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Colville City Council Discusses Stipend Budget, Historic Preservation Efforts and EMS Confusion - 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 City Council Discusses Stipend Budget, Historic Preservation Efforts and EMS Confusion November 5, 2025 By: Isidora Patrick The Colville City Council dove into a packed agenda on Oct. 28, addressing topics ranging from engineering upgrades and local heritage, to ambulance coverage and lifeguard training. 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, which clarifies property rights along existing access roads and allows for limited improvements. As part of the city’s mid-biennium budget review, council members weighed whether to boost their $50-per-meeting stipend. Some argued for keeping it as a symbol of public service, while others pushed for a monthly allowance to better reflect their efforts. Ultimately, the council left the pay unchanged, agreeing to revisit the topic at a later date. A spirited debate over an $8,666 funding request from the Historic Preservation Committee ended with the council paring it down to $1,048. Rather than printing hundreds of history booklets, the council unanimously supported historic plaques and membership fees, while exploring a digital, QR-code approach to showcase Colville’s storied homes and landmarks. The council spent a significant portion of the meeting addressing confusion about Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and ambulance services. Members voiced concern about potential double-billing when different agencies such as Stevens County, District 7 (Arden) and Pend Oreille respond to calls within city limits. The group also noted that recent state insurance reimbursement changes have added more complexity to local billing. Reports indicated that the sheriff’s ambulance service received about $400,000 in additional county funding to stay operational. To obtain clearer answers, the council stated plans to invite the current EMS providers to explain the differences between Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support systems, and to meet with the county commissioners to discuss possible next steps. Parks and Recreation Director Jillian Marshall said that city parks are almost set for winter after a successful fall cleanup. The department’s Zombie Walk drew a lively crowd, and babysitting classes for junior high students proved popular, according to Marshall. With winter basketball leagues on the horizon, Marshall also announced plans to hire more swim instructors next summer to alleviate the workload for lifeguards and enhance safety. Meanwhile, the council reviewed the Colville Chamber of Commerce’s revived “Business Show and Tell” series that highlighted Jabe’s Beef and the new business Tow Major Towing. The next council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 10, at 6 p.m., and is scheduled to include a closed-record hearing on a new behavioral health ordinance, as well as further budget discussions. 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

Sadie Rose Ann Wozney — a community announcement published by the Statesman-Examiner serving 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 Births Sadie Rose Ann Wozney Sadie Rose Ann Wozney was born on Jan. 2, 2026, to parents Emily and Nicolas Wozney of Chewleah, Wash. She weighed 8 pounds at birth. Her maternal grandparents are David C. Baskin and Cynthia A. Baskin of Colville, Wash. Her paternal grandparents are Joel and Kimberley Wozney of Didsbury, Alberta, Canada. Her maternal great-grandparents are William and Susan Oswald of Chesaw, Wash. and Curtis and Alice Baskin of Spokane, Wash., deceased. Her paternal great-grandparents are Frank Wozney and Catherin Guillemaud, deceased, and John Foster and Deborah Courtney, deceased. Previous Next 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

Ode to an Older Time: Chris Petterson - 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 Ode to an Older Time: Chris Petterson November 26, 2025 By: Tamara Lee Titus Photo courtesy 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. And if you choose to still look for all of the good that's around you, and the positives of what might come out from this, you get through it a lot easier. You make it through, and you're a lot stronger.” Petterson said she has lived along the Kettle River, near the Canadian border for the last 30 years with her husband, Chris. “He's Christopher and I'm Christie; I was named after the ski term, ‘Stem Christie.’ I am so grateful they didn't call me ‘Stem,’” she joked. Petterson said the duo started a business called Petterson's Construction when they first moved to the area, and “people knew us as ‘Chris and Chris’” she added. When asked what brought her to Stevens County, she responded, “I came to this area because my father was the Colville District [Forest Service] ranger and my sister and I grew up in this area. I was really close with my dad.” Due to her father being a botanist, she spent a lot of time out in the woods with him learning the Latin terms for all the plants he classified. “They usually wouldn’t have people with the Forest Service stay in one place more than three years without a transfer. So, I have lived in a lot of places, but I am a western girl. I like the West. That’s what brought me to the area, and the beauty and richness of the wild attracted me,” she said. Petterson discussed her “reverse retirement,” explaining, “A lot of people will buy their retirement home so they can go from there and travel. We bought our retirement place so that we could build it, which means we had to work. We found our place on the Stevens County side of the Kettle River on one of the scariest roads probably in Stevens County. It even has the nickname of ‘Rock and Roll Road.’ It was an abandoned county road that was part of the Sand Creek Rock Cut Road with straight rock cliffs on the east side and straight down to the river on the other side.” She said that it used to be the original stagecoach road and she has found square nails around this historical spot. “Matney Beach sits across the river, and when the water levels are low, you can still see the ponds from the ferry that would take the stage cars in the river,” she said. “Basically, we homesteaded the place, and are still homesteading. We were able to build quite an infrastructure; I have a nice little orchard, a vineyard, every kind of berry bush and my garden. It's just fun and it's still fun. We're still working on things, of course, and changing things; but it's been wonderful. I loved it because, in all my life, I wanted to find a place to live that had lots of rock, flora, fauna and water. And in that place, we have all the above. It's lovely.” Growing up, Petterson talked about being raised in a family that loved books. “I’ll never forget, you’d go to grandma and grandpa’s house, and he’d have seven big, thick books opened up to where he was on, in each book, on the back of a davenport. He memorized a lot of things, a lot of poetry, and the Constitution. And, it just trickled down through all of the rest of our lives.” She described her father growing up poor and perhaps in the wrong era because he had a love for all things dated. She remarked, “He should’ve been born at the very beginning of the century. I was raised with lots of antique woodworking tools, kerosene lamps, and we always had a team or two of horses. For hobbies, my dad would farm his place with the horses. He had a sawmill, and he would fell the trees on his place with the horses, and then he milled the wood and built his house up on Kelly Hill.” She said that she grew to love all things of the past like him, adding, “I didn't realize those things were antiques until I was older; they were just part of our living out there and growing up.” She still practices many of the things she learned from him, and commented, “I like the old ways of preserving food and baking bread; a lot of the things that a lot of people don't do any longer.” She also shared a special “Father’s Blessing” that she received from him where he encouraged her to always be aware of the gifts and knowledge of others. She said he reminded her to be grateful for that, saying, “I always have… I was gifted with a passion for life and learning.” Petterson said she has a son,a daughter, and nine grandchildren. She said, “Oh, it’s fun to see all of their interests and how they've picked up on some of the things that I've loved. They've taken off with some of the things that they love and introduced them to me; it's a joy.” She continued, “My family is all over the place. So, not being around them all the time, I’m [still] with kids everyday.” The “kids” she is referring to are the students of the Orient School. She described getting the job there, when her body needed a break after a decade of construction work with her husband, “In the Statesman-Examiner , there was an ad for a job opening with the Orient School District… I just tried, and I was excited that I got the job, and that’s where I am still. I've been there almost 20 years.” She recounted the first time she went to the school. “It was a January morning. I walked up the steps of the old school and opened the door. They had a boiler system with radiators on either side of the front doors, and they're singing and clanging… It gave a different warmth, an old-fashioned warmth.” Smiling, she told of looking down a long bench in the hallway, “with coats and little gloves, and it was like I walked into a history book. Underneath the bench, there were little cubicles, and inside of each was a pair of ice skates. I'm not kidding.” When the weather is appropriate, she said her husband sets up the ice skating rink. (He is an Emergency Medical Responder, firefighter and is on the extrication team of their volunteer fire department). She said that they take one of the bigger tanker trucks full of water from the local fire hydrant in town and come over and pour it, and by morning, it's ready. The kids are able to use it for Physical Education and recess. Petterson shared that she is also a volunteer Emergency Medical Responder for Fire Districts 3 & 8. When asked about working at one of the oldest schools in the state, she detailed, “Oh my gosh. I've always wanted to share knowledge, and I've always loved to learn… But I didn't know that I would work in the school system. I'm the administrative assistant and the district secretary. And, when you have a small school district, you do everything else. The Orient School is more like a family; we have three grades per teacher, all together in the classroom. It's a lot like schools used to be; it's wonderful to watch how the older children take care of the younger children and how the younger kids learn from the older children. And the staff, we’re just a family. I love working with kids. I might be there forever. Who knows?” Petterson said, “My husband and I, our children are grown and our grandchildren aren't close, but we're raising everybody else's kids as much as we can. Not raising them for them, but in support of them, in support of the kids. My whole philosophy for life is right there. I really believe that it takes a village.” She quoted General Colin Powell when discussing her experience championing community and volunteerism, “One of the things that he said that hit me so hard – he grew up in New York, and in an area that was shady – he said, ‘If you know that one person cares about you, it makes all the difference in the world.’ And as an adult, he said, ‘I am where I am because of the village.’” Petterson said she met Powell while volunteering earlier in her life in Utah. She explained that, while serving as director of Volunteer Efforts for the governor in 1997, they had the President’s Summit for America's Future and she was asked to go. “It was really an honor. What an experience. We had President Clinton and his wife, President Bush and his wife, President Carter and his wife. President Ford, Nancy Reagan, Vice President Al Gore, and Ladybird Johnson was even there,” she said. “It was surreal.” During her time living in Utah in 1983, she helped put together “LoToJa” which is a bicycle race from Logan, Utah to Jackson, Wyo., spanning 215 miles. She was an avid rider and participated in the longest, one-day United States Auto Club-sanctioned bicycle race in 1993. She expressed, “I always had purpose in some of the crazy things that I did, because I always had a passion for giving.” This was reflected by the sponsorship rallied at this event, which has been a fundraising resource for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, National Ability Center, Utah High School Bicycle Leagues, ALS Foundation, and Bike Utah, with contributions totaling almost $3 million to date. She noted that she has always been athletic, and a “tomboy.” One of her favorite adventures was when she was 16, and manned a fire lookout tower with her best friend in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. At one point, the tower was struck by lightning, causing her friend’s hair to stand up and anything that was plastic to be “static-ed” to the wall. She recalled, “You could feel the hairs on your arms standing up. It smelt so strong of sulphur.” At one point, Petterson’s daughter said, “Mom, you have to write a book.” Petterson has started it, and shared a preview of an empowering experience she had with her father: “The first chapter is about… in those days, I could go to work with my dad sometimes, and we would take pack horses into the Wind River Mountains… We came to one place where it [the Wind River] flows down in this gorge. There's this funky wooden bridge that went from side to side; no railings or anything. We're on horseback and my dad – he was quite the horseman – told me that I needed to pull the reins, make sure that they were even, yet with enough play that the horse could turn its head if it wanted to, but not enough that he didn't know that I was in charge. He said, ‘I want you to hold them in your hands and hold on to the horn. Pull your knees in tight. Sit tall in your saddle. Let your horse know you're ready to go, and then let him take you.’” And, they crossed. She continued, “But on the way home, by the time we got to the gorge, it was dark. This time, my dad said, ‘This is different. I want you to loosen those reins, tie them around the horn. Don't touch them after that. Hold onto the horn.’ He said, ‘Don't you tell your horse to go. Your horse will go. And we're just going across it. They can see, and we can’t.’ And we did. It was crazy. My dad did crazy things. But I've lived to tell it.” A number of years ago, Petterson said she was asked to speak at Orient School’s eighth-grade graduation. “I decided to speak about landmarks and I explained how pioneers and explorers would make the trails, and they'd leave landmarks, so the people coming behind them would have some idea of where they are,” describing the value of guiding and providing information to others. “It's important that you be aware of where you are and set your landmarks, so that others have some direction,” she asserted. She summed up, “I've had such a wonderful life, and how can you keep those things to yourself and not share what you've learned? When it's a passion, how do you harbor that within yourself? You've got to share it.” Petterson said she encourages everyone to volunteer in some way, saying “I don't believe there's anybody that doesn't have something from their life that they can share and give. There's so many opportunities, yet not enough people to do it.” 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

Constructive Fun Toys Moves in with Nana’s Kiln Time - 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 Constructive Fun Toys Moves in with Nana’s Kiln Time February 4, 2026 By: Samantha Peone Constructive Fun Toys announced on Dec. 30, 2025, plans to move into Nana’s Kiln Time, at 108 N. Main Street in Colville. 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. Constructive Fun Toys will primarily occupy wall space as well as some floor space in its new location. Despite the downsizing, its stock won’t be affected much, said Anderson. “There are certain things that I won’t carry continuously year round,” she said. “I’m going to be a bit more selective on seasonal items. I’ll have one shelf, probably, dedicated to more seasonal things, such as butterfly gardens and bug-catching kits. All that kind of stuff is going to be around specifically during the spring and summer, and then it’ll go away in the wintertime.” Likewise, Anderson said some puzzles would be available during the colder months and taken down in spring. Most of the Christian section, which primarily stocks books, home decor, and related goods, will no longer be displayed, she said. However, Anderson said she will offer special orders, adding that there would be a three-week wait time and half of the amount would need to be paid in advance. Constructive Fun Toys was established in the early 2000s by Anderson’s mother, Dawna Parazoo, in a home-turned-business building on 6 th Street, said Anderson. After operating out of that space for a couple of years, it moved to its current spot on Main Street, where it has stayed until now and occupies more than 3,000 square feet. The shop mostly sells old-fashioned nostalgic toys, such as Rubik’s cubes and Hot Wheels, and board games and puzzles. They also stock inventory for some newer games, including Warhammer, said Anderson. When Parazoo chose to retire, Anderson took over the business in 2021. Anderson said the store is moving because the building is being sold. Nana’s Kiln Time had space to share, so the two decided to cohabitate, she said. “We’ll see how it goes. It’ll be different. It’ll be slightly unusual,” she said. Anderson added that exact hours are still being ironed out, but as of Jan. 28, plans are to have both businesses open at the same time for seven days a week. Anderson said she hopes the move and downsizing will help her refocus on what the community wants stocked rather than efforts to attract new customers. “Hopefully, all my current customers and regulars will be happy to see me still in town. I’m going to try and keep what I normally carry in as much as possible,” she said. Tammie Sheldon, owner of Nana’s Kiln Time, said she feels positive about the business change. “I feel like it’s going to help us both out,” said Sheldon. She elaborated that the past summer had been difficult, and hopes that Constructive Fun Toys will help with overhead. Nana’s Kiln Time is a “paint-your-own” pottery studio established in November 2025. It offers a variety of pieces that customers can paint, and those pieces are then fired in-house and available for pick up in five to seven days. Events it can host include birthday parties and team-building exercises. Walk-ins are welcome. Currently, the pottery studio is open Wednesday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., said Sheldon. 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 Plans for the Country’s 250th Anniversary in the (Fire) Works - 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 Plans for the Country’s 250th Anniversary in the (Fire) Works December 31, 2025 By: Tamara Lee Titus The nation is approaching 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Lori Matlock, Northeast Washington Fair/AG Trade Center manager, discussed how she is in the beginning stages of planning a big celebration on July 4, 2026, to commemorate this historic moment in American history. “I was approached by lifelong friend Dick Nichols, who asked me to put on a fireworks show for the 250 th 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. She continued, “After he left, I got to thinking that I needed to do more than shoot-off fireworks, as that can't happen until dark in July. So, it sent my little wheels to thinking of what should be included.” Discussing how this event will compare to ones in the past, Matlock said, “When I took my management job in 2007, I was given the task to put on the 4 th of July fireworks. I did try to have a ‘day of events’ a couple times, but most people are out on the water enjoying the summer. This one will start about 4 p.m. in the afternoon, with no real ‘start,’ unless people want to be part of the opening ceremony and the speakers. The fireworks and/or drone show will go off at about 9:30 p.m.” Matlock stated that she is a huge supporter of the military and those that protect and serve, and plans to include both military and law enforcement in the festivities. “I will be inviting all that have served in the military to come and be recognized, along with all those that protect and serve. I come from a background to serve. My dad is a retired World War II B-25 pilot, my oldest brother is a retired Lieutenant General, and my other brother is a retired county deputy and retired State Trooper. There were so many that fought and remain fighting for our freedom,” she said. According to Matlock, some of the goals of the event are “to give people not only a history lesson, but to give people a sense of how we got here, and why it is important to do everything we can to remain free.” Encouraging unity, she said, “We don't have to agree, but we need to be able to reach across the table and work back-to-back to see everything that may take this away.” Matlock said she hopes this event can bring people together to create solid communities, saying, “You never know with an event, you just open the doors and welcome people in, and it takes on a life of its own.” As far as the specifics of the plans, she shared, “I have several thoughts – I applied to the City of Colville for funds to pay for fireworks and some celebratory events. I have reached out to the Boy Scouts to put on the retiring of the flags, as I don't think a lot of people understand how that ceremony takes place. We will also have the folding of the flag (demonstration) and (talk about) what that means. Again, I don't think a lot of the public knows why this is important. Dick Nichols will speak on the history of the signing of the declaration.” Matlock confirmed that there will be a couple fellows parachuting in with the American Flag and she is working on a fly-by from Fairchild Airfare Base. She said that some people are putting together a barbershop quartet, and that the bell choir and the local orchestra are performing. “I have spoken to a few musicians that will be performing as well. Everything is preliminary of course, but the wheels are turning,” she related. Matlock said she would like to have sponsorships to offset the food vendors’ costs to the public. “For example, if your hot dog is normally $5, I would hope to have it free or maybe at $1. I have several ideas on vendors. I will have kids games and some adult games as well, with the help of those I have not yet asked.” Old-fashioned events will be highlighted, including: a three-legged race, corn hole tournament, pie-eating contest, tug-a-war, “and anything out of the box,” she said. Matlock said that she has reached out to Chewelah and Kettle Falls officials, and plans to get in touch with officials in Northport, Republic, and Pend Oreille County as well, about collaborating on a scavenger hunt between the towns. “I am hoping that people will get behind this event,” Matlock said. “I struggle with people taking advantage of thousands of people in town for the Rodeo or the Fair to put on sales or ‘Welcome to Town’ signs. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to put on a great face and coordinate.” For more information, contact Matlock at LMatlock@stevenscountywa.gov . 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

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

Out of the Past: 10/15/2025 - 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 Out of the Past: 10/15/2025 October 15, 2025 By: Stevens County Historical Museum Cover of the "Our Ladies of the Valley" book. Courtesy Stevens County Historical Society. 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. Colville’s first newspaper office was moved last Sunday. The little frame building, which in 1883 was erected on the corner, now occupied by Frank B. Goetter’s drug store, was in 1894 moved to the east end of the lot and stood there until Sunday, when it was hauled away on skids by Jack Miller. In its original location, it housed the Stevens County Miner , Colville’s first newspaper, established in 1885 by John B. Slater. 75 Years Ago— ARDEN—The Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company recently installed a pay phone at the Arden Store. One of Stevens County’s first born, Captain George F. Melville, 83, passed away in Tacoma on Sept. 2. He was born in 1867 at Old Fort Colville. Capt. Melville had engaged in steam boating for 45 years, returning in 1935 from his post with Black Ball. Verna Steele, Fruitland 4-H Club member, brought state championship honors to Stevens County this week when she was judged the best in the state in the home economics demonstration contest at the Yakima State Fair. 50 Years Ago— The Stevens County Historical Society re-elected its present officers at the annual meeting held Oct. 15, at the United Methodist Church. Officers elected were: Jim McMillan, president; Les Young, vice-president; Ida Dubois, secretary; Marian Garvey, treasurer; and Edith Lesser, board member. This year the Dominican Sisters of Spokane, formerly located at Kettle Falls, celebrated their 50 th anniversary of coming to the northwest in 1925. On Oct. 18, the sisters from Spokane, Colville, and Chewelah traveled to the former Convent of Our Lady of the Valley, now a youth ranch, to celebrate their 50 th Jubilee. 25 Years Ago— Local efforts to develop a plan for future water use in the Kettle River area received a $50,000 boost last week from Sen. Bob Morton, (R) Kettle Falls, and the State Department of Ecology. On Oct. 9, Morton presented the Ferry County Commissioners with a check from Ecology to begin the process of watershed planning in the Kettle River watershed. Next week is Homecoming Week at Colville High School. One of the week-long activities will be the annual open house for parents and students. This will be an opportunity to meet your child’s teachers, receive information on classes, and meet support staff. 10 Years Ago— CHEWELAH—Major plans will be unveiled by the 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort and Alpine Development Group at an open house Thursday at the Chewelah Civic Center. Resort officials will present plans and provide updates on the progress of the popular ski and snowboard resort’s new multi-year development. Kettle Falls resident Ray Stoddard recently traveled to Washington, D.C., with 89 other veterans as a part of Honor Flight. Ray served during the Korean War and was stationed in Alaska as a radio intercept operator. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Colville High School Knowledge Bowl Team Begins New Season - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Colville High School Knowledge Bowl Team Begins New Season November 26, 2025 By: Makenna Springman-Garland The Colville High School Knowledge Bowl team shows off their grades. Photo courtesy Tracey Delyea. 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. Coach Tracey Delyea stated, “I think that the competitions are going well this year. Our team is bigger than last year and very excited to participate. The question bank is more diverse and secure than it has been in previous years.” Co-coach Meredith McCullough confirmed the optimistic view on the season, stating, “The competitions have been a lot of fun and a great challenge for our students. We were really fortunate to be able to have a pre-season match against Republic and Curlew, and our teams got to meet other nearby competitors. Now that we're in official league play, our teams are learning how to adapt and work together to strengthen their teams as much as possible.” During this season, the coaches have expressed their appreciation for the hard working team spirit and friendly environment amongst the team members. Delyea said, “I think our teams present themselves with kindness and camaraderie. They encourage not only each other but other teams from different schools.” Although a competitive nature is important with any team or sport organization, the coaches said they believe it’s more important to create a healthy attitude towards being kind and having fun. McCullough added, “We have fun. Competition is important and all the students care deeply about performing well, but they also value spending time together while we travel. They have great attitudes and not only want to do well, but also want to enjoy every meet and experience. I think that really helps them go into the meets with focus and excitement, not just nerves about competing.” With a high stakes competition such as the Knowledge Bowl, the coaches said it’s important for the team to stay calm under pressure. McCullough said the Colville team has been working towards expanding their range of subject material and adapting to the new changes that have come with this season. “We're still adapting to changes in team rosters and honing in on specific subject areas we want to learn about in greater depth. What's most impressive to me is how reflective the teams are. They can tell you exactly what subjects they feel strongest about and which they want to study more. They ask for resources, for more practice, for time to talk strategy before going into a room together. They can only grow and improve with each meet.” The coaches expressed their confidence with the kick off of the season. Varsity student Hailey Collett echoed this optimism, adding, “We need to not second guess ourselves because more often than not we had the correct answer.” For those unfamiliar with the Knowledge Bowl has become a widespread competition throughout the state of Washington. According to Educational Service District 123, their website explains that the Knowledge Bowl “is an academic competition for high school students in Washington State where each of the nine ESDs in the state hold regional Knowledge Bowl competitions that determine which teams will advance to the state-level tournament. Knowledge Bowl is considered an "athletic event for the mind," testing high school teams on their knowledge in a variety of subjects through a fun and energetic competition that involves team building, competitive academic testing and interaction with students from across the state.” ( esd123.org “Knowledge Bowl”) 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

Out of the Past: 08/27/2025 - 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 Out of the Past: 08/27/2025 August 27, 2025 By: Stevens County Historical Museum Fred Draper Lumber Co. Photo courtesy Stevens County Historical Society. 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. Fred Draper has moved his office from Aladdin and hereafter will be found at the Fred Draper Lumber Co. office at the mill in Colville, formerly called the Colville Lumber Co. As the days become shorter, auditor McLean finds business improving in the marriage license line. 75 Years Ago— The swimming ban has been lifted at the Kettle Falls beach. Claude E. Grieder, superintendent of the Coulee Dam Recreation Area, said tests of the water did not show pollution enough to close the beach. Residents in the Kelly Hill area are going to be asked what they think about state and national affairs this week. The Washington Public Opinion Laboratory is going to be asking for opinions in that part of the county as part of a state-wide public opinion check. Colville may obtain federal aid for development of a complete lighting system at the city airport. NORTHPORT—Members of the Business and Professional Women’s Club presented the city council last Wednesday with a deed to a strip of land formerly owned by Mrs. Stella Lowry, across the river, to be used for an airport. 50 Years Ago— The Stevens County Historical Society this week opened their drive to build a museum and build a historical complex on the Keller property in northwest Colville. In their proposal, the society announced they have entered into a 99-year lease with the city of Colville on the Keller Trust property. The Northwestern Racing Association and its fans enjoyed an exciting day of racing Sunday at Panorama Speedway. In the main event it was Dave Weaver capturing top honors in his car No. 32. Second place went to Carey Rose in car No. 54. 25 Years Ago— Six Statesman-Examiner subscribers walked away with prizes from a drawing held last week for the annual Statesman-Examiner “Subscriber Appreciation” promotion. The Colville newspaper held a three-week customer appreciation promotion to “say thanks to their long-standing subscribers.” Second year Superintendent Mike Blair indicated that approximately 850 students are expected to walk through the doors on the opening day of school Sept. 6, in the Kettle Falls School District. Alan Trusler, president and co-founder of Aladdin Hearth Products, cut a ribbon on Aug. 25, in dedication and celebration of their new multi-million dollar facility in Colville. 10 Years Ago— Preparations for the third annual Festival of Neighbors in Kettle Falls are being finalized. One of the community’s major celebrations, it will be held at Happy Dell Park on Sept. 12. COLVILLE—The Stevens County Fire Benefit will be held Saturday at the Northeast Washington Fairgrounds in Colville. According to organizers, “100% of all donations will go to fire victim recipients.” 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

Learn how to volunteer your writing, photography, or community contributions with the Statesman-Examiner. Volunteer Contributions Help us cover local sports, community events, and neighborhood happenings. The Statesman-Examiner welcomes community members who want to contribute scores, photos, updates, and reports from local activities. Whether you’re a parent attending youth sports, a community volunteer, or someone who enjoys keeping neighbors informed, your contributions help us strengthen local coverage and share the moments that matter most to northeast Washington. Submit your information below, and our team will contact you when community contributions are needed. Contact Information First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Contribution Interests Contribution Interests Youth Sports Scores School Activities Community Events Local Clubs & Organizations Fundraisers / Benefits Breaking News in Your Area Other (please specify) Coverage Area Kettle Falls Colville Chewelah North Stevens County Central Stevens County South Stevens County Eastern Ferry County Other Area (please specify) How often are you available to contribute? Weekly A few times per month Occasionally / On-call Only for specific events Brief Background or Experience I understand that volunteer contributions are unpaid and may be used at the discretion of the editorial team. Submit

Gas Price Drops Lagging in Washington - 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 Gas Price Drops Lagging in Washington January 14, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen Gas prices are dropping nationally, but the trend is slower in Washington state, with the average cost of a gallon of gas at $3.84 as of Jan. 5, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), compared to the national average of $2.81 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. Analysts with GasBuddy, a website and app that tracks gas prices, attributed higher gasoline prices to Washington state’s cap-and-trade policy and the carbon tax. They said that Washington and California have some of the highest prices because refineries must purchase credits to operate. GasBuddy officials stated that they rely on user-reported data, while AAA officials said they use a combination of user reports and professional surveys. Through the Climate Commitment Act, passed in 2021, Washington legislators said they had the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by setting caps on pollution allowed in the state. Companies can purchase allowances through quarterly auctions, which began in 2023. According to the Washington Department of Ecology, the department is slowly lowering the number of available allowances, while the cap-and-trade program has raised $4.3 billion to date for the state. In California, officials said more than $33 billion has been raised since it began its program in 2012. Gas prices in Washington state have dropped 36 cents over the past month, according to AAA, which reports that gasoline was more than $4.12 a month ago. Refining capacity plays a role in gas prices in the western states. Hawaii has just one refinery, while the West Coast has limited refinery capacity due to shutdowns in California, GasBuddy analysts said. Locally, gas prices in northeast Washington are below the state average. As of Jan. 11, a gallon of gas costs $3.44 in Colville and $3.19 in Chewelah. 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

Liberty Josephine Ringer — a community announcement published by the Statesman-Examiner serving 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 Births Liberty Josephine Ringer Liberty Josephine Ringer was born on Nov. 28, 2025, to parents Sadie and Zach Ringer of Colville, Wash. She weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces at birth. Her maternal grandparents are Daryl and Arlene Grimbly of Plevna, Mont. Her paternal grandparents are Wade and Eva Ringer of Los Ángeles, Chile, South America. Her maternal great-grandparents are Ken and Edna Corne of Washington and Dick and Joyce Grimbly of Washington. Her paternal great-grandparents are Gene and Dorothy Ringer of Colville, Wash. and Rose Mary Barlow of Utah. Previous Next 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