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Colville Warming Center Prepares for Winter's Chill - 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 Warming Center Prepares for Winter's Chill October 8, 2025 By: Meredith Carroll American Legion Hall, host of Warming Center Front. Photo courtesy of Andrea Gjendem. 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 6 th Ave. in Colville, is scheduled to open on Nov. 1. “The Colville Community Warming Center was originally funded entirely by community volunteers and donations,” said Andrea Gjendem, the center’s program director. Among other things, she coordinates the scheduling and orientation for the center’s volunteers. “The Warming Center exists because of volunteers,” Gjendem said. “Recently, because of additional funding sources, we’ve been able to offer a stipend to those who help out. We have several people who volunteer who used to be homeless and stay at the Warming Center.” While the Warming Center plans to open its doors Nov. 1, it may open sooner if temperatures go below freezing before then. “We need volunteers to work three different 5.5 hour shifts. The need is always there.” Gjendem said she is planning to host orientations on Oct. 10 and 11.. “The orientation is so that we can get to know our volunteers, to get a background check completed, and to complete paperwork,” she explained. “It’s also for some training. Volunteers will learn how to check people in, help them to settle in and get warm.” Guests at the Warming Center are provided with a bunk bed and have access to showers, television, and internet service, Gjendem said.“We just hope that everybody stays warm.” For more information, call 509-684-8480. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

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

Out of the Past: 01/21/2026 - 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: 01/21/2026 January 21, 2026 By: Stevens County Historical Museum The Hofstetter Building sat on the corner of Main and Birch from 1883 to 1917. Photo courtesy Stevens County Historical Society. 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. Thomas L. Savage, an early merchant of three towns in Stevens County, died in Honolulu, Hawaii, Jan. 20 at the age of 62 years. He became a merchant in Colville in 1886, in Kettle Falls in 1890, and was Northport’s first merchant in 1892. 75 Years Ago— Everyone in Stevens County should have received a defense questionnaire by now. County commissioners began mailing the forms last week and the final batch was expected in the mail by Thursday. The final mailing was made to voters in Colville. Fred Wilson, county defense coordinator, urged persons in the county to fill out the forms promptly. “We’re in no position to urge or coax voters to fill out the forms. It’s strictly voluntary. But we can’t do anything further with defense plans until we receive a greater percentage of the needed information.” Snow removal has cost county taxpayers an estimated $15,000 in the last two weeks. 50 Years Ago— Northwest Alloys, Inc., this week made the first tap of ferro-silicon from its 24,000 ton a year ferro-silicon furnace. “Stevens County mines are in a dormant state right now, but exploration in this area has been intense,” Ted Liovingston, state geologist with the Department of Natural Resources from Olympia, told Colville Chamber of Commerce members on Tuesday. Stevens County commissioners approved a pre-application for a government grant for $63,535 to remodel the former Valley View Infirmary on Monday. Dave LaDuke of Fogle Motor Co., Inc., has recently joined the sales force as their new and used car salesman. 25 Years Ago— CHEWELAH—Jenkins High School junior Katie Kinyon is the new Washington State Junior Miss. Miss Kinyon was crowned Saturday night in Pullman’s Gladish Community Center. She was among 35 high school juniors, including Colville Jr. Miss Stephanie Oswin, who competed for the coveted title. Miss Kinyon will be featured in a Statesman-Examiner story in next week’s edition. The tapping, crafting and simmering going on around Onion Creek betrays it: It’s time for the sixth annual Onion Creek Outhouse Race and second annual Chili Cookoff. Racers, spectators, cooks and tasters are all invited. Outgoing Colville Fire Chief Rick Naff handed over the chief’s hat to incoming fire chief Scott Carter this week. Naff has served as fire chief for nearly eight years. 10 Years Ago— COLVILLE—For Providence Northeast Washington Medical Group patients who have been frustrated by an inability to schedule timely appointments, the medical purveyor has some good news. Providence Northeast Washington Medical Group said it is now able to provide same day appointments at its main clinic in Colville. 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

Made Here; Three-Dimensional Artist Sonja Metzler - 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 Made Here; Three-Dimensional Artist Sonja Metzler January 28, 2026 By: Wayne Gorst Sonja Metzler’s studio and three-dimensional art. Photo courtesy Wayne Gorst. This recurring feature highlights the artists, makers and creative spaces that help define our community. Each installment spotlights local talent, and readers are encouraged to submit nominations for artists or arts organizations to be featured to editor@statesmanexaminer.com or to Statesman-Examiner, 220 S. Main St., Colville, WA 99114. 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. Following a stint in commercial art on South Africa’s east coast, she took up engineering drafting, which brought her to the Inland Northwest via Anchorage, Alaska, and Bellingham, Wash., eventually settling near Colville with her husband and their horses. Discussing why she was drawn to sculpture, Metzler said, “I always seemed to gravitate more toward a ball of clay than a pencil. Although I casually enjoy several mediums, I love the space taken up by three-dimensional art. I love that I can create my art from every angle; and clay serves that purpose well.” With a nudge from another local sculptor, Jerry McKellar, Metzler began showing – and selling – her work at the Safari Club International (SCI) show in Las Vegas. Other major shows ensued, and the Metzlers soon found themselves rubbing elbows with major artists at shows from San Diego to Nashville. Closer to home, Metzler said her growing reputation led to a significant commission – Mary, Joseph, and their donkey on their sojourn to Bethlehem. Commissioned by a local Catholic church, the three bronze figures welcome visitors to the small courtyard near the entrance to the house of worship. The piece was originally conceived as a life-sized statue, something Metzler said she had longed to apply her talents to, using the experience to expand her artistic skills and burgeoning catalog of work. However, the turmoil and restrictions brought on by COVID-19 extended the timeframe and reduced the scale of the project to a one-quarter size statue, known in the sculpting world as a “maquette,” according to Metzler. Typically, sculptors, like painters, limit the number of copies, or in the case of a sculpture “editions,” of their work to retain and enhance the value of each piece, Metzler said. She added that the agreement with the church allowed the artist to retain the rights to the molds, conferring the potential for several more editions of Mary, Joseph, and the donkey. Metzler said creating a bronze sculpture is not just an artistic endeavor, although that’s where it all begins. There are numerous steps, processes, and people between the original ball of clay and the final, weighty bronze. It all begins with an idea and a ball of oil-based clay, Metzler explained. Depending on how large or complex the finished piece will be, the artist may start with a flexible metal armature that will provide support and stability for a heavy or complex clay figure built upon it. When the clay is meticulously shaped and formed with every fine detail crafted into place, the clay rendition becomes the master. From there, Metzler said, the piece goes to a bronze casting foundry; she said she works with one of the two in Joseph, Ore. Foundry technicians then carefully create a flexible rubber mold over the clay, brushing on multiple, thin layers until they’ve built up a flexible rubber skin that captures every detail, as created by the clay master. Metzler said a rigid outer shell of fiberglass or plaster is then added to hold the rubber in the exact shape of the original and protect the mold. Removing the mold from the clay, the mold is then filled with wax to create a perfect replica of the original. According to Metzler, the new wax original is then used to create yet another mold capable of withstanding the final molten bronze pour. The last step before that final “negative” mold is ready is the lost wax casting process, whereby the mold is heated to around 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit to melt out all the wax and ready the mold for the final molten bronze pour. Often, the original clay piece must be cut into smaller, castable sizes and subsequently put back together in the final bronze, Metzler said, requiring meticulous effort by skilled technicians and artisans at the foundry. When the piece is once again whole and declared ready by both the artist and the technicians, it moves on to the patina stage where another dedicated artist uses just the right amount of heat, combined with the proper chemicals, to bring about the various shades of luster that define the perfect bronze. It was the Nashville SCI show where Metzler said she got her wish; she was commissioned to complete a life-size sculpture of Jerry Lee Lewis playing on his baby grand piano. She said a private corporation had begun a real estate development project in the town of Southaven, Miss., just south of Memphis, Tenn., near the life-long home of Lewis whom they wanted to honor with a life-size bronze. Brian Hill, the corporate CEO, told Metzler, after looking over the work of numerous bronze sculptors, that he liked her style the best and asked if she would be interested in the project. “You had me at life-sized,” she had replied, “and then when I heard it was Jerry Lee Lewis, I was completely captivated.” The project occupied nearly a year-and-a-half of planning, researching, sculpting, and, eventually, installing the finished bronze, complete with an unveiling with JLewis’ widow, Judith Lewis, in attendance, Metzler said. During the research phase of the project, Metzler said she asked Judith Lewis if there was anything specific she would like included. In reply she got pictures of two rings Jerry Lee Lewis wore: one was a diamond studded baby grand piano and the other was the wedding ring Judith Lewis had given him. In all her pieces, just as she did with Lewis’ rings, Metzler said she does extensive research to ensure every detail is included and correct. Her work includes a commission for an accurate representation of an 1880s style bison hunt. Three hunters, their wagon, camp, guns, and all accoutrements are authentically reproduced at scale. A small group of bison graze warily in the distance. When the clay rendition has been perfected and they return from the foundry, their pastures and hunting grounds will be at the top of a conference table somewhere in Arizona, Metzler said. More information can be found at sonjametzler.com . 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

Bulldogs Take Down the Hornet’s Nest - 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 Bulldogs Take Down the Hornet’s Nest December 10, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen Behind the steady scoring of standout Wyn Edwards, the Kettle Falls girls basketball team swatted down the Oroville Hornets to improve their record to 2-1, on Friday, Dec. 5. Edwards poured in 21 points to lead the Bulldogs to a convincing 53-25 nonleague road win at Oroville. Kettle Falls steadily pulled away each quarter, outscoring the Hornets 29-10 after halftime. Abby Ocasio added 14 points while Kelly chipped in 10 points as Kettle Falls bounced back from its first loss of the season earlier in the week. The Bulldogs’ defense clamped down on the Hornets, holding them to just one 3-pointer and six total second-half points. Kettle Falls struggled to maintain a fast start in a 49-36 loss to unbeaten Republic at home on Dec. 2. The Bulldogs led 14-8 after the first quarter, but foul trouble and a third-quarter surge from the Tigers swung momentum. Edwards kept Kettle Falls in the game with 20 points and a pair of 3-pointers, while teammate Hope Shurrum also hit two from long range. But Republic’s Ember Berndt was too much to handle inside, finishing with 22 points to push the Tigers to 2-0. The Lady Bulldogs faced Tonasket on Tuesday, Dec. 9; results were not available at press time. They are set to host Northwest Christian on Friday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Goodwill Moves to Newer, Bigger Location - 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 Goodwill Moves to Newer, Bigger Location November 19, 2025 By: Meredith Carroll Exterior of the new Goodwill location. Photo courtesy of Meredith Carroll. Goodwill of Colville is scheduled to open at its new location on Friday, Nov. 21. Located at the site of the now-closed Clark’s All Sports, the new space will host both the Goodwill Industries retail store as well as Goodwill Workforce and Family Services. According to officials, the grand opening festivities are set to begin with a countdown to 9 a.m., along with coffee, hot chocolate, and breakfast goodies, followed by pictures with Sasquatch. The event will also include prizes, raffles, temporary tattoos, and books. People who attend will be eligible to win $100 Goodwill gift cards, officials said. During the day, tours will be offered to community partners, hosted by Goodwill CEO and president Clark Brekke, who has been with the company for over 30 years. “At Goodwill, we like to make a grand opening a celebration, because it takes a lot of work to get to this point,” said Heather Alexander, Goodwill’s vice president of marketing, communications, and learning. “Goodwill has been a part of the Colville community since 1954,” said Alexander, who has been with Goodwill for 13 years and works out of the main office in Spokane. “The store’s first location was at 17 W. Astor St. In 1970, the retail store moved to its current location on 168 N. Main Street.” The Workforce and Family Services office opened at 153 S. Oak. Interior of Goodwill building. Photo courtesy of Meredith Carroll. Despite a facelift in 1977, the needs of Colville outgrew the Goodwill facilities in place. “We have been looking for new locations for quite a while,” Alexander said. “We had outgrown the current locations and wanted to find a site where we could combine the store and the local social services offices. “The new location boasts a total of approximately 18,860 square feet,” said Alexander. “This means that we have more than three times the square footage of the other location. We have a much larger space to benefit the community and the employees. A lot of people need support. The whole reason we exist is to give people a hand up, by selling goods in order to raise funds for services.” She continued, “Goodwill accepts donations and operates the retail store to fund programs. We offer payee services, which means that we assist people who are unable to manage their finances. We help people on SSI (Supplemental Security Income), disability, SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), etc., to establish income, pay their bills, and put money into savings. Our current representative is based in Spokane and is only able to serve clients by phone or online. With the new location, we will be able to have a rep here in Colville.” According to Alexander, Goodwill also provides support for veterans’ families. “We operate by a housing first model, meaning that we make sure that the vets stay housed. Goodwill provides rental assistance, help with deposits, and wraparound services. Now that we have the new location, we will be able to have local case managers and housing specialists,” she said. “Outreach staff will be here for the grand opening,” said Alexander. “We will also have veterans’ staff to meet with folks. Last year, the Colville Goodwill served about 20 veterans.” The new facility offers an expansive break room, bathrooms, and manager offices, all in one area. “It’s nice to have a big space for employees to have a break. They work hard and often get dirty, and they deserve a nice space,” said Alexander. She said there will be both an indoor and a covered outdoor break area for Goodwill employees. Alexander added that the production area is upgrading to a second building, complete with a sorting station and donor services area. Where the production workers previously had to use storage pods for overflow, there is now ample room for donations. People wishing to make donations will drive up to the spacious unloading area. “Donors will no longer have to worry about their cars being bumped by people turning the corner,” said Alexander. The Workforce and Family Services office will have a separate location, complete with offices, cubicles, and a conference room. “When Clark’s announced that they were closing, we were really excited,” Alexander said. “We looked at the space, and we were excited to work with Ray Clark, who sold the entire property.” All of the Colville Goodwill employees will be moving to the new location. “We’re also interviewing for an additional five staff members to join our team,” said Alexander. The income generated from sales in 2024 has served 876 people in employment programs, 2,053 people enrolled in basic services, 1,134 people in payee services, 2,436 people in digital skills and training programs, and 2,050 people in housing programs (2024 Impact Report, Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest). Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest covers eastern Washington and north Idaho, with 15 locations over 23 counties. Throughout the Goodwill location hang the pictures of local people whose lives have been improved through determination and some help from Goodwill. “One of my favorite stories is that of Wes Sawyer,” said Alexander, pointing to a photo. “Wes came to Goodwill through the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. He had been in jail, and he had a heart condition. He came to Goodwill for a work assessment, unsure if he could work due to his health. When he learned that he could, he got a job in production. He moved his way up to a lead. He said that his life had changed, that he’s gone from living in a shed to having the keys to the store. Over the next couple of years, he moved on to a different job, started a family, and built a home. He’s gone from someone nobody could trust to helping others.” “We at Goodwill get to impact people who come to us in some of the most difficult times of their lives. People are often discounted because of disabilities or a criminal background, or homelessness. It’s important for the community to know that we are here and have these services. We have been here for a long time, and we are not for profit.” Goodwill’s location on N. Main St. officially closed on Monday, Nov. 17.Goodwill of Colville will reopen at their new location, 557 S. Main Street in Colville, the site of the former Clark’s All Sports, on Friday, Nov. 21, at 9 a.m. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Chewelah Wrestlers Finish Strong at M2 Mallet - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Chewelah Wrestlers Finish Strong at M2 Mallet December 24, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen The Chewelah wrestling team dropped a home dual to Northwest Christian before turning in a strong performance at the M2 Mallet tournament on Dec. 20. In their duel against Northwest Christian, the Cougars fell 47-22 but got an impressive performance from Titan Tapia at 157 pounds, who earned a 15-4 major decision over Noah Stegman. Despite the dual setback, Chewelah rebounded at the M2 Mallet tournament in Spokane with multiple podium finishes against a deep field. Tapia turned in another impressive run to place second. He recorded two pins and a major decision on his way to the championship bout before falling to an undefeated opponent in the finals. Tapia scored 25 team points for Chewelah. Katzer followed with a strong third-place finish at 165 pounds. After a semifinal loss, Katzer battled back through the consolation bracket with two close decision wins to secure third place and add 18.5 team points. At 106 pounds, Taseyn Stauffer placed sixth after picking up a pin in the quarterfinals and fighting through the consolation rounds to score nine team points. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Local Salon Moves to New Location - 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 Salon Moves to New Location November 5, 2025 By: Meredith Carroll Owner Karen Wisner. Photo courtesy of Wisner. Karen Wisner, owner of A Kut Above hair salon, has moved locations and continues to style hair and provide mani-pedis after 38 years in the industry. “I started at my new location the first week of October,” said Wisner. “I needed a change, less stress in my life. A Kut Above is my name, so I took that with me and left everything else for the other girls.” Wisner stated that the salon, Bare Beauty, took over her previous location. “I didn’t necessarily sell the business. Rather, I gave the business to them,” Wisner said. A Kut Above provides services such as haircuts, manicures, and pedicures. “I’m also an esthetician, so I’m looking into getting a GLP-1 machine to tighten skin up,” Wisner said.Wisner said she spent her entire career at the old location before deciding to try something different. “I want a little less stress for myself, and I want to be able to spend more time with [my husband] Steve. Since he sold the movie theater, I’ve been wanting to spend more time with him. We just got back from a vacation with my parents to Booth Bay Harbor in Maine.” Wisner said she is accepting new clients. “I’ve been doing this for 38 years, and I have a big, faithful client base. I will take new clients depending on if I have the time. Since Colville is a small town, I need to be versatile,” adding that she does not anticipate retiring soon. Wisner said she operates the business space with Carla Schultz, a cosmetologist, and Becky Droter, an esthetician. “I’m with them, but we’re all independent,” she said. Wisner said she has stayed in the beauty business for so long because she loves the creativity of hair, nails, toes. But more than that, “I love making people feel beautiful. It makes me happy doing this. When my clients leave, they feel beautiful. I love what I’m doing.” The slower pace of the A Kut Above’s new location allows Wisner more time to spend with customers. “It’s a more relaxed atmosphere, and I don’t feel like I’m running,” she said. “I want people to know that I’m still working and would love for them to come to my new spot and hang.” The new location of A Kut Above is 530 S. Main St. in Colville, in the same building as Farmers’ Insurance. 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

New Year, New Laws Taking Effect on Jan. 1 - 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 New Year, New Laws Taking Effect on Jan. 1 December 31, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen Several new Washington state laws will take effect on Jan. 1, bringing changes for residents and businesses, according to state officials. Passed by the Washington State Legislature in 2025, these laws will increase the minimum wage, modify paid family/medical leave, and impose a higher nicotine tax. 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.Cities such as Seattle, Bellingham, Burien, Everett, Renton, SeaTac and Tukwila all have higher minimum wages than the state, according to Labor & Industries officials.Washington employers will also need to pay overtime-exempt workers 2.25 times the minimum wage, state officials said; this can total to more than $80,000 per year. This year, the pay for an exempt employee was $69,305 for small businesses and $77,969 for larger businesses. According to the legislation, overtime exempt pay minimums will rise to $93,392 in 2028.For those aged 14-and-15 year-old, minimum wage is set to rise to $14.56 in 2026. PAID FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE The new law says employers with 25 or more employees will be required to provide job protection for eligible employees taking Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML), based on 180 calendar days of employment, with no minimum hours worked required. The PFML premium will rise to 1.13% in 2026. CHILD SUPPORT AND FAMILY LAST Support guidelines for child support will now rise above the previous limit of $12,000 in combined monthly net income, according to the legislation passed. The new support guidelines will cover incomes up to $50,000 per month combined, with additional guidance for higher-income families. Still, the law allows for judicial discretion for income above the old limit.A previous statutory self-support reserve has been raised from 125% to 180% of the federal poverty line. According to the law, this means parents cannot be ordered to pay amounts that would leave them below this income line – except in certain classes. If a low-income parent's income goes below this amount, their child support minimum would be $50 per child, per month. Higher-income parents may be ordered to provide support of up to 45% of their net income. VICTIMS’ RIGHTS PROTECTIONS Washington has updated and reinforced victims’ rights protections under state law, outlining clear requirements to ensure victims, survivors, and witnesses are informed, protected, and supported throughout criminal and civil court proceedings. According to state officials, the law requires that victims receive a written summary of their rights at the time a crime is reported, including contact information for local victim and witness assistance programs, and mandates that law enforcement and prosecutors provide timely updates on key case developments such as charges filed and case outcomes, particularly in violent, domestic violence, and sex offense cases. The statute also strengthens protections and participation rights for victims, including access to safety information and support services, secure waiting areas during court proceedings, and the ability to attend hearings in person or remotely. Victims retain the right to submit victim impact statements for sentencing and have them included in the official court record. In addition, the law affirms victims’ ability to seek restitution in felony cases even when an offender is incarcerated, while requiring procedural assistance such as advance notice of court dates and support with employers to reduce lost wages tied to court appearances. NICOTINE TAX According to the new law, Washington state will apply a 95% tax rate for all nicotine and tobacco products. This means a nicotine product that cost $7 in 2025 will now cost $15 once sales tax and excise tax are also added. Officials said retailers and distributors will be required to report inventory of affected nicotine products on their first tax return. This includes synthetic nicotine, vapes, e-cigs and nicotine pouches. 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 Interact Club Champions Peacebuilding with New Peace Pole Installation - 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 Interact Club Champions Peacebuilding with New Peace Pole Installation September 17, 2025 By: Emma Lee Conyer Colville High School’s Interact Club’s meeting on Sept. 12 included the installation of a peace pole in front of the school. The group thanked school staff, Rotary Club leaders, and community members for their support and celebrated the installation with cake. 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. Cobos said that it took time to receive the pole and the club was unable to install the pole last school year, so they decided to install it at the beginning of the 2025-26 year. According to May Peace Prevail On Earth International, the founders of the Peace Pole Project, peace poles serve as symbols of hope and global unity, with more than 200,000 installed worldwide. To represent the Colville High School community, the Interact club chose English, Spanish, Russian and Japanese. “Jay Shepperd and Janey Howe from Rotary District 5080 generously donated $300 for the pole,” said Cobos. According to the Rotary District 5080 website, “In May 2022, the club partnered with the Colville Rotary Club to plant and dedicate a Peace Pole at the District 5080 Annual Conference in Colville,” making this the second Peace Pole to be placed in Colville. Continuing the Rotary International Club’s tradition of “paying it forward,” the Colville Interact Club “plans to gift another peace pole, likely to Sandpoint Interact Clubs,” stated Cobos. 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 Offense Finds Its Rhythm Against Deer Park - 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 Offense Finds Its Rhythm Against Deer Park December 24, 2025 By: Brandon Hansen Jet Bateman goes up for a basket against Deer Park. Photo by Brandon Hansen. Colville boys and girls each split a pair of games. Colville girls bounce back with road win at Tonasket. Although Deer Park is in the 2A league, that didn’t stop Colville from putting on a big offensive show in their match last week. Colville opened the week with a dominant 67-31 victory over Deer Park on Dec. 16, at home. The Crimson Hawks had a five-point lead in the first quarter and then went on a 21-5 run before halftime. They continued to pour it on, and the Stags were outpaced 24-7 to begin the second half. Jet Bateman led Colville with 17 points, while Parker Darnold added 14. Colville’s outside shooting proved to be a major difference, as the Crimson Hawks connected on 12 3-pointers in the win. Darnold and Bateman each hit multiple shots from beyond the arc. Brock Benson added 10 points while Cooper Haynes and Quentin Huggins had nine points apiece. On Dec. 19, Colville traveled to Tonasket and came up short in a 49-36 loss. The Crimson Hawks struggled to find that same consistency on offense, losing their fourth game of the year. The Colville boys team will hang up its shoes for a few days and be back in action on Dec. 30, hosting Northport in a Stevens County showdown at 10:30 a.m. The Colville girls basketball team responded to an earlier setback with a strong road performance, defeating Tonasket 53-35 on Dec. 19, to improve to 4-3 overall. The Crimson Hawks’ 18-point victory was a bolstering bounce-back performance after a loss earlier in the week. The Lady Hawks fell 56-40 at home to Bonners Ferry in another nonleague contest on Dec. 16. Bonners Ferry’s Taren Bateman scored 38 points, including six 3-pointers, to lead the Badgers to the win. Andee Kroiss paced Colville with 14 points, while the Crimson Hawks struggled from beyond the arc, finishing without a made 3-pointer. Despite the loss, Colville regrouped quickly and found success on the road, which is important as they have a winning record and positive momentum as league play approaches. After Christmas, the Lady Crimson Hawks will head to Colfax on Dec. 29 to play at 1:30 p.m. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES

Inchelium Boys Basketball Continues Hot Streak - local reporting from the Statesman-Examiner serving Colville, Stevens County, and Northeast Washington. LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES Inchelium Boys Basketball Continues Hot Streak January 21, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen Inchelium Boys Win 10 Consecutive Games The Inchelium boys basketball team continued its surge through Northeast 1B North play last week, extending its winning streak to 10 games with three more victories, including a pair of league wins at home and a road win at Curlew. 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. The Hornets picked up a key 60-51 home win the previous night over league contender Republic. After trailing 16-11 at the end of the first quarter, Inchelium responded with a strong second period and pulled away late with a 22-point fourth quarter. Stensgar scored 20 points to lead the Hornets, while Perez added 15 points. The week began Jan. 13, with a narrow 57-56 home win over Cusick Panthers. Stensgar delivered a dominant performance with 28 points as Inchelium held off Cusick in a tight contest. Perez added 12 points. Cusick was led by Daniel Lyons, who scored 32 points. With the three wins, Inchelium improved to 13-3 overall and 8-2 in Northeast 1B North play. The league standings tightened up with Northport losing to Republic, meaning that the Hornets entered the week in second place. Results from the Hornets matchup against Nespelem on Tuesday, Jan. 20 were not available as of press time. Inchelium is scheduled to host Northport on Friday, Jan. 23, at 7:30 p.m., followed by a game at Hunters on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 6 p.m. Inchelium Girls Drop Two, Win One The Inchelium girls basketball team went 1-2 in Northeast 1B North play last week, picking up a strong home win before dropping close contests to league leaders Republic and Curlew. The Inchelium Hornets closed the week Saturday, Jan. 17, with a 56-41 road loss to the Cougars. Curlew (12-4 overall, 7-3 league) built a 27-17 halftime lead and pulled away in the fourth quarter. Annika Baker scored a game-high 25 points for the Cougars. Inchelium (9-6, 5-5) was led by Ronni Seymour, who poured in 28 points and knocked down eight 3-pointers. Marianna Agapith added seven points. The Hornets also came up just short Friday night at home, falling 43-37 to the unbeaten Republic Tigers on Jan. 16. Inchelium earned an impressive 69-50 home victory over the Cusick Panthers on Jan. 13. Seymour led the way with 24 points, including six 3-pointers, while Agapith added 22 points as the Hornets pulled away after halftime. Inchelium outscored Cusick 43-33 in the second half to secure the league win. Inchelium is set to host Northport on Friday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m., then play at Hunters on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 4:30 p.m. Previous Article Next Article LOCAL NEWS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FARM & RANCH GREAT OUTDOORS PROFILES OUT OF THE PAST LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS EVENTS CALENDAR OBITUARIES