of planning, collaboration, and community engagement. Garco Construction was selected as the project’s general contractor for their professionalism and deep experience in school construction across the region, according to Harris. The facility is expected to blend safety, accessibility, and creativity, providing an engaging environment tailored to early childhood development. “I’m excited for all of it,” Harris said. “The inside play area will give us a space for family events and a mini ‘gym’ for the children, the commercial kitchen, and the simple fact that we will be under one roof,” Harris said. “It finally gives our staff and families a space that truly reflects the quality of care and learning happening inside.” As ceremonial shovels held by students themselves turned the first dirt to cheers and applause, the occasion represented more than just the start of a construction project but rather a sign of growth for the area. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES