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Trusted local news, events, classifieds, and public notices serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. Breaking News Add a Title Author Date Detail of the Breaking News Read More Confirmed Measles Case Reported in Stevens County; No Public Exposure Identified As of Feb. 2, Washington State has confirmed eight cases of the measles. NE Tri County Health District graphic. Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Health officials have confirmed a case of measles in a Stevens County resident, according to the Northeast Tri County Health District. Read More Latest Stories Constructive Fun Toys Moves in with Nana’s Kiln Time Business McMillan Uplifts Chewelah Boys Basketball; Girls Team Drops Two Games Sports Kettle Falls Basketball Edged by St. George’s Sports Out of the Past: 02/04/2026 Out of the Past 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 Ads Business Constructive Fun Toys Moves in with Nana’s Kiln Time Samantha Peone February 4, 2026 Owner Valorie Anderson said the business will be open, possibly through the first week or two of February, at its current location, 163 S. Main Street in Colville, and then close for a bit to focus on downsizing. It’ll reopen in March in its new spot. Read More Statesman-Examiner Launches New Website Staff Report January 14, 2026 Since acquiring the Statesman-Examiner, The Sun and the Deer Park Tribune less than two years ago, the focus has been on strengthening the print editions, where most readers prefer to access the newspapers, said owner and publisher Gabriel Cruden. Read More The Woodland Theatre Receives Support for Upcoming Projects Tamara Lee Titus December 3, 2025 The Woodland Theatre, built in Kettle Falls in 1940, is the main performance site for Woodland Productions, a nonprofit community of local performing artists. Thanks to donations from grants, Friends of Woodland Theatre, and other major donors, the theatre now has the funds needed to complete upgrades. Read More New Mobile Pottery Business Arrives in Town Meredith Carroll November 19, 2025 Glaze It Up Pottery is the new Colville-based pottery painting business that brings ceramics to their customers. “I pull up, I set up, and I bring the pottery, the glaze (paint), the paint brushes, and the paint pallets,” said Glaze It Up Pottery owner Heather Fryer. “I even bring the garbage bags to haul away the trash. Read More Government Chewelah City Council Hears Public Concerns, Approves Banking Change and Fire Grant Application Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 During public comment, a resident urged council members to delay any future ordinances related to pet ownership until additional data on rabies risk and dog bites can be reviewed. Read More New Superior Court Judge Sworn In Tamara Lee Titus January 28, 2026 Stevens, Pend Oreille, and Ferry County’s newly-appointed Superior Court Judge Thomas Webster was sworn into office on Friday, Jan. 23. “I’m honored,” Webster said, adding that the application process was long and comprehensive. Read More Stevens County Justice Center Development Delayed Bruce Rushton January 21, 2026 Stevens County commissioners said they are scaling back plans for a new jail and courtroom facility two years after voters approved taxes to pay for a justice center adjacent to the existing courthouse. “(W)e can’t build the building that we want,” Commission Chairman Greg Young said at a board meeting called to discuss the project on Jan. 15. “Like I said, it’s too darn expensive.” Read More Rep. Engell Proposes Bill to Expand Options for Radiologic Technologists Brandon Hansen January 14, 2026 House Bill (HB) 2113, prefiled for the 2026 legislative session, proposed changes to state regulations governing radiologic technologists by allowing additional flexibility in physician supervision while maintaining patient safety requirements. Read More Local News Jan. 28 - Traffic Report Staff Report January 28, 2026 Jan. 28 Traffic Report Read More Jan. 22 Structure Fire in Colville, Wash. Staff Report January 22, 2026 A structure fire has been confirmed at 1025 E. Ivy in Colville; please avoid the surrounding area while emergency services respond. Read More Local Library Encourages Creativity Through Art Meredith Carroll January 21, 2026 “Every child is an artist.” It is Donna Matter’s heartfelt belief that all children contain untapped creativity and that it is her purpose to provide them with an outlet. The Kettle Falls Children’s Art Program, located at the Kettle Falls Library, was launched 10 years ago by Donna Matter and her husband, George Matter. Read More Gas Price Drops Lagging in Washington Brandon Hansen January 14, 2026 AAA officials stated that Washington state has the third-highest gasoline prices in the nation behind Hawaii, which is at $4.41, and California, which averages $4.27 per gallon. Read More Got something to sell? Looking to reach your neighbors? Whether it’s a car, a rental, or a weekend garage sale—we’ve got the space. Place a Classified Ad and get seen by the entire community. Place your Ad Advertise with us! Place your Ad Upcoming Events Have an upcoming event in Colville, Stevens County, or the surrounding region? Submit your details here, and we’ll feature your event in the Statesman-Examiner ’s online calendar. Submit your Event Friends of Loon Lake Library Booksale Feb. 6 & 7, 2026 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3922 Pine St, Loon Lake, WA 99148, USA Chewelah Chamber of Commerce Meeting Mistequa Casino Feb. 6, 2026 7-8 a.m. 2555 Smith Rd, Chewelah, WA 99109, USA Call: 509-935-8595 Public Library Improvement Club Booksale Colville Library Feb. 7, 2026 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 195 S Oak St, Colville, WA 99114, USA Valentine's Dinner Summit Valley Community Church Feb. 7, 2026 5 p.m. 2371 Summit Valley Rd, Addy, WA 99101, USA 2026 Arden Old Timers Queen Coronation Feb. 7, 2026 4 p.m. 636 Hall Rd, Colville, WA 99114, USA Chewelah Winterfest Main St. Chewelah Feb. 7, 2026 12-8 p.m. Chewelah, WA 99109, USA Super Sunday Watch Party Mistequa Casino Hotel Feb. 8, 2026 3 p.m. 2555 Smith Rd, Chewelah, WA 99109, USA Blues Jam Fired Up Pizza Feb. 8, 2026 4-7 p.m. 206 E Main Ave, Chewelah, WA 99109, USA Call: 509-936-9121 Read More Letters to the Editor Letters to the Editor February 4, 2026 Walter Stichart Colville To the Editor: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Since 1941, I've made that pledge, before and after the amendment, over 2,000times. It always ended the same way. "with liberty and justice for all." Anyone who has recited the pledge even once should learn that the full meaning of being American is to be "one without prejudice" – one who even pledges "liberty and justice for all." And who pledges – with even greater force – as a citizen of a "Nation under God." Unfortunately, some citizens no longer take the pledge seriously, and even some of the leadership of our country, having taken the pledge, violate it. This is the time for someone in Congress to take a stand. Fortunately, there is an increasing number of citizens with signs and banners, whose presence protest injustice, crying loudly "liberty and justice for all." Someone once said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." Read More Letters to the Editor Announcements Births Miles Lee Flanigan Miles Lee Flanigan was born on Jan. 21, 2026, to parents Alicia and Phillip Flanigan of Valley, Wash. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces at birth, and has two brothers: Oliver, age 6, and Henry, age 4. His maternal grandparents are Rob and Pam Murrow of Wahiawa, Hawaii. His paternal grandparents are Dan and Karen Flanigan of Deer Park, Wash. Read More Births Lina Jazmin Vega Lina Jazmin Vega was born on Jan. 10, 2026, to parents Madeline and Luis Vega Benitez of Colville, Wash. She weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces at birth, and has one sister, Arabella Vega, age 3. Her maternal grandparents are Jeff and Michelle Michaelson of Wallace, Idaho. Her paternal grandparents are Luis Vega and Petrona Benitez of Paraguay. Her maternal great-grandparents are Leon and Jennilynn Benson of Colville, Wash. Read More Births Jace Alexzander Kade Ruiz Jace Alexzander Kade Ruiz was born on Jan. 9, 2026, to parents Jennifer Buffan and Jose Ruiz-Stroder of Colville, Wash. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce at birth, and has two brothers, Okecr, age 3, and Damon, age 3, and one sister, Phoebe, age 11. His maternal grandparents are Pamela and Daniel Miller of Colville, Wash. His paternal grandparents are Mary Ruiz-Rodriguez and Chris Barns of Valley, Wash. Read More More Announcements Got something to say to our Editor? We want to hear from you! Whether it’s praise, protest, or personal insight – your voice matters. Send a Letter to the Editor and join the conversation!. Submit a Letter Classifieds 110 - Community Notes Get your fire started with our free recycled papers. Stop by the Statesman-Examiner office at 220 S. Main St. in Colville for pick up, or call 509-684-4567 for more information. Feb 4, 2026 120 - Notices THE DEADLINE FOR A CLASSIFIED AD IS THURSDAY AT 4:00 PM! --------- LINE AD RATES ARE: $10.00/week for 20 words or less + $0.30 a word over 20. email classified@statesmanexaminer.com or call 509-684-4567 Feb 4, 2026 120 - Notices All classified ads will be entered onto our new website, www.statesman-examiner.com free of charge! ---------------------------------- Call 509-684-4567 or email classified@statesmanexaminer.com to take advantage of this offer. Feb 4, 2026 150 - Services Automotive mobile mechanic, Ranger Mobile Garage. All makes/models, affordable maintenance & repair. Serving Colville & Stevens County. Call: 509-690-3721. Feb 4, 2026 150 - Services HUNTER'S HOME IMPROVEMENT. General Contractor #HUNTEHI912JZ. Kitchen, bathroom remodels, flooring, doors, windows, plumbing services, maintenance repairs. Free Estimates. Brett Hunter 509-675-2601. Feb 4, 2026 170 - Business Opportunities Opportunity - Contract for sale that has a 6% return, has been seasoned for almost 2 years, will sell at par balance, approximately $59,312 with approximately 8 years left. Call 509-722-3321 in the evenings, or 509-563-9254 anytime. Feb 4, 2026 200 - Residential Rental CHEWELAH, 2BEDROOM APARTMENT - WOOD LAMINATE FLOORING THROUGHOUT - PET-FRIENDLY - LAUNDRY ON-SITE - UPSTAIRS UNIT, VIEWS - $987/MONTH - TEXT: 323-543-3000. Feb 4, 2026 200 - Residential Rental Republic area 2 bd., den, 1 bath, daylight basement apartment. Electric/heat. DISH TV, water, and trash included. carport and lg outside covered area. Pets considered. $1200/month, $1200 deposit. Call 360-941-0384. Feb 4, 2026 Read More Subscribe to the Statesman-Examiner Today! Subscribe Obituaries Rose Marie Gotham Sep 18, 1937 - January 21, 2026 Rose Marie Gotham, a lifelong resident of the Colville area, was born on September 18, 1937, in Chewelah, WA, to Charles Lundquist and Laura (Naff) Lundquist. Rose passed away on January 21, 2026. Read More Donna Pauline Sampson 88 Nov 15, 1937 - January 20, 2026 Donna Pauline Sampson, age 88, a lifetime resident of Cedonia, Wash., passed away on Jan. 20, 2026, in Colville, Wash. Donna was born at home on Nov. 15, 1937, in Cedonia, Wash. She was the daughter of Robert Loren and Mildred Pauline (Timken) Dashiell. Read More Ayne Archie Bolt 81 Oct 1, 1944 - January 14, 2026 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ayne Archie Bolt, who passed away on January 14, 2026, at the age of 81 after his battle with lung cancer. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Read More View More

Browse local classifieds for jobs, rentals, services, and items for sale in Stevens County, 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 Selling local is easier when your ad starts here. Submit a Classified Ad Classified Ads 110 - Community Notes Get your fire started with our free recycled papers. Stop by the Statesman-Examiner office at 220 S. Main St. in Colville for pick up, or call 509-684-4567 for more information. Feb 4, 2026 120 - Notices THE DEADLINE FOR A CLASSIFIED AD IS THURSDAY AT 4:00 PM! --------- LINE AD RATES ARE: $10.00/week for 20 words or less + $0.30 a word over 20. email classified@statesmanexaminer.com or call 509-684-4567 Feb 4, 2026 120 - Notices All classified ads will be entered onto our new website, www.statesman-examiner.com free of charge! ---------------------------------- Call 509-684-4567 or email classified@statesmanexaminer.com to take advantage of this offer. Feb 4, 2026 150 - Services Automotive mobile mechanic, Ranger Mobile Garage. All makes/models, affordable maintenance & repair. Serving Colville & Stevens County. Call: 509-690-3721. Feb 4, 2026 150 - Services HUNTER'S HOME IMPROVEMENT. General Contractor #HUNTEHI912JZ. Kitchen, bathroom remodels, flooring, doors, windows, plumbing services, maintenance repairs. Free Estimates. Brett Hunter 509-675-2601. Feb 4, 2026 170 - Business Opportunities Opportunity - Contract for sale that has a 6% return, has been seasoned for almost 2 years, will sell at par balance, approximately $59,312 with approximately 8 years left. Call 509-722-3321 in the evenings, or 509-563-9254 anytime. Feb 4, 2026 200 - Residential Rental CHEWELAH, 2BEDROOM APARTMENT - WOOD LAMINATE FLOORING THROUGHOUT - PET-FRIENDLY - LAUNDRY ON-SITE - UPSTAIRS UNIT, VIEWS - $987/MONTH - TEXT: 323-543-3000. Feb 4, 2026 200 - Residential Rental Republic area 2 bd., den, 1 bath, daylight basement apartment. Electric/heat. DISH TV, water, and trash included. carport and lg outside covered area. Pets considered. $1200/month, $1200 deposit. Call 360-941-0384. Feb 4, 2026 210 - Yard Sales & Auctions Shop-Vintage- Estate Items: Job Box tool trunk; miscellaneous windows and doors; welders; 4 wheel dollies; shop shelves; Delta full size truck aluminum tool box; 17 foot aluminum canoe; steel car ramps; tool boxes; 1.6 GPF toilet; 9300 BTU kerosene hey heater; small roll top desk; recliners; over 1200 DVD movies just arrived; farm table w/4 chairs; hardwood dressers and chests; vintage buffets, accent tables, chairs, beds, small drop side tables, rustic/farmhouse decor; stop by and visit our "store full of ideas" today! Red Barn Second Hand, 490 west 2nd Ave, Colville, 9:00-5:30 Monday-Saturday, 509-684-8995. Feb 4, 2026 222 - Wanted Worker wanted for residential remodel project. Experience necessary. Call 509-936-9112. No text. Feb 4, 2026 222 - Wanted Old Cigarette Lighters - will pay fair price. Text or call Larry: 206-941-8651. Email: ledrawdy@aol.com . Feb 4, 2026 223 - Appliances CUDDLEMEWARM RECONDITIONED APPLIANCES and Mink Blankets. 1-year warranty. We pick up used appliances free. 1024 East 10th Avenue, Colville, 509-680-1926. Feb 4, 2026 270 - Pets Adorable Chihuahua puppies, one male, one female, available in February. Black with brown and white accents. $400. Call: 509-936-1201. Feb 4, 2026 Reach thousands of local readers — sell what you’ve got. Submit a Classified Ad 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

Submit a letter to the editor and share your perspective on local issues affecting Stevens County. Submit a Letter to the Editor Share your thoughts with our readers. Letters to the Editor Policy We care about your opinions, and we publish a selection of letters to the editor in the Statesman-Examiner . Letters for publication should be the writer’s own thoughts about topics and issues that pertain to northeast Washington. Please avoid personal attacks, consumer complaints, and make-believe realities. A wide range of thoughts and viewpoints is welcomed and encouraged. Letters that do not meet the following guidelines will not be published: Letters should be no more than 250 words. Letters must include the writer’s name, hometown, and telephone number (only the writer’s name and town name will be published). Letters will only be accepted from writers within our coverage area of Stevens County and eastern Ferry County. Writers previously from our area that maintain local ties to the community, or visitors writing on a topic related to their visit to our area, will also be considered. Letters can be submitted via email, postal mail, or our website form. Do not send a letter as an attachment. Instead, include it in the body of the email. One letter per month per writer will be considered. Additional Notes: Letters may be edited for clarity and trimmed to fit the 250-word count. However, the writer’s opinion will not be changed. The Statesman-Examiner publishes all letters received that meet the criteria above. Published letters are never an endorsement by the Statesman-Examiner of the idea(s) expressed. Letter submissions can be sent to: editor@statesmanexaminer.com, or Statesman-Examiner, 220 S. Main St., Colville, WA 99114. Please include a phone number in case of questions. Phone numbers will not be published. Submit a Letter to the Editor Contact Information First name Last name Address Email Phone Submit your Letter to the Editor Special instructions Current Word Count: 0 / 250 Letters are limited to 250 words. Please keep your submission focused and respectful. I agree to the Statesman-Examiner's terms and conditions I understand that Letters to the Editor are published publicly, and I grant the Statesman-Examiner the right to publish my letter along with my name and city. I also acknowledge that my submission may be edited for clarity, length, style, or accuracy. Submit Event Your content has been submitted An error occurred. Try again later

Arts, entertainment, and culture news featuring local events, performances, and creative voices in Stevens County. 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 Arts & Entertainment Arts & Entertainment Made Here; Three-Dimensional Artist Sonja Metzler January 28, 2026 Wayne Gorst Sonja Metzler wasn’t always a sculptor, but she’s always been an artist. A Colville area resident since 1998, Metzler said her artistic journey began with art school in her childhood home of Johannesburg, South Africa. Read More Arts & Entertainment Local Artist Produces First Album January 21, 2026 Meredith Carroll Chewelah resident Rob McGlinton describes his music as a fusion of classic jazz with a pop twist. He said the muted trumpet, subtle bass, and the smooth swing of the piano wrap around lyrics written from “an often unreliable” narrator’s commentary on the human condition. Read More Arts & Entertainment Newly Completed Chewelah Mural Combines Local and World History November 5, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “It tells the story in time,” American Legion member Dennis MacDonald said when discussing the final painting day of the mural on the west wall of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 54 in Chewelah. This wall faces Highway 395 and is located at 111 S. Park Street near Main Street. MacDonald added that the mural is designed to honor veterans. Read More Arts & Entertainment Stevens County Historical Society Unveils New Mural by Jami Rose Lord August 13, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer The Stevens County Historical Society unveiled their new mural, painted by Northport artist Jami Rose Lord, at the Stevens County Historical Society museum, 700 N. Wynn St. in Colville, during a celebration on Aug. 9, which included free admission and refreshments for the over 100 attendees. Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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 news covering Colville and Stevens County, including community updates, schools, public safety, and local issues. 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 News Local News Confirmed Measles Case Reported in Stevens County; No Public Exposure Identified February 4, 2026 Brandon Hansen Health officials have confirmed a case of measles in a Stevens County resident, according to the Northeast Tri County Health District. Read More Local News Jan. 28 - Traffic Report January 28, 2026 Staff Report Jan. 28 Traffic Report Read More Local News Jan. 22 Structure Fire in Colville, Wash. January 22, 2026 Staff Report A structure fire has been confirmed at 1025 E. Ivy in Colville; please avoid the surrounding area while emergency services respond. Read More Local News Local Library Encourages Creativity Through Art January 21, 2026 Meredith Carroll “Every child is an artist.” It is Donna Matter’s heartfelt belief that all children contain untapped creativity and that it is her purpose to provide them with an outlet. The Kettle Falls Children’s Art Program, located at the Kettle Falls Library, was launched 10 years ago by Donna Matter and her husband, George Matter. Read More Local News Gas Price Drops Lagging in Washington January 14, 2026 Brandon Hansen AAA officials stated that Washington state has the third-highest gasoline prices in the nation behind Hawaii, which is at $4.41, and California, which averages $4.27 per gallon. Read More Local News A Look at the Local Medical Industry January 14, 2026 Meredith Carroll Over the past two years, the Statesman-Examiner has followed local industries as they face the challenges of their trades. This week’s edition checks in with the local medical industry, reporting on medical care, support services, and recent changes in state and national mandates that may impact patients in northeast Washington. Read More Local News Chewelah Labyrinth Gives Christmas Trees a Second Chance at Spreading Joy January 7, 2026 Brandon Hansen The Christmas Tree Labyrinth at the Chewelah Center for the Arts wrapped up its second season this past weekend, closing after several days of post-holiday operation that stretched into early 2026. Built from more than 200 reclaimed Christmas trees, the installation invited community members to slow down and experience a moment of calm after the holidays. Read More Local News Local Plans for the Country’s 250th Anniversary in the (Fire) Works December 31, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “I was approached by lifelong friend Dick Nichols, who asked me to put on a fireworks show for the 250th celebration of the signing of the [Declaration of] Independence. I am not sure why he asked me, maybe because he knew I would not turn him down,” Matlock said. Read More Local News Local School Raffles Off Large Stocking December 31, 2025 Staff Report Orient School hosted their annual community stocking raffle fundraiser, raising $1,210.50 to benefit Orient School’s eighth-grade Sneak and Graduation Ceremony. The winner was resident Chuck Omit, whose name was pulled during Orient School’s winter program, held on Dec. 19 at the Kettle River Grange. Read More Local News Selecky Posthumously Honored by Health District December 31, 2025 Brandon Hansen Northeast Tri County Health District announced they recently honored the legacy of longtime public health leader Mary Selecky, whose career spanned decades of service to northeast Washington and the state. Read More Local News Santa’s Personal Pilot and Elf Bring Holiday Cheer to Colville Airport December 24, 2025 Reeva Mertens-Martin The 15th annual Santa Fly-In returned to Colville Municipal Airport on Dec. 20, drawing more than 100 community members to the airport for a holiday morning featuring Santa’s arrival by plane, hot cocoa, and gifts for children. Read More Local News Colville Craftsmanship on Global Stage: Local Family Brings Custom Camaro to Arizona December 24, 2025 Shannon Chapman 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. Read More Local News Colville Pilot’s Plane Lost in 2019 Crash Located in Sullivan Lake December 17, 2025 Brandon Hansen A years-long mystery surrounding a fatal 2019 plane crash involving Colville resident Terry Coleman has taken a step toward resolution after a team of volunteers located the missing aircraft in Sullivan Lake last month. Read More Local News Stevens County Sheriff's Office Investigation Leads to Arrest in Child Overdose Case December 10, 2025 Brandon Hansen A Stevens County drug investigation led to the arrest of a woman accused of exposing her young child to fentanyl earlier this year. According to the U.S. Marshals Service, detectives with the Spokane Valley Police Department and members of the U.S. Marshals Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force took Briana Smutz into custody on Dec. 3, without incident. Read More Local News Heroes Homestead Recognizes Loon Lake Resident with Community Leadership Award December 3, 2025 Staff Report In a ceremony aimed at celebrating “extraordinary service” and “selfless dedication,” Heroes Homestead, together with Lithia Auto Group and Camp Chevrolet, bestowed the Community Leadership Award upon Loon Lake resident Sharon Russell on Nov. 16. According to organizers, the award recognizes individuals whose actions... Read More Local News Colville High School Knowledge Bowl Team Begins New Season November 26, 2025 Makenna Springman-Garland The Colville High School Knowledge Bowl team is busy competing once again for another ambitious year. After achieving a third-place finish at the state championships last March, the coaches are adamant about pushing the team to their full potential this season. Read More Local News State Audit Finds Voter Registration Backlog in Ferry and Stevens Counties November 19, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer The Office of the Secretary of State (OSOS) announced on Nov. 3 that automatic voter registrations (AVR) failed to process in Ferry and Stevens counties, beginning July 16. According to state officials, AVR applications are generated automatically when someone applying for state services presents proof of citizenship, but each one must still be reviewed by the county election administrator. Read More Local News Chewelah's First Quartzite Mini-Con Draws Hundreds, Blending Creativity, Community and Rural Fandom Culture November 19, 2025 Brandon Hansen Chewelah’s most successful events, as the first-ever Quartzite Mini-Con packed the Mistequa Casino Hotel on Saturday with cosplay, gaming tables, local authors, families, and fans from across the region. Attendance swelled to an estimated 500 people over the course of the day, an overwhelming response... Read More Local News Community Comes Together in Time of Need November 12, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “This community is very generous, very generous,” said Tiane Shoemaker, executive director of the Colville Volunteer Food & Resource Center. “They are seeing a need, and they don’t want their fellow community members going hungry,”. Six volunteers filled boxes for their outdoor market, assisted families, and organized stock as clients lined up outside, while Shoemaker led a tour of the facility. Read More Local News Murderer Re-Sentences After 2021 Supreme Court Ruling November 5, 2025 Staff Report Pehl grew up in Colville until the age of nine and attended Colville High School for a year before finishing his education in Spokane, according to the obituary provided to the Associated Press. Read More Local News Quartzite Mini-Con Brings Pop Culture to Chewelah November 5, 2025 Brandon Hansen The convention, organized by Nancy and Steven Cross, is a first-of-its-kind event for Stevens County. “It was Steven being insane honestly – no one else is crazy enough to try this,” Nancy joked. “It’s just the crazy Cross family working on it right now.” The Quartzite Mini-Con isn’t about corporate booths or big-name celebrities. It’s about community. Read More Local News Hunters Royalty Crowned October 22, 2025 Staff Report The Hunters Community Fair officially crowned its 2026 Royal Court on Oct.11, celebrating tradition, leadership, and the future of its youth. The three young women crowned were: Queen Hailey Leaden, Princess Miki Hellie, and Princess Tommie Guatney. Read More Local News Colville Warming Center Prepares for Winter's Chill October 8, 2025 Meredith Carroll When the temperatures plummet and some people need a place to get out of the weather, the Warming Center opens its doors. A refuge for those in need, the Warming Center has been operating in Colville for 15 years. The center, located in the American Legion Hall at 103 6th Ave. in Colville, is scheduled to open on Nov. 1. Read More Local News Colville Interact Club Champions Peacebuilding with New Peace Pole Installation September 17, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer Peacebuilding was chosen as the club’s 2024-2025 theme, “inspired by Rotary International’s focus areas; to support this, they learned peace literacy skills and decided to install a peace pole at their high school,” said Amy Cobos, an Interact liaison. Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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 NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR

Historical articles and archived stories preserving the history of Colville and Stevens County, 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 Out of the Past Out of the Past Out of the Past: 02/04/2026 February 4, 2026 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Voters of Colville School District No. 5 will vote today on the question of issuing $55,000 in bonds for the purpose of erecting a new school building. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 01/27/2026 January 28, 2026 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Colville will vote on Saturday, Feb. 13, to decide the matter of a new high school building for District 5. If passed, the new high school will be located on Elm Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 01/21/2026 January 21, 2026 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— For 37 years, the Hofstetter two-story frame store building stood on the northeast corner of Main and Beech (Birch). It was the first substantial building erected in the town of Colville after the platting and dedication of the town early in 1883. It was erected by John U. Hofstetter who owned much of the land embraced in the original town of Colville. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 01/14/2026 January 14, 2026 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Stevens County has 2,643 farms, according to the revised estimate Jan. 1 made by the Department of Commerce. This is 84 less than in 1920. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 01/07/2026 January 7, 2026 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— December weather in the Colville valley was the warmest since 1910, the average temperature for the month being 33 degrees. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 12/31/2025 December 31, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Bagley’s Portrait Studio at Kettle Falls is showing some beautiful reproductions of the Kettle Falls of the Columbia and surrounding scenery; they are the personal work of Mr. Bagley, who has copyrights for about 20 pictures of the falls, and sold them for $50 each for calendar use in the east. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 12/24/2025 December 24, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Next Monday, Dec. 28, will be observed throughout the nation by dinners and meetings as the birthday anniversary of Woodrow Wilson, the apostle of world peace, who died in his struggle to attain world peace. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 12/17/2025 December 17, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— The Minzell-Randall Co.: new Ford agency opened for business this week on North Main Street, between Second and Third Streets. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 12/10/2025 December 10, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Colville has a chance to gain fame throughout the nation by being the place of origin of a new apple, an improvement on the Delicious which is probably the most popular eating apple on the market. J.M. Scroggs, living two-and-three-quarters miles northeast of Colville, has propagated a new apple by means of select grafting. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 12/03/2025 December 3, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Right of way for the Inland Empire Highway from Barstow to Kettle Falls bridge site has been secured by County Commissioner John F. May, who on Monday was accompanied over the project by District Engineer Guy Harvey of the State Highway Department. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 11/26/2025 November 26, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Improved postal service for first class mail has been officially asked of the post office department by petitions from all towns between Colville and Spokane. The petitions cite the present unsatisfactory service of mail 12 times a week, and asked that pouches of first-class mail be hereafter transported by the Colville-Spokane stage line, which never makes less than 54 trips a week. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 11/12/2025 November 12, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Teachers Institute will be held in Colville Nov. 23-25. Owing to the fact that the hotels will not be able to accommodate all teachers, it will be necessary that some private homes be opened for the comfort of teachers. All those who have rooms that can be let during this period for the teachers should notify the Hotel Lee. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 11/05/2025 November 5, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— Next Wednesday is Armistice Day, proclaimed a holiday by Governor Hartley, who urges that the people take a brief respite from their daily labors and contemplate the lessons taught by the World War. The Governor’s proclamation says, “Nov. 11, 1918, will be memorable throughout the ages. It was on that day that millions of men under arms ceased firing and the greatest conflict in... Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 10/29/2025 October 29, 2025 Stevens County Historical Society 100 Years Ago— The Upper Columbia Company is finishing picking and packing apples this week, having had about 50 people picking and 25 people in the packing sheds. The apples have been shipped as fast as they were packed. The apples will go into a diversity of markets, some to Sweden, some to England, a part to Georgia, and some to Chicago for storage. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 10/22/2025 October 22, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— The Colville Parent-Teacher Association, by unanimous vote at its regular meeting Tuesday night, placed itself on record as in favor of a new high school building for Colville. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 10/15/2025 October 15, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Bank burglars at some time during the night of Oct. 2-3 entered the Guaranty State Bank at Marcus, broke open both doors of the vault, rifled a dozen or more safe deposit boxes, and escaped with $174 in coins. The damage caused by them amounted to more than the value of their loot. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 10/08/2025 October 8, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago- CHEWELAH—The Congregational Church of Chewelah last Sunday celebrated the 46th anniversary of the founding of the first protestant church in Stevens County, Sept. 14, 1879. The occasion also marked the anniversary of the first public address made in Washington by the Rev. Cushing Eells, missionary, who on Sept. 16, 1838,... Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 10/01/2025 October 1, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 110 Years Ago— Colville winnings at the Spokane fair have again directed considerable attention to this city as the center for grains and for poultry, and the few entries that were made brought results. In the general display awards of the agricultural section, Colville led all the towns in the state. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 09/24/2025 September 24, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— The number of students enrolled in high schools this year greatly exceeds that of last year. There are 274 students in high school and 109 in junior high. The student whose grade comes in the lowest 10% of his class will have the pleasure of meditating on his sins during the eighth period for the next six weeks. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 09/17/2025 September 17, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— The annual fair at Yep-Kanum opens next Wednesday with a gorgeous street parade and pageant at 1 o’clock. From then until midnight on Saturday will be a joyous time in Colville – for this is the seasonal reception which Colville gives to the surrounding country. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 09/10/2025 September 10, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— The oldest building on Main Street, and one of the few early buildings remaining in Colville, stands in modest retirement just south of the Robbins Lumber Co. brick – former home of the Bank of Colville. This building, which has had a number of uses varying from domestic occupancy to commercial and newspaper shelter, was constructed about 1880 by John U. Hofstetter... Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 09/03/2025 September 3, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Worley, residing about five miles south of Kettle Falls, were in Colville Tuesday en route to Spokane where they expected to visit for about a week. They stopped at the Examiner office long enough to show some of the peaches raised on their place. The peaches were of the unproved Crawford variety and one of them was placed on display in this office. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 08/27/2025 August 27, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— Failure to close public dances at 1 o’clock in the morning is responsible for much trouble throughout the county, according to reports which come to the Sheriff’s Office. The use of liquor by some of the dance patrons, and the early morning escapades following the late dances, have caused the sheriff to make many trips in an attempt to preserve order. Read More Out of the Past Out of the Past: 08/20/2025 August 20, 2025 Stevens County Historical Museum 100 Years Ago— On the west side of South Main Street are the crumbling remains of a stone foundation. Grass and weeds partially obscure the rock from view in the summertime. The disintegrating effect of time has left its mark on the work of early stone masons. Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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

Agriculture, farm, and ranch news covering rural life, land use, and farming in Stevens County, 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 Farm & Ranch Farm & Ranch Stevens County Farms and Ranches Look Ahead to 2026 Season January 7, 2026 Meredith Carroll As northeast Washington transitions into the new year, local farmers say they are working hard to stay prepared for what has become an unpredictable winter. While some people may enjoy the winter’s mild temperatures and lack of snow, local farmers and ranchers have expressed mixed feelings. Read More Farm & Ranch Local Ranchers Voice Complaints Against State Agencies and Policies December 3, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “We are seeing our state regulatory agencies get increasingly hostile with landowners and cattlemen,” said Scott Neilson, president of the SCCA. “Whether this is with Department of Ecology (DOE) when it comes to access to water, or with the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) refusal to confirm..." Read More Farm & Ranch Perennial Wisdom November 12, 2025 Christine Gile, WSU Extension Master Gardener, Stevens County It is important to clean and protect gardening pots, containers, and tools when they are not in-use. Improperly stored pots may crack or break when exposed to winter’s freeze and thaw cycles, and dirty garden containers and equipment may transfer pests and diseases to other plants. Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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

Read letters to the editor addressing local issues and community perspectives in Stevens County. 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 Letters to the Editor Walter Stichart Colville February 4, 2026 To the Editor: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Since 1941, I've made that pledge, before and after the amendment, over 2,000times. It always ended the same way. "with liberty and justice for all." Anyone who has recited the pledge even once should learn that the full meaning of being American is to be "one without prejudice" – one who even pledges "liberty and justice for all." And who pledges – with even greater force – as a citizen of a "Nation under God." Unfortunately, some citizens no longer take the pledge seriously, and even some of the leadership of our country, having taken the pledge, violate it. This is the time for someone in Congress to take a stand. Fortunately, there is an increasing number of citizens with signs and banners, whose presence protest injustice, crying loudly "liberty and justice for all." Someone once said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." Lorraine Marie Colville February 4, 2026 When people don’t see a correlation between Nazis and overzealous actions by U.S. federal immigration agents, ask, “Why?” They liked WWII Nazis? They read only what feeds their viewpoint? Some complain that Minnesota’s Gov. Tim Walz fired up protesters. They missed Walz threatening protesters with arrest for crimes and urging peaceful protest. Walz pointed out that, in Germany, those who helped people hunted by Nazis were breaking the law, adding, “…you know what’s right.” Sadly, certain “Christian” leaders don’t ask WWJD. Instead, they allow arrests for skin color, arrests of citizens, breaking car windows to drag out non-threatening people, engaging in unwarranted physical abuse (throwing the compliant person to the ground), violations of gun safety by pointing rifles when not warranted, extrajudicial killings, battering down doors, detainments after refusing valid IDs, and use of threats, “Have you not learned your lesson when we killed that lesbian b*tch?” Unpack that; in Trump’s U.S.A, do as we say or you’re “smoked,” as some agents call it. That’s tyranny. If Minnesota had a Republican governor, protesters would still object to agent brutality. Recall before Trump, there were no broad federal terror tactics regarding illegal immigration. Trump campaigned on deporting the “worst of the worse.” Children, such as 5-year-old Liam Ramos? Trump’s promise was false. He has a 40% approval rating. Noticeable disapproval caused Trump to recently tell DHS that feds won’t intervene during protests in Democratic-led cities, unless asked to. He easily changes his mind. Will that stick? Doug and Sally McQuain Chewelah February 4, 2026 Urgent attention to all residents: When masked thugs take over streets to maim and murder fellow Americans for all to see, it’s not just gone too far. It’s gone apocalyptic. If you care anything about America, its people, and our constitutional republic, it’s past time to stand up to tyranny. If we don’t act now, it will be too late for the "pitchforks" to save us. We are currently experiencing a police state rehearsal in Minnesota unlike any seen before. Sadly, must citizens of Minneapolis needlessly die for us to be shocked into awareness of the consequences of fascist ideology and hatred? Governor Ferguson recently announced his intention to prepare for a similar onslaught in our beloved state of Washington. Make no mistake, we are not safe here just because we happen to live in rural Stevens County. Although German cleric Martin Niemöller was a Nazi sympathizer, he got it right in his poem with which almost everyone is familiar. His last stanza: Then they came for me And there was no one left To speak out for me As Miles Taylor, one of the creators of ICE puts it, “When Americans start asking, sincerely, whether the Trump administration is sliding into ‘Gestapo-style policing,’ it’s not hysteria. It’s rational pattern recognition.” Put simply, stupidity coupled with inaction results in the end of us all. It’s definitely past time for action. Please do your part today.! With peace, love, and hope, Doug and Sally McQuain Lou Stone Inchelium February 4, 2026 Dishonor-Abelled Dishonorable Hunter Abell, WA 7th LD Representative, you are not the first nor the last, to be mis and dis-informed, and worst, a dissembling legislator. You introduced legislation to honor, by monument, the lawless U.S. invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. Your idols-war-criminals George Duh-Buh-Yuh Bush and deceased Dick Cheney’s “shock and awe-full” murdered Arab peoples for their temerity, having “so-called-oilmen” Bush’s and Cheney’s oil under their sand. Lies to Congress to attack Iraq and Afghanistan caused GI-s killed. U.S. troops on the ground followed un-lawful orders to execute and terrorize peaceful Arabian civilians, kicking down doors-to-doors. Sound familiar? You dishonor your grandfather Henry Abell, a reported respected Inchelium educator. You dishonor tribal members and our military veterans, many of whom were terrorized by fascist, anti-Indian residential work camps policy, and/or are descendants of those Christian terror-torture camps about which you have no conscience. Like your MAGA Republican leaders, you want a monument to genocide such as that of attempted exterminations of Indigenous peoples and other non-White peoples around the world. Your leaders want to give medals to the Custer 7th Cavalry for their role in genocides. This letter requests my dishonorable 7th Legislator Abell to instead honor those military veterans holding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, with a monument to human civility, not fascist barbarity like that expressed by every settler-colonial-defending president for the last 250 years. A monument denouncing White Christian Nationalist Supremacy and anti-Indian residential work camps, yet honoring missing and murdered Indigenous peoples. Hilary Ohm Colville January 28, 2026 Are we great yet? It sure doesn’t appear so. In fact, it seems more like we are quickly moving in the opposite direction. In just over two weeks, federal agents have created chaos in Minneapolis. On Saturday, Border Patrol agents executed Alex Pretti. While documenting their terror and assisting a woman who had been pushed to the ground, Alex was pepper sprayed by Border Patrol. Then, multiple agents riddled his body with bullets as he held a camera in one hand and tried to block the spray with the other. His legal, concealed handgun was pulled from his waistband by an agent. He never brandished it. But he was murdered anyway. And just like Renee Good, who was shot in the head and killed by ICE on Jan. 7, he was cruelly mischaracterized as a domestic terrorist by Trump’s spokespeople. The truth is that he was an ICU nurse at a VA hospital and, like Renee, was praised as an upstanding citizen and a compassionate person by those who knew him. Fifty-three detainees have died since the current admin took office. Even young children are being swept up. Conditions are dehumanizing, overcrowded and filthy. The horrible treatment provided has not gone unnoticed. Faith leaders are speaking out. Students and workers are walking out. Massive crowds are gathering to protest and express their outrage. The disregard of our Constitution and the Rule of Law is unacceptable. Please join the growing resistance and make sure you vote in November. Lisa Wolfe Kettle Falls January 28, 2026 Michael Baumgartner asked me this week if I think the U.S. should take Greenland. He framed it casually, as if asking whether I think he should wear green or blue tomorrow, equating the independence of a sovereign country to a click-bait opinion poll. That Baumgartner would use, in this manner, a topic of such dire consequence to the world, illustrates, as always, just how unfit for office this depraved man is. Through inane performance, he chooses to denigrate the people of Greenland and our Danish allies rather than understand his serious responsibility to his country and constituents as a member of congress. It’s not a game Mike. Baumgartner also continues to portray his betrayal of CD5 constituents as “winning” by touting the crumbs Republicans offer to our agricultural community. Farmers don’t want handouts; they want markets. But the Republicans killed the markets by allowing Trump’s disastrous tariff taxes, with Baumgartner’s full-throated approval. Yes, tariffs are a tax on us; no one else is paying them. And with Baumgartner’s baseless request to begin “program-integrity” reviews of Washington’s Medicaid services, child nutrition programs, and child-care subsidy systems, he aims to further sabotage our systems here in eastern Washington. I guess it’s the second act, after torpedoing healthcare. How did we elect such a repugnant individual to be our reflection of CD5 in Washington DC. Let’s not make that same mistake this November. Vote him out. John Axtell Valley January 28, 2026 OSPI approved a spending plan for an Enrichment Levy, not for the EP&O Levy that Mary Walker is asking voters to approve. In 2027, it increases our tax 44% over our 2025 tax, increasing to 64% in 2030. This increase of 84% since 2021 is unsustainable. This levy is a blank check that has no defined budget or goals. Its spending plan does not pay for sports, transportation, operational costs, maintenance, safety or teachers for regular classroom instruction. The plan authorizes salaries for staff and programs that have produced disastrous results. Of students entering the ninth grade in 2025, 93% did not have consistent grade level knowledge in Math and 76% in Language Arts. Of 11th-grade students, 94% were not on track in Math and 76% in Language Arts. Not voting “no” may enable highly motivated special interest groups who want your money to pass this levy. Please take the time to vote “no,” joining me and others to oppose special interest groups and defeat this massive, unsustainable tax increase. Ask your neighbors to vote “no.” If they want to donate to the district, encourage them to do so, but ask that they not force you to take money from your family budget to support failure. Voting against this levy is in the best interest of students, families, voters and our community. Working together, our district can be better. Do not be misled by their deceptive marketing to get an extra million yearly. Visit 4freedomwa.com for state data, concerns and facts. Orval Goede Colville January 28, 2026 I have noticed in the last few issues of this paper that there seems to be a lot of opposition to the president and his administration. As I see it, he is doing what he was elected to do. It appears to me that there are a lot of citizens who have drunk the fruit juice supplied by the Demos and their publicity arm, the mainstream media. For those who missed my reference here, it is likened to the followers of Jim Jones in Jamestown. I find it difficult to fathom how sane citizens can be in favor of supporting the illegals in this country and villainize the law enforcement trying to remove them. The call for immigration reform is not needed; the immigration system is not broken. The ones complaining are only looking for a way to justify open borders. Those citizens who justify the actions of those breaking our laws seem to be only drinking more and more fruit punch. The people who were brought here years ago by their parents are not exempt from being illegal; they have had years to apply and go through the process to become citizens. Myriah Pazereckas Roy Colville January 28, 2026 Thank you to the Miners! I am uplifted and grateful to Lynn and Becky Miner, who live outside of Chewelah, and who donated their 100-acre tree farm to Washington State University Extension Forestry. The Miners bought this land in 1992 and found the land had been mismanaged through poor logging practices, and needed loving attention. Not knowing anything about forestry, they did research and learned what they needed to do to restore the land and to make it habitable for birds and other wildlife. And so, with the labor of love, they planted thousands of ponderosa pines and western larch trees on their land, and supported wildlife by hanging up hundreds of nest boxes for birds and small animals. In speaking with Lynn Miner, he shared that he and his wife Becky wanted to leave the land they so love to an organization that would use it to teach wise management of the land. Although they could have made a personal fortune by selling it, they chose the path of honoring our earth and educating people in good stewardship of the land. Their generosity is an inspiration to me. Thank you, Lynn and Becky Miner! Larry Ludwig Kettle Falls January 28, 2026 Letter to the Editor: In the Jan. 8, 2026 issue of the Chewelah Independent, an article noted that our 7th Legislative District (LD) Representative Andrew Engell was selected by the bi-partisan Council of State Governments to be an “early career state legislator” participant in its December 2025 Western Legislative Academy. The training focused on rules of legislative institutions, effective communication, negotiation, and conflict management. As Engell stated, to better his approach to work “thoughtfully, professionally, and with respect for the institution and people we serve.” Engell feels his participation reflected both his commitment to serving all constituents in the 7th LD and advancing sound public policy. His goal is the use of honest conversations, searching for “solutions to improve people’s lives, not destructive politics that divide us.” He's a legislator who hopefully will live up to the expectations of both the council and voters, like myself, that he will indeed search for sound bipartisan solutions to the urgent challenges (including overcoming the current massive billions-of-dollars state budgetary shortfall) facing the citizens of Washington State and our rural 7th LD, many living in a crisis battle-for-survival mode. That he will reach across the aisle in Olympia and work with his Democratic counterparts. That he will vote his conscience, not lock-step, frog march to the Trump party line rhetoric. That he will not pull a Baumgartner. That he won’t just talk the talk. But vote the walk. And help take us forward to a life that is both sustainable and affordable! Joe A. Mochala Kettle Falls January 21, 2026 To The Editor: As a retired 84-yr old police officer, I have seen a lot in my lifetime that was both good and bad. This is now how I see what’s happening to the great U.S.A. We are losing our love for God and country. What has happened to our common sense? We are allowing many anti-Christians into the country who want to destroy our Christian values. As Christians, we need to push back on what is destroying our country. First a notice to all Catholics and Christians. If you vote as a democrat you cannot be Catholic or Christian, you are either one or the other. The Democratic party is very much against Christian values. They are anti-U.S. citizens, anti-public-safety, pro-illegal immigrant, pro-abortion, pro-gay marriage, pro-sex change, pro-LBTQ, and many other anti-Christian teachings. Backed by Democrats, there are now many protests against our federal law enforcement officers who are trying to protect us against criminals and illegals to make us safer. When George Floyd and Renee Good died, it was because of their own doings. They put themselves in harm’s way and suffered the outcome. The only unjustified police killing was by the D.C. Police officer Ashley Babbitt, who should have been charged with 1st degree murder. Where were the protests against him for that killing? Elisanne McCutchen Springdale January 21, 2026 Last week, Rep. Michael Baumgartner shared on social media that he announced Washington State University’s new football coach on the floor of Congress. Folks around here love WSU as much as anyone, but that moment raises a simple question: is that really what Congress should be focused on right now? People in rural communities expect their representatives to take their jobs seriously. When someone is sent to Washington, D.C., it’s to stand up for constituents, protect basic rights, and keep an eye on federal agencies that have real power over people’s lives. Across the country, there are growing concerns about immigration enforcement, due process, and accountability. Reports of people being detained without clear justification – including U.S. citizens – and of deaths occurring in federal custody should concern anyone who believes in the Constitution and limited government overreach. At a time when trust in government is already thin, symbolic or lighthearted moments in Congress can feel out of step with what many Americans are experiencing. This isn’t about party politics. It’s about whether elected officials are focused on the work they were sent there to do. Congress is not meant to be a stage. It is meant to be a check on power and a voice for the people. Washington’s 5th District deserves representation that reflects that responsibility. Loading… Load More Articles Got Something to Say? We want to hear! Send a Letter to the Editor 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

Outdoor recreation coverage including hunting, fishing, wildlife, and public lands in 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 Great Outdoors Great Outdoors Statewide Fishing Opportunities Offered on Black Friday November 19, 2025 Staff Report Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) officials announced they plan to stock nearly 65,000 jumbo rainbow trout in 25 lakes statewide, including two in Stevens County, ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, offering anglers a chance to get outside for Washington’s annual Black Friday fishing. Read More Great Outdoors 2025 Local Wildfire Data Indicates Record Ignitions and Lingering Smoke November 12, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer As the 2025 fire season comes to an end in the area, a synthesis of the statewide statistics has been compiled by a number of organizations to reveal upward trends of ignitions and late-season smoke. Read More Great Outdoors Court Denies Request to Prevent Sherman Pack Wolf Removal November 5, 2025 Staff Report A King County Superior Court judge denied the request for a preliminary injunction to prevent the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) from lethally removing one wolf from the Sherman pack in Ferry County on Oct. 31. This comes after WDFW staff investigated an injured calf in the Sherman wolf pack territory in Ferry County on Oct. 23. Read More Great Outdoors WDFW Deputy Director Approved Lethal Removal of Sherman Pack Wolf October 15, 2025 Staff Report According to WDFW, Windrope’s decision is consistent with the guidance of the state's Wolf Conservation and Management Plan and the lethal removal provisions of the department's 2020 Wolf-Livestock Interaction Protocol. WDFW officials stated that the rationale for authorizing lethal removal of one Sherman pack wolf is as follows... Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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

In-depth profiles highlighting the people, families, and organizations shaping Stevens County communities. 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 Profiles Profiles Local Couple Restores Tree Farm and Donates it for Research January 13, 2026 Monica Carrillo-Casas 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. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Chris Petterson November 26, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “I say I have a passion for life, and I do. I've lived an amazing life, and I'm still living an amazing life,” said local resident, Chris Petterson. “But, it’s not all roses. Everybody has difficult times in their life. And my philosophy is, that's what helps us grow, learn, and have something to teach… We have the opportunity to choose what we will do with those hard times..." Read More Profiles The Heart of Being in Public Service: Dorothy Knauss November 12, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus Dorothy Knauss is about to relinquish the reins of mayorship for a second time in her life after stepping into Chewelah’s interim mayor position in June; this time to the new incoming mayor, Lindsay Baxter. Before stepping down, she shared a little about her background and experience as a civil servant and elected mayor. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Don Birch November 12, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “I started delivering newspapers when I was seven years old,” Don Birch said when recalling his introduction and initiation into a world that foreshadowed his future vocation. “I’d get up at 4 every morning, and I had the whole North Hill that I delivered to. I did that until I was a sophomore in high school, then I started at the Statesman-Examiner. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Dannie McNeil October 29, 2025 Tamara Lee Titus “I have no regrets. I have been really blessed,” Dannie McNeil said when reflecting on his life. "I am gonna be 80 years old, and I look at other people that old and I think, do I really look that bad?” He chuckled. The Colville native, born in 1945, said he spent his early childhood in the mining town of Bossburg, Wash. He was one of four children in a family where..." Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Marvin Rose October 8, 2025 Nancy Weigel Rose said his family moved from Rice when he was young, going to Pleasant Valley for school until moving to Colville in the seventh grade. He said he started working for a dairy farm at age 14, and worked from then until he was drafted. His favorite subject in school was math, where his home room teacher got him into it, and he used to eat lunch with her every day. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Shirley Hansen-Luiten-Hall September 24, 2025 Nancy Weigel Shirley remembered how, as a child, she would frequently visit her grandparents house on Kelly Hill, and how they would take her to dances held at the Old School House where she'd dance with all the other kids. At Christmas time, Shirley said her grandparents had a horse and a sleigh they would use to go out and pick a big tree to bring home. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Lilian Leslie September 17, 2025 Nancy Weigel Lillian Marie Leslie said she was born at Tonasket Hospital in 1940. She spent her earlier years in Lynn, Wash., where her father owned an orchard; the family then moved to a ranch in Molson, Wash., where she said she fondly remembers climbing trees, the ranch cats that liked to catch the mice, and her mother’s big garden that she helped with every year. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Peter Johnson September 3, 2025 Nancy Weigel Johnson said he eventually learned how to square dance, tap dance, salsa, and much more. Johnson said his favorite subject was Physical Education. He attended the University of Washington after graduating from high school and achieved his Business Associate's Degree. Read More Profiles Ode to an Older Time: Timothy Schirman August 20, 2025 Nancy Weigel Timothy Schirman was born in Monroe, Wash., and said he spent most of his childhood there, attending and graduating from Monroe High School. Some of his favorite childhood memories include his time in the Boy Scouts, collecting Hotwheels (which he still does to this day), and hunting for his family with his father. Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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 sports coverage featuring high school and community athletics from Colville and Stevens County. 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 Sports McMillan Uplifts Chewelah Boys Basketball; Girls Team Drops Two Games Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 McMillan’s 26 lifts Chewelah boys past St. George’s Ryen McMillan continued to be a top scorer in the NE2B League, as he poured in 26 points as the Chewelah Cougars rallied for a 56-54 nailbiter victory over the St. George's Dragons on Saturday, Jan. 31. Read More Sports Kettle Falls Basketball Edged by St. George’s Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Late Surge Lifts St. George’s Past Kettle Falls Liam Darcy scored 15 points, and the St. George's Dragons pulled away in the fourth quarter to hand the Kettle Falls Bulldogs a 49-46 NE2B boys basketball loss on Jan. 27. Read More Sports Colville Wrestlers Edged By Riverside in Tight Dual Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 The Colville Crimson Hawks wrestling team came up just short in a tightly contested dual, falling 41-39 to the Riverside Rams on Thursday, Jan. 28. Read More Sports Kettle Falls Wrestlers Fall to Davenport in Physical Dual Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Kettle Falls picked up six wins on the night, all by fall or forfeit. Gideon Evans opened the scoring for the Bulldogs with a forfeit victory at 126 pounds, and Joseph Young followed with a pin at 132 pounds to give Kettle Falls early momentum. Read More Sports Crimson Hawk Basketball Downs Riverside in Both Boys and Girls Leagues Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Colville’s Darnold Lights Up Net in Win Over Riverside Parker Darnold scored 20 points to lift the Colville Crimson Hawks to a 57-52 NEA League boys basketball win over the Riverside Rams on Friday, Jan. 30. Read More Sports Inchelium Girls Advance with Loser-Out Win Over Springdale Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Inchelium (12-6) held Springdale to just 14 points in the second half. The Hornets led 21-11 at the break and never allowed the Chargers to mount a serious comeback. Read More Sports Chewelah Wrestlers Struggle Against Newport in Road Dual Brandon Hansen February 4, 2026 Newport built an early advantage with back-to-back forfeits at 190 and 215 pounds, then added a quick pin at heavyweight as Landen Pillers defeated Wyatt Gould in 32 seconds. Read More Sports Kettle Falls Wrestling Downs Chewelah Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Kettle Falls wrestling team picked up a decisive NE2B league victory Wednesday, Jan. 21, rolling past Chewelah 66-14 in a dual between Stevens County teams. Read More Sports Stensgar Scores 61 Points, Inchelium Basketball Finishes Third in League Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 Inchelium opened the stretch Jan. 20 with a commanding 97-23 nonleague win over Nespelem Warriors at home. The Hornets set the tone immediately, racing out to a 25-0 first-quarter lead and never letting up. Read More Sports Chewelah Boys Take Down Newport Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 Chewelah opened the week on Jan. 20, with a 56-30 victory over the Newport Grizzlies on the road. The Cougars pulled away after halftime, holding Newport to just two points in the third quarter while steadily extending their lead. Read More Sports Northport Girls Drop Matchups to Selkirk, Inchelium Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 Northport opened the week with a 49-37 loss to the visiting Selkirk Rangers on Jan. 20. The Mustangs were tied 8-8 after the first quarter but struggled offensively in the second, scoring just three points as Selkirk built a 22-11 halftime lead. Read More Sports Colville Girls Rebound with Dominant Win Over Newport Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Colville girls basketball team bounced back from a Northeast A road loss with a nonleague victory Saturday, Jan. 24, rolling past Newport 68-28 at home to improve to 10-5 overall. Read More Sports Northport Boys Basketball Finishes as NE 1B North Champions Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Northport boys basketball team finished as the NE 1B North regular season champions after a strong run through league play last week, picking up three convincing victories to fend off Republic in the league standings. Read More Sports Lady Bulldogs Drop to 3-7 in Basketball League Play Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Kettle Falls girls basketball team lost a pair of Northeast 2B North games last week, dropping to 6-12 overall and 3-7 in NE 2B League play. Kettle Falls opened the week on the road Jan. 20, with a 58-20 loss to unbeaten league leader Reardan. The Screaming Eagles launched to an 18-1 first-quarter lead and maintained control throughout the contest. Read More Sports Colville Wrestling Defeats Medical Lake in Dual Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Colville wrestling team opened NEA League wrestling action on Wednesday, Jan. 21, downing the defending league champion Medical Lake, 37-33. The Crimson Hawks picked up key wins from Everett Bruchman at 215 pounds, who earned a 9-0 major decision over Robert Carson, and later added an exhibition pin against Junior Garcia. Read More Sports Chewelah Girls Basketball Drops Two League Matchups Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 Chewelah opened the week with a 34-19 loss to the Newport Grizzlies on Jan. 20. The Cougars trailed 15-8 at halftime and were unable to close the gap. Read More Sports Colville Boys Hit 12 Three-Pointers Against Newport Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Colville boys basketball team had a good weekend when they needed it. The Crimson Hawks picked up back-to-back nonleague victories over Deer Park and Newport to even their record at 8-8 overall after an early-week loss to NEA League foe Lakeside. Read More Sports Kettle Falls Boys Basketball Drops Pair of League Games Brandon Hansen January 28, 2026 The Kettle Falls boys basketball team dropped a pair of NE 2B league games last week, falling to Reardan and Davenport. Kettle Falls opened the week on the road Jan. 20, with a 70-26 loss to league power Reardan. The Screaming Eagles jumped out to a 21-10 lead after one quarter and never let up, outscoring the Bulldogs 43-15 over the middle two quarters. Read More Sports Inchelium Boys Basketball Continues Hot Streak Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 The Inchelium Hornets closed the week with a 63-41 road win over the Curlew Cougars on Jan. 17. Gaige Stensgar led all scorers with 26 points as Inchelium pulled away in the second half. The Hornets led 29-18 at halftime and put the game out of reach with a 20-point fourth quarter. Derek Perez added 17 points, including three 3-pointers. Read More Sports Sackman, Davis Shine Again For Colville Wrestling Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 After receiving a first-round bye, Davis dropped into the consolation bracket following a loss to Cannon Meagher of Kennewick, then mounted an impressive run that included four consecutive wins by fall. Davis pinned Nathaniel Flores of Othello, Xavier Charvet of Grandview, and Trayvon Braziel-Lee of Fife before earning a major decision over Francisco Valencia of Toppenish. Read More Sports Colville Wins Fifth Straight With Bad News Defense Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 Make that five wins in a row for the Colville girls basketball team, demonstrating that the Crimson Hawks’ defense could be a very real problem for opponents in NEA League play. Read More Sports Chewelah and Kettle Falls Wrestlers Cook at Apple Pie Invite Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 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. Read More Sports Colville's Offense Explodes, But So Does Medical Lake's Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 In its NEA League opener on Friday night against Medical Lake, the Crimson Hawks definitely found the basket. But so did the Cardinals. Read More Sports Northport Basketball Fights to Remain a Top League Contender Brandon Hansen January 21, 2026 The Republic Tigers (13-0 overall, 9-0 league) remained unbeaten in league play with a 48-18 win over the visiting Northport Mustangs in Republic on Saturday, Jan. 17. Read More Sports Loading… Load More Articles Hey Parents, Coaches and Fans! Take out your phone and snap those pictures of your kids' sporting events and send them to us! Submit Photo 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

Coverage of local government, elections, public meetings, and policy decisions affecting Stevens County residents. 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 Government Government Chewelah City Council Hears Public Concerns, Approves Banking Change and Fire Grant Application February 4, 2026 Brandon Hansen During public comment, a resident urged council members to delay any future ordinances related to pet ownership until additional data on rabies risk and dog bites can be reviewed. Read More Government New Superior Court Judge Sworn In January 28, 2026 Tamara Lee Titus Stevens, Pend Oreille, and Ferry County’s newly-appointed Superior Court Judge Thomas Webster was sworn into office on Friday, Jan. 23. “I’m honored,” Webster said, adding that the application process was long and comprehensive. Read More Government Stevens County Justice Center Development Delayed January 21, 2026 Bruce Rushton Stevens County commissioners said they are scaling back plans for a new jail and courtroom facility two years after voters approved taxes to pay for a justice center adjacent to the existing courthouse. “(W)e can’t build the building that we want,” Commission Chairman Greg Young said at a board meeting called to discuss the project on Jan. 15. “Like I said, it’s too darn expensive.” Read More Government Rep. Engell Proposes Bill to Expand Options for Radiologic Technologists January 14, 2026 Brandon Hansen House Bill (HB) 2113, prefiled for the 2026 legislative session, proposed changes to state regulations governing radiologic technologists by allowing additional flexibility in physician supervision while maintaining patient safety requirements. Read More Government New Year, New Laws Taking Effect on Jan. 1 December 31, 2025 Brandon Hansen MINIMUM WAGE While the state already has one of the highest minimum wages in the country, it will increase again. Officials said Washington will raise its minimum wage to $17.13 in 2026, up 2.8% from $16.66. The federal minimum wage is $7.25. Read More Government Congressman Baumgartner Takes Stock of First Year in D.C. December 24, 2025 Cami Krema In an interview with the Statesman-Examiner, Congressman Michael Baumgartner (R-Spokane) discussed his time as a U.S. House Representative for Washington state’s 5th district, reflecting on accomplishments and hurdles faced throughout his freshman year in Congress. Read More Government Tight Revenue Outlook Puts Pressure on State Budget December 17, 2025 Brandon Hansen 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. Read More Government Hansen Reflects on Brief Stint on Chewelah City Council December 17, 2025 Brandon Hansen In his letter of resignation, he stated, “It’s my understanding that the state statute indicates that I would continue to serve in the seat until the next election. I appreciate the trust placed in me this past year and the opportunity to serve our community. However, after careful consideration, I have decided to step down from this seat.” Read More Government Chewelah City Council Swears in New Mayor December 10, 2025 Brandon Hansen Chewelah’s new mayor and two council members took the oath of office Dec. 1, but the first order of business at the Dec. 3 city council meeting was a resignation. Read More Government Stevens and Ferry Counties Certify Election Results December 3, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer The general election results for Stevens and Ferry Counties were officially certified on Nov. 25. The results include: STEVENS COUNTY City of Chewelah Lindsay Baxter won the election for the Chewelah Mayor, finishing with 606 (67.11%) of the total 903 votes. Read More Government Local Representative Motivated by Constituents as He Looks Forward to Upcoming Session November 26, 2025 Cami Krema 7th District Legislative Rep. Hunter Abell (R-Inchelium) reflected on his time spent since leaving Olympia in April, and what he looks forward to accomplishing during the next legislative session. Read More Government Colville City Council Approves Funds for Local Tourism November 19, 2025 Isidora Patrick The Colville city council meeting on Nov. 10 was full of energy as the council members juggled budgets, allocated funds to local events, and celebrated the return of local volunteers. The council got straight to business, quickly approving the consent agenda, including signing off on October’s minutes and the monthly $388,000 city staff payroll. Read More Government Uncertainty Persists After Government Shutdown Ends November 19, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer After a record 43-day shutdown, the federal government reopened on Wednesday, Nov. 12, after President Donald Trump signed a funding package. The U.S. House approved Resolution 222-209, funding parts of the government through January, and others through fall 2026. According to the resolution’s language, the agreement will also reverse the mass federal layoffs that occurred during the shutdown. Read More Government Rep. Engell Raises Eastern Washington Concerns with Gov. Ferguson November 19, 2025 Cami Krema Representative Andrew Engell (R-Colville), met with Washington state governor Bob Ferguson in Spokane on Nov. 8, to discuss local issues and explore common ground. Engell said that his goal for the meeting was to help build trust in the state government, reduce tension between the urban and rural communities, and ensure the east side of the state is heard. Read More Government Stevens County Commissioners Heated Over Veteran Relief Policy November 12, 2025 Cami Krema The Stevens County commissioners met on Nov. 7, to discuss the county’s new Veterans Relief Fund (VRF) policy. During the meeting, the commissioners found themselves unable to reach an agreement on approving the new policy and whether it would benefit local veterans. Read More Government Preliminary Election Results Released for Stevens and Ferry Counties November 12, 2025 Emma Lee Conyer 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. Read More Government Colville City Council Discusses Stipend Budget, Historic Preservation Efforts and EMS Confusion November 5, 2025 Isidora Patrick The council approved a three-year extension with Walsh Coomer and Associates Inc., worth $491,190, to continue engineering and construction work on the city’s Reservoir No. 2 project. The updated agreement runs through 2028 and covers final design and bidding. Council members also gave the green light to an easement agreement with Day Management Corporation... Read More Government Local Lawmakers Meet with Canadian Neighbors October 22, 2025 Staff Report State representatives Hunter Abell, R-Inchelium, and Andrew Engell, R-Colville, from Washington's 7th 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. Read More Government Engell Hosts Governor’s Natural Resources Advisor for Industry Roundtables in Colville September 24, 2025 Staff Report The duo toured the Meyers Falls Dam on Sept. 19, led by Ben Hendrickson, president of Hydro Technology Systems, Inc., and accompanied by Mike Phillips, owner of Sheep Creek Hydro, Inc. The group discussed various issues and topics relating to hydro power, including price discrepancies in what is sold vs. bought back by the state... Read More Loading… Load More Articles 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