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Tight Revenue Outlook Puts Pressure on State Budget - 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 Tight Revenue Outlook Puts Pressure on State Budget December 17, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen Washington officials said the state is facing mounting financial pressure heading into the next budget cycle, as declining revenues and rising costs collide after years of rapid spending growth. Officials said the situation marks a sharp shift from the pandemic era, when large infusions of federal relief dollars significantly boosted state revenues. Those temporary funds have now expired, forcing lawmakers to confront structural imbalances in the budget. Washington’s operating and capital budgets have more than doubled over the past decade, according to officials. The state spent roughly $80 billion during the 2013-15 biennium, compared to more than $173 billion in the current two-year budget, according to state officials. At the same time, the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council said projected tax revenue has dropped by about $500 million since lawmakers adopted the latest biennial spending plan. During the most recent budget cycle, legislators faced projected gaps, which they aimed to close through service reductions and tax increases, according to state reps. Despite those actions, the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council has warned of future shortfalls, driven in part by rising health care costs and growing demand for state services. Washington’s Medicaid program has expanded to serve approximately 2.2 million residents, roughly one-quarter of the state’s population. State officials have pointed to health care spending as a major driver of ongoing budget pressures, alongside looming federal reductions to programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. A Senate Ways and Means fiscal analysis projected that the budget could be short by $1.1 billion by the end of the 2027-29 biennium. Looking ahead to the current legislative session, officials said the shortfall is estimated at roughly $390 million. Any changes to the budget already in place would need to be addressed through a supplemental budget approved by lawmakers. Gov. Bob Ferguson said he expects to release his proposed budget this month, setting the stage for House and Senate budget writers to begin work when the 2026 legislative session convenes in January. The governor has indicated his proposal will focus on spending reductions rather than new taxes, an approach that could shape negotiations in Olympia in the months ahead. Local lawmakers have voiced concerns about both the scale of state spending and the tax increases approved in recent sessions. Rep. Hunter Abell (R-Inchelium), criticized the growth of the state budget and its impact on families and businesses. “I’m extremely concerned about the reckless increase in spending and tax hikes adopted by the majority last session. They absolutely crush families and small businesses operating in a difficult economic environment,” Abell said. “As a reminder, our state budget has more than doubled in the last 10 years. Washingtonians are rightly asking themselves if their roads, schools, health care, and public safety are all twice the quality. Unfortunately, the answer is clear.” Abell also pointed to last-minute tax legislation passed during the previous session, arguing it was rushed and poorly implemented. “This is absurd, and there should be egg on the face of every legislator who voted for ESSB (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill) 5814,” he said. “We need to do the hard work of getting our state spending under control, reducing the tax burden on Washington families and businesses, and improving the competitive environment so that businesses are able to succeed and thrive in Washington.” He added that, while he is cautious about the governor’s commitment to an all-cuts budget, he remains skeptical based on past actions. “I believe in the old adage of ‘trust but verify,’ and that is certainly true when it comes to Olympia, taxes, and the peoples’ money,” Abell said. Rep. Andrew Engell (R-Colville), also emphasized the need to refocus state priorities amid tightening finances. “One of my favorite quotes is on time management from Brian Tracy, ‘There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important thing.’” Engell said. “This also applies to budgeting. Washington’s people are already taxed to the breaking point and we need our government to get back to the basic functions of government and then there will be plenty of money.” Engell said he recently met with the governor to discuss the budget outlook and urged restraint when making cuts. “I suggested he look at cutting some of the new programs that were created and funded in this year’s budget rather than starting by cutting existing programs that have a proven track record,” Engell said. “I thanked him for his plan to oppose increasing taxes again since he already signed the largest tax increase in history this year.” 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

Ruby Ellen (Aebly) Bartelds | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. Ruby Ellen (Aebly) Bartelds 81 Jul 20, 1942 - Dec 23, 2023 Ruby Ellen (Aebly) Bartelds passed away peacefully Dec. 22, 2023 at home in Summit Valley, Addy, Wash. She was born June 20, 1942 in Chewelah, Wash., to Ray and Furla (Price) Aebly. Her siblings are Bill (Alice) Carefoot, Jim (Juanita) Carefoot, Suzie (Ralph) Pittman, and Ed (Jackie) Aebly. Ruby graduated from Chewelah High School May 1960, and married Ron Bartelds July 8, 1960, at Everson, Wash. She received her business degree in 1962 from Shaw Business School in Bellingham, Wash. She worked for the Lynden Tribune newspaper and later the Statesman-Examiner . Together, she and Ron dairy farmed and played in various bands. Ruby did extensive work in the genealogy department, putting together several books, traveling across the United States, visiting many relatives and many graveyards. Ron did the driving. She also traveled to Switzerland doing family history work there and visited distant relatives. She was an avid gardener, canner, and made lots of quilts for all of her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. She raised chickens, turkeys, and played piano, organ, and guitar. She played piano for senior citizens’ dances and later the Addy youth center. She loved her family with all her heart and is very much missed. She is survived by children Raymond Bartelds, Renee Olson, Rena Bartelds, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband Ron and grandsons, Dan and Jake Bartelds. A graveside service will be held Aug. 17 at 3 p.m. at Summit Valley Cemetery. Previous Item Next Item

Chewelah Wrestlers Finish Strong at M2 Mallet - 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 Chewelah Wrestlers Finish Strong at M2 Mallet December 24, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The Chewelah wrestling team dropped a home dual to Northwest Christian before turning in a strong performance at the M2 Mallet tournament on Dec. 20. In their duel against Northwest Christian, the Cougars fell 47-22 but got an impressive performance from Titan Tapia at 157 pounds, who earned a 15-4 major decision over Noah Stegman. Despite the dual setback, Chewelah rebounded at the M2 Mallet tournament in Spokane with multiple podium finishes against a deep field. Tapia turned in another impressive run to place second. He recorded two pins and a major decision on his way to the championship bout before falling to an undefeated opponent in the finals. Tapia scored 25 team points for Chewelah. Katzer followed with a strong third-place finish at 165 pounds. After a semifinal loss, Katzer battled back through the consolation bracket with two close decision wins to secure third place and add 18.5 team points. At 106 pounds, Taseyn Stauffer placed sixth after picking up a pin in the quarterfinals and fighting through the consolation rounds to score nine team points. 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

Local Lawmakers Meet with Canadian Neighbors - 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 Local Lawmakers Meet with Canadian Neighbors October 22, 2025 By: Staff Report From left to right: Brittny Anderson, Steve Morissette, Hunter Abell, and Andrew Engell. State representatives Hunter Abell, R-Inchelium, and Andrew Engell, R-Colville, from Washington's 7 th Legislative District, announced that they visited the U.S./Canadian border to strengthen ties with their neighbors in British Columbia. The two lawmakers met with Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) Brittny Anderson and Steve Morissette at the Frontier-Patterson border crossing. From there, the reps said they crossed into Canada for a day of discussion and shared learning that included stops at the Waneta Dam, the Teck smelter in Trail, and a roundtable meeting in Rossland. They returned to the United States through the Boundary-Wanetta crossing later that day. The reps stated that the visit was the first time Washington state legislators met directly with Canadian provincial lawmakers at the border for an event like this. "Our Canadian allies waded ashore with us on D-Day. They opened their airport at Gander to American citizens on 9/11. They are our friends and neighbors, and many issues of importance to people in the 7 th District don't stop at a line on a map," Abell said. "We share rivers, forests, and industries. What happens in British Columbia directly affects northeast Washington, and the other way around. By sitting down face to face, we know who to call on the other side of the border, and can find real, practical solutions to issues of shared concern." Abell said he hopes it's the first of many cross-border cooperation efforts. "I hope it's the start of an ongoing dialogue," he said. "Our communities have more in common than many realize – from rural economies to wildfire prevention to transportation issues. We're stronger when we tackle them side by side." Engell said the trip underscored how connected the two regions truly are. "Our watersheds, our timberlands, and our livelihoods are intertwined," Engell said. "Working with our neighbors helps us find better answers and build trust that benefits both countries." During their visit, the lawmakers said they also discussed opportunities to collaborate through the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER), a long-standing forum for cooperation between U.S. states and Canadian provinces. Both Abell and Engell said they plan to continue the dialogue and look for ways to keep the new partnership moving forward. 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

Inchelium Boys Roll Past Curlew, Open League Play With Road Win at Cusick - 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 Inchelium Boys Roll Past Curlew, Open League Play With Road Win at Cusick December 17, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The Inchelium boys basketball team delivered an emphatic start to Northeast 1B North play last week, improving to 4-2 overall and 3-0 in league action. Inchelium overwhelmed Curlew 66-30 on Saturday, Dec. 13, setting the tone early with a blistering 39-point first quarter that put the game out of reach almost immediately. The Hornets held Curlew to just seven points in the opening period and never looked back, maintaining control on both ends of the floor. The Hornets continued to extend the lead through the middle quarters, outscoring Curlew 11-10 in the second and 13-6 in the third before closing out the game in the fourth. Inchelium’s defense limited Curlew to single-digit scoring in three of four quarters, showcasing depth and intensity throughout the lineup. One night earlier, Inchelium opened league play with a 71-59 road victory over Cusick, using a balanced offensive attack and strong free-throw shooting to pull away late. Trailing 15-7 after the first quarter, the Hornets responded with a 19-point second quarter and continued to build momentum after halftime. Inchelium poured in 28 points in the fourth quarter, sealing the win at the free-throw line. Derek Perez led the way with 25 points, attacking the rim and converting 13 of 15 free throws. Gaige Stensgar added 18 points, while Gary Stensgar chipped in nine and Byron Abrahamson scored 11 points. The team faced Northport on Tuesday, Dec. 16; game results were not available at press time. The Hornets are scheduled to visit Republic on Friday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m., then host Selkirk on Saturday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. 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

Letting Kids Into the Jungle - 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 Letting Kids Into the Jungle July 9, 2025 By: Meredith Carroll Jungle Kids storefront. Photo provided by Penny Pittman. A new child care center is about to open its doors in Colville: Jungle Kids is owned and operated by Penny Pittman, who has been involved in the child and day care business for 30 years. “My husband Dave and I moved to Colville about a year ago from Selah, Wash., when we bought Tri County Stove and Spa,” said Pittman. “Where we live right now, it’s too far out to run a home day care.” Pittman spoke about how she will run the child care center. “I’ll utilize BrightWheel’s top-rated curriculum to provide educational structure,” said Pittman. “We will serve nutritious meals, consisting of three meals and two snacks, daily.” According to Pittman, Jungle Kids’ focus will be on delivering high quality care, ensuring a safe environment that fosters the Early Learning Core Competencies for future growth, while supporting emotional, physical, and motor skill development. “We are currently hiring, aiming to provide care for up to 40 children and employ six full time staff members, supplemented by part time staff. Volunteer assistance is welcome,” Pittman said. ” Pittman stated that the challenge will be finding qualified employees. “Employees will have to have a TB test, first aid/CPR certification, a health card, background check, and complete 30 hours of State Training and Registry System,” said Pittman. “Some of the aspects of training include raising a child, development, health/safety, early learning curriculum. We will pay for the training for those who do not have it, but it must be completed. “Jungle Kids originated as Lil’ Playmates Daycare in 1993 and underwent a name change approximately 20 years ago,” said Pittman. “I decided to adopt a more playful name. Jungle Kids Early Learning Childcare incorporates cute animals. My longtime friend and employee, Tracy Hancock, was the one who coined the name. I came up with the motto and the toucan as the mascot.” Since moving to Colville, Pittman expanded the cast of characters with the help of Wicked Designs, who also contributed to the day care center’s new design. Pittman fell in love with the building before she even moved to Colville, but at that time, it was Kelsi’s Closet. “One day, Dave and I were driving by, and we saw that Kelsi’s Closet was moving. We called and met the owner of the building and found out that it was available for lease.” Pittman said she signed the contract in February, 2025. “It took six months to bring the building to code, put in walls and a kitchen, add a bathroom, and install floors,” she said. “We just had the fire inspection, and all we need is to put in quick release handles and carbon monoxide detectors. As soon as we do that, we will pass inspection and be able to open our doors.” Pittman has designed the facility to have four classrooms. “We will have two staff members for every 10 children, and two staff members for every eight infants. It’s really hard in this rural area to find people with qualifications in child care without having to provide the training,” said Pittman. “Two women that I’ve hired are already fully qualified. “Our community really needs a child care center,” said Pittman. “With this venture, I’m stepping into new territory.” Pittman said that everyone is itching to start working. “I plan to be open by Aug. 1, at the latest, and I already have 21 kids enrolled.” Pittman’s five year plan is to open up a second Jungle Kids location in Selah. She travels between both places frequently, spending time with family and her fifteen grandchildren. “I’m really excited for Jungle Kids and the community. Colville will have child care that can be counted upon. “I want to give a huge thank you to the Bob Stevens and TEDD Program, Rural Resources, Northside, Wicked Designs, Simply Wired, and to family, friends and all staff at Tri-County and the Colville community for supporting me in my new journey,” said Pittman. After opening on Aug. 1, Jungle Kids will operate Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jungle Kids is located at 282 W. 1 st Avenue in Colville. For more information, call Pittman at 509-952-9001. 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

Janice Pernsteiner | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. Janice Pernsteiner 62 Sep 5, 1963 - Jul 21, 2025 Janice Pernsteiner passed away on July 21, 2025, in Spokane. She was born in Spokane on September 5, 1963, the daughter of George and Agnes Pernsteiner. The family moved to Colville in 1976, where Janice attended school and became active in the Special Olympics. After completing school in Colville, Janice moved back to Spokane under the care provided by Catholic Charities and later by Life Inc. Janice was preceded in death by her parents George and Agnes. She is survived by her siblings: George (Cheryl) of Portland, Ore., Becky (Mark) of Bisbee Ariz., Mike (Candy) of Evans, Bob (Cathy) of Clarkston, Wash., Mary (Lee) of Highgate Center, Vt., and Bill (Jana) of Sequim, Wash. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, Sept. 5,, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Kettle Falls, Wash. Mass will be held at 10 a.m. with internment to follow. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements. Previous Item Next Item

Clark Dixon Ashworth | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. Clark Dixon Ashworth 77 Dec 24, 1947 - Sep 22, 2025 Clark Dixon Ashworth passed away on Sept. 22, from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was born in Washington D.C. on Christmas Eve, 1947. He went home to live with two older sisters, Ann and Jill, and his parents Dick and Vivian Ashworth, in Falls Church, Va. After his sister, Gretchen, joined the family, they moved to Potomac, Md., where they later welcomed sister Brooke. At that time, Potomac was a small semi-rural community with lots of woods, streams and farms; an ideal place for a kid to grow up, and plenty of space to escape “the sisters.” Clark became a competitive swimmer at the local swim club and completed high school at Richard Montgomery in Rockville, Md. He then attended his father’s alma mater, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. There he spent time with his parents’ families who lived nearby and engaged in some extracurricular experiences which led to his next adventure, service in the U.S. Navy. Clark served as a helicopter air crewman antisubmarine warfare specialist on an aircraft carrier in the North Atlantic, with stops at Guantanamo Bay, and other areas along the east coast and Caribbean. After his discharge he served two years in the reserves during which he completed his bachelor’s degree at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. In 1972, he married his high school sweetheart, Kathryn Fantasia, and moved soon after to Seattle, Wash., to pursue a doctorate in psychology at the University of Washington. Following completion of his Ph.D., he joined the UW faculty where he taught in the Psychology department, provided statistical analysis for students in various doctoral programs, and was a member of the Department of Family Medicine. At a grants management workshop on campus he met his second wife, Elissa Dyson, and their desire to live in the country, and hIs work with the UW’s Rural Health Research Program, led them to Colville where they settled in Onion Creek, and Clark began his 40-year career as a licensed psychologist serving the Tri-County area. The things that gave Clark’s life meaning were many—topping the list was his work at NEW Family Counseling, and the clients and colleagues at the heart of that endeavor. Clark kept a full clinical schedule until March of this year; he always said “why should I re-tire, I’m not tired!” He saw his last client (virtually) a couple weeks before his death. Then there was Spring Hill, the home he fell in love with the first time he drove up that (long!) driveway. Although they weren’t yet married, he and Elissa dreamed of having a family, and the existence of Onion Creek School in the community sealed the deal. He was happy to welcome three children, Sarah, Kate, and Gregory, who would attend that school and participate in the construction, firewood and other projects that matched his motto “work is fun.” But then there were breaks for ski vacations, bike trips to blues festivals and the music he loved, and escapes to the sun and sands of warmer climes. Finally, there was skiing. Although an injury in 2016 ended his days on the slopes, he maintained his membership in the National Ski Patrol where he had served at 49° North one day a week for 30 seasons. The camaraderie and dedication of his fellow patrollers were a source of inspiration and enjoyment for him. He never stopped checking the snow reports daily for all the hills he’d skied. The last years of Clark’s life were challenging. Neuromuscular deterioration that affected all parts of his body meant his normally active life was over. Finally learning in May 2025 that he had ALS helped explain the seemingly unrelated series of symptoms he had experienced for some time. This is typical of this disease; and it is also notable that significantly more military veterans are diagnosed with ALS than the general public. As a result, the VA was very supportive, and, Always Caring Home Health Services, Hospice of Spokane, and many other individuals helped care for Clark and Spring Hill in the past few months. A special thank you to his companion dog, Stella, who gave him great joy in his final years. Clark was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Gretchen Brumback. He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Elissa Dyson, and children, Sarah Linn Ashworth of Olympia, Kate Merritt Ashworth (Dean Marriner) of Andover, England, and Gregory McClure Ashworth (Jordan) of Freeland, Wash., and four grandchildren, Olivia and Ellie Ashworth, and Charlie and Atticus Marriner. He is also survived by sisters Ann Croll of Durango, CO, Jill DeCesare of Princess Anne, Md., and Brooke Wisner of Hebron, N.H. A Celebration of Clark’s Life will be held at the Colville Center of the Community Colleges of Spokane on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 3-6 p.m.. Memorial contributions can be made to the ALS Association (PO Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022) or the 49°N Ski Patrol (49°N Ski Patrol, 1205 Pinebrook Drive, Chewelah, WA 99109). Previous Item Next Item

Colville Craftsmanship on Global Stage: Local Family Brings Custom Camaro to Arizona - 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 Craftsmanship on Global Stage: Local Family Brings Custom Camaro to Arizona December 24, 2025 By: Shannon Chapman A fully restored 1968 Chevrolet Camaro sits in the Country Chevrolet showroom in Colville, Wash., before being transported to Arizona. The vehicle, which underwent a total structural restoration, features a custom red paint job with charcoal racing stripes and a modernized billet grille. Photo by Aaron Pierson, General Manager, Country Chevrolet. Twelve years ago, Lisa and Jerry Adams pulled onto a farm in Idaho to inspect a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro that had served as a primary family vehicle for decades. It was weathered and worn, but for the Adams family, the $8,000 price tag represented far more than a vintage chassis – it was the beginning of an 11-year education for their son. At the time of the purchase, their son, Kalos, was only 3 years old. While most children his age were playing with die-cast miniatures, Kalos was beginning a childhood defined by the echoing clangs of a family garage. The couple said their goal was to ensure that, as Kalos grew, he would learn the “grueling, rewarding reality of manual labor and the patience required for a long-term commitment.” "We wanted to teach him the value of hard work and time," Lisa Adams said. "It was about showing him what it takes to build something from nothing, and having him see that process from the time he was a toddler until now." The Adams plan to complete their decade-plus lesson Jan. 17-25, 2026, at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction in Arizona. Known as "The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions," the event serves as a global stage for the industry. The Adams' custom masterpiece, designated as Lot No. 813, will cross the block in front of a live television audience and hundreds of thousands of in-person enthusiasts, according to event organizers. The Camaro is the result of 8,561 hours of personal labor, according to the Adams. The restoration was a multi-generational mission led by Jerry Adams, a 20-year retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief. Working in their home garage in Colville, Wash., the project became a cornerstone of family life, involving Jerry, Lisa, Kalos – who eventually learned to turn wrenches on the very car he grew up with – and Lisa’s father, Jim Langevin. "Veterans always need to stay busy," Jerry Adams said of the project’s intensity. "This wasn't just a hobby for us; it was a mission to preserve a piece of American history while building our own." According to Jerry Adams, the technical transformation of the vehicle was documented in a massive, 10-inch-thick binder that chronicles every receipt, photograph, and modification. The family performed a complete frame-off rotisserie restoration, which included replacing every body panel with new metal. The "rough-in" panel replacement was handled by Casey’s Autofab before the car returned to the family garage for the intricate assembly. While the family managed the mechanical engineering, they sought out a local specialist to provide the car’s world-class finish. The Adams said they entrusted the paint job and body work to Jon Entwistle, a long-time resident of Colville. Under Entwistle’s hand, the Camaro was coated in a striking PPG "Caught Red Handed" finish with gunmetal gray pearl accents. According to Adams, the deep, mirror-like surface serves as a visual testament to the generational skills passed down through the Entwistle family. The Camaro is powered by a 454ci V8 engine built by Blackfoot Racing and Gibson Performance Engines, featuring forged internals and port-polished 049 oval heads, Jerry Adams said. Thunder Racing Dyno tested the powerplant at an impressive 603 horsepower and 590 foot-pounds of torque, according to performance records. The engine is mated to a Silver Sport Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission and a narrowed Currie 9-inch rear end. Jerry Adams said inside, the car features a fully custom TMI leather and suede interior completed by local shop CNT Upholstery. Modern amenities were integrated as well, including a Vintage Air climate control system, Dakota Digital gauges, a leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel, and a premium Alpine sound system. To ensure the 603-horsepower machine handles as well as it looks, Jerry Adams said the family installed a full Ridetech coilover suspension and Wilwood six-piston disc brakes. According to the event’s websitebarrett-jackson.com/2026-scottsdale , the auction event kicks off Jan. 16, 2026, with a "Rock the Block" concert featuring country superstar Cole Swindell. According to the Adams family, the event also marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As they prepare to watch the gavel fall, the couple said they are already scouting for their next project: a vintage truck and a "sleeper" car that maintains a stock aesthetic while hiding high-performance secrets. "The car is beautiful, and we are proud of the technical achievement," Lisa Adams said. "But the 12 years of memories and the character our son built in that garage is what we are truly taking home with us." 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

Local Couple Restores Tree Farm and Donates it for Research - 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 Local Couple Restores Tree Farm and Donates it for Research January 13, 2026 By: Monica Carrillo-Casas Lynn and Becky Miner donated their 100-acre tree farm to Washington State University Extension Forestry after purchasing it in 1992. The Miners have planted 11,000 ponderosa pines and western larch trees. Lynn Miner said they also hung up over 700 nest boxes for birds and small animals. Photo courtesy Monica Carrillo-Casas/The Spokesman-Review . Lynn and Becky Miner bought 100 acres of land in 1992, with plans to build a log home and start a tree farm – despite not knowing anything about forestry. Just last month, they donated their 100-acre tree farm to Washington State University Extension Forestry. “As corny as it sounds, Becky and I both have the attitude that we have a responsibility to leave the world a better place than what we found it, and this was our way to do that,” Lynn Miner said. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Miners said they began working on what they call Casa Becca del Norté, or Becky’s House of the North, after realizing the land had been, according to the Miners, mismanaged. Over the next 30 years, the two said they planted more than 11,000 ponderosa pines and western larch trees. They also installed more than 700 nest boxes in an effort to bring life back to the forest. The Miners said, today, more than 80 species of birds and small animals call the tree farm home. “We took a really poorly managed forest and turned it into a work of art,” Lynn Miner said. Before their purchase, Lynn Miner said the land had been homesteaded in the 1880s and was shaped by generations of “poor logging practices,” which they said was evident once they began working on the forest. “They cut down all the really good trees and left all the bad ones, so there was bad genetics,” Lynn Miner said. “Trees have genetics just like animals do, and it was in really bad shape. We didn’t know that. We just thought it was pretty.” Becky Miner said she remembered the silence most of all. Birds were noticeably absent, and the only thing they would hear were coyotes. That’s when she reached out to Cornell University and learned how to make the nest boxes. “Now people come here, and it’s like a cacophony of birds,” Becky Miner said. The Miners said they subsequently reached out to multiple other agencies, including the Department of Resources, the National Resource Conservation Service and Stevens County Conservation District, to learn how to best grow their tree farm. Lynn Miner added they had mentorship from Bob Playfair, who was named the 2005 Washington state Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year. “He taught us a lot of things about how to grow trees, how to plant trees, how to select trees for making things more healthy, and how to improve wildlife,” Lynn Miner said. During the busiest months, especially in the spring, the Miners devoted as many as 80 hours a week to the tree farm. On average, Lynn Miner said they spent at least 20 hours a week over 30 years reshaping the forest, all on top of their full-time jobs. “In the spring it was really intense, because that’s when we planted the trees, and then towards the fall, when we were pruning and thinning,” Becky Miner said. But after 25 years of hands-on work, the question became, what would happen to the forest? Lynn Miner said selling it was never an option. And with one child living in a group home in Spokane and another living out of state with no interest in managing a tree farm, the Miners began exploring philanthropic options. That’s when they decided to donate it to an organization that would preserve it as a working forest. “That’s how we came up with WSU,” Lynn Miner said. Andy Perleberg, WSU’s state extension forester, said he has known and worked alongside the Miners since 2005. When he learned the tree farm would be donated, Perleberg said he knew it would be crucial for future forest health improvement research. “This is really a special gift,” Perleberg said. He said small-scale forest owners face challenges in managing their land due to operational capacity, access and engineering considerations, which make it hard for owners to maintain a healthy forest ecosystem. “So, what my vision is, is that this forest land can be used to help develop these solutions, these operational opportunities and create a workforce that can do the work in order to help the multitudes of people who own forest land in eastern Washington,” Perleberg said. With wildfire hazards and forest health as the top concerns in northeast Washington, according to Perleberg, he said he hopes the tree farm will give students and visitors hands-on demonstrations in forest management, such as thinning, pruning and proper debris disposal to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. Learning about tree spacing and density, he added, can also prevent overstocked stands that stress water resources and make trees more susceptible to bark beetles. Root diseases, common in eastern Washington, are another inevitable concern, making proper management even more important, he said. However, Perleberg emphasized the land isn’t exclusive and is meant to benefit the wider community. “If anybody wants to use the property, they can just reach out and we’ll figure out how we can serve their needs,” he said. Lynn Miner said the university already has had students use the tree farm for entomology studies, forestry health research and outdoor recreation projects. WSU’s Law Enforcement Division is also looking to use it to teach winter survival skills. “It’s going to be utilized, and that’s what we want,” Lynn Miner 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

Preliminary Election Results Released for Stevens and Ferry Counties - 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 Preliminary Election Results Released for Stevens and Ferry Counties November 12, 2025 By: Emma Lee Conyer The preliminary election results for Ferry County and Stevens County. General election results for Stevens and Ferry counties are still being counted, however, current tabulations provide an indication of the winning parties. According to election department officials, the election results for both of the counties will be certified on Nov. 25. STEVENS COUNTY Chewelah The candidates for Chewelah mayor are Lindsay Baxter and Tracy Ling. Election officials stated that Baxter is in the lead as of Monday, Nov. 10, with 328 (67.35%) of the 487 counted votes, followed by Ling with 138 votes (28.34%). Twenty-one votes (4.31%) were written in. The candidates for Chewelah City Council, Position 1, are Katie Roberts and Shane Fairweather. Roberts leads with 299 (65%) of the 460 counted votes, with Fairweather trailing with 75 (16.3%) of the votes, according to officials. Eighty-six votes (18.7%) were written-in. The candidates for Chewelah City Council, Position 2, are James B. Caruso and Sharon Ludwig. Election officials said Caruso is trailing with 216 (43.55%) of the 496 votes, while Ludwig sits at 278 (56.05%) votes; two (0.4%) votes were write-ins. Jon Hardy-McCauliff and Ronald L. McCoy are the candidates for Chewelah City Council, Position 3. Out of 485 votes, Hardy-McCauliff currently holds 293 (60.41%), with McCoy behind at 190 (39.18%), according to election officials. The remaining two votes (0.41%) are write-ins. Lonnie Hoxie and Tim Dollar are the Chewelah City Council, Position 6 candidates. Officials stated that Hoxie held 354 (72.69%) votes, while Dollar had 131 (26.9%) of the 487 total votes. Two of the votes (0.41%) were write-ins. Candice Capoeman and Paula Randall are the candidates for Chewelah City Council at Large. Officials indicated that Randall was in the lead with 334 (77.67%) votes out of 430 total, with Capoeman behind at 91 (21.16%) votes. Five of the votes (1.16%) are write-ins. Colville The candidates for Colville City Council at Large are Muriel S. Meyer and Thomas Carpenter. Meyer was ahead, according to officials, with 640 (66.05%) of 969 votes, and Carpenter with 321 (33.13%) votes. Eight of the total votes (0.83%) were write-ins. Marcus Chris Fox and Ethan Jennings are the candidates for Marcus mayor. Jennings was behind, with 21 (33.33%) of the 63 total votes, and Fox held 42 (66.67%). Northport The candidates for the mayor of Northport are Karene Balcom and Phillip Naylor. Balcom held 62 (82.67%) of the 75 total votes, while Naylor had 13 (17.33%) votes, according to officials. Northport School District The candidates for the Northport School District Director at Large 5 at Lisa (Fry) Warner and Chad R. Arcand. Officials noted there were three (0.8%) write-in votes, 153 (40.43%) votes for Warner, and 221 (58.78%) votes for Arcand out of a total of 376 votes. Mary Walker School District Jedd Canfield and Thad Stenlund are the candidates for the Mary Walker School District Director District 1. Canfield held the lead with 411 (73.39%) votes, while Stenlund had 144 (25.71%) of the 560 total votes, according to officials. Out of those votes, five (0.89%) were written-in. Onion Creek School District The candidates for Onion School District Director Position 1 are Deryk Lamb, who sat at 33 (37.08%) votes, and Lennifer Leone Miller, who held 54 (60.67%) votes, officials stated. Out of the 89 total votes, two (2.25%) were write-ins. Stevens County Fire Protection District 4, Proposition 1: Levy Citizens of Stevens County were called to vote on a Fire District Levy this year. Officials indicated that the levy will pass, with 422 (55.02%) of the 767 votes being “Levy Yes,” and 345 (44.98%) being “Levy No.” Fire District 12 Sharyl McBride and Duggan Harman are the candidates for Fire District 12 Commissioner 1. Out of 242 total votes, McBride led with 188 (77.69%) votes, and Harman sat at 53 (21.49%) votes, officials said. Two votes (0.83%) were written-in. FERRY COUNTY Fire District 3 The Fire District 3 Commissioner 3 candidates are Al Kowitz and Jake Cook. Officials said out of 259 total votes, Kowitz sat at 147 (56.76%) votes, and Cook held 112 (43.24%). 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

Chewelah and Kettle Falls Wrestlers Cook at Apple Pie Invite - 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 Chewelah and Kettle Falls Wrestlers Cook at Apple Pie Invite January 21, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen Local wrestlers turned in strong performances at the Apple Pie Invite on Saturday, Jan. 17, highlighted by podium finishes from Chewelah’s Dakota Katzer and Titan Tapia, as well as a deep showing across multiple weights by the Kettle Falls Bulldogs. Katzer advanced to the championship bout at 157 pounds and finished second overall. He opened with a bye before pinning Yandel Mata of Chelan in 1:32, then followed with another fall over Andrew Alcala of Chelan in the semifinals. In the title match, Katzer ran into Tristan Sharpe of Cascade (Leavenworth), falling by decision to cap a strong tournament run and score 22 team points. Teammate Tapia also reached the podium at 157 pounds, placing third. Tapia pinned Ryder Vassar of Tonasket in the quarterfinals, dropped a semifinal to Sharpe, then rebounded with a technical fall over Mason Simons of Republic-Curlew in the consolation semifinals. Tapia closed the day with a 10-5 victory over Alcala to secure third place. Kettle Falls had multiple wrestlers place, led by a pair of strong finishes at 150 pounds. Ezekiel Evans placed second after earning a fall in the quarterfinals and a technical fall in the semifinals before falling to Logan Stucker of Tonasket in the title match. Baylor Rosen added a third-place finish at the same weight, stringing together four consecutive falls through the consolation bracket and closing with another pin over Nik Morrow of Blaine to score 22 team points. At 132 pounds, Joseph Young placed third, winning four of five matches, all but one by fall. Young pinned his way through the early rounds, rebounded from a semifinal loss, and closed with a pin over Aengus Gillikin of Cascade. In the upper weights, Hunter Smith-Rowe placed third at 215 pounds, responding to an early loss with four straight wins by fall, including the third-place match against teammate Harley Rowe. Rowe finished fourth after advancing through the consolation rounds. Kettle Falls also saw solid efforts from Michael Winn (fourth at 120 pounds) and Gideon Evans (fourth at 126 pounds), each rallying through the consolation bracket with multiple falls to reach the placement rounds. 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