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Freelance writing, photography, and journalism opportunities with the Statesman-Examiner serving Stevens County. Freelance Opportunities Join our network of local writers, photographers, and contributors. The Statesman-Examiner is always looking for passionate, community-minded individuals interested in contributing to our local coverage. Whether you’re an experienced journalist, an emerging writer, or a photographer with an eye for storytelling, we welcome your interest in helping us share the stories that matter to northeast Washington. Submit your information below, and our editorial team will reach out when freelance opportunities become available. Contact Information First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Professional Details Area(s) of Expertise* News & Community Government Business Sports Coverage Arts & Entertainment Photography Opinion / Columns Other (please specify) Short Bio or Background* Upload Samples or Portfolio Upload File Accepts: .pdf, .docx, .jpg, .png (Limit 3 files) Link to Online Portfolio or Website Availability Are you available for on-call assignments?* Yes No Preferred Coverage Area* Kettle Falls Colville Chewelah North Stevens County Central Stevens County South Stevens County Eastern Ferry County Other Areas I understand that freelance opportunities are offered on an as-needed basis and may be project-based or seasonal. Submit

Place a print or digital ad with the Statesman-Examiner to reach readers across Stevens County. Advertise with Us Place an Ad with the Statesman-Examiner Advertising in the Statesman-Examiner is the best way to reach Colville and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re promoting a business, announcing an event, or selling something, we make it easy to get your message in front of engaged readers, both in print and online. Classified Ads Text-based ads for community items such as For Sale, Jobs, Real Estate, Pets, Services, and more. Place a Classified Ad Business Directory Listings Affordable recurring ads that keep your business visible in our Business Directory section. Add My Business Listing Display Ads Custom-designed ads of various sizes featured throughout the print edition and online. Requires coordination with our advertising team for sizes, pricing, and artwork. Request Display Ad Info Featured Event Featured Events receive premium placement on the Statesman-Examiner website, helping your event stand out to thousands of local readers. Submit an Event Legal Notices Public/legal announcements such as probate, zoning, foreclosures, and government notices. Submit a Legal Notice

John Matthew Wesley Johnson — 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 John Matthew Wesley Johnson John Matthew Wesley Johnson was born on June 23, 2025, to parents Jessica and Matthew Johnson of Colville, Wash. He weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces at birth. He has one sister, Shaylee, 4. His maternal grandfather is Mike Chappulz of Colville, Wash., and his paternal grandmother is Cheryl Johnson of Colville, Wash. 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

Out of the Past: 09/03/2025 - 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: 09/03/2025 September 3, 2025 By: Stevens County Historical Museum Water wheel on the Charles Johnson farm, Rice, Wash. in the 1880s. Photo courtesy Stevens County Historical Society. 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. They measured 11 ½ inches in circumference and weighed 15 ounces each. Grocery savings: Carnation milk, tall can 10 cents; cocoa, 3 lbs., 23 cents; Kalohem soap, 4 cakes, 23 cents; Log Cabin flour, 49 pounds, $2.20; Hills coffee, 1 lb., 56 cents; two-lip jar rubbers, 3 dozen, 23 cents. IT’S NOT EASY: to apologize, to begin over, to admit error, to be unselfish, to take advice, to be charitable, to be considerate, to keep on trying, to think and then act, to profit by mistakes, to forgive and forget, to shoulder a deserved blame – BUT IT ALWAYS PAYS! 75 Years Ago— Six novels by Zane Grey were among the new volumes added to the city library shelves within the past month. The well-known westerns were among the 43 adult and juvenile volumes placed for circulation. NORTHPORT—Fire chief Les Clark reports that all arrangements have been completed for the annual firemen’s barbecue on Labor Day at Dosser’s Resort at Deep Lake. A call for unity of all American Indians and a plea for greater economic freedom was issued by Frank George, Colville Tribal Relations Officer, at the opening session of the annual convention of the National Congress of American Indians at Bellingham, on Monday. 50 Years Ago— Ground will be broken soon for the new $38,500 McDowell Museum at the Keller property in Colville, Phil Sax, fund raising chairman for the Stevens County Historical Society, said this week. Miss Susan Ray, noted country-western artist, will be the featured attraction during Saturday’s grandstand show at the Northeast Washington Fair in Colville. Unofficial Colville School District enrollment totals show that a total of 1,742 students attended opening day classes in Colville Public Schools in kindergarten through grade 12, according to figures released by school superintendent Don Munson. 25 Years Ago— The establishment of Aebly Road as a county road has finally been completed. Efforts to do that date back to 1914, according to Stevens County records. The Stevens County Library District Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on the matter of the petitions to abolish the Stevens County Library District. In a meeting organized by the man whose grandson survived a cougar attack last August, more than 80 northeastern Washington citizens gathered to express their desire to adopt cougar hunting rules that would improve public safety in rural areas. 10 Years Ago— Returning for another year of supporting local veterans and their dependents will be the annual Tri-County Veterans Stand Down. The Stand Down will be held at the Northeast Washington Fairgrounds on Saturday. Individuals are encouraged to protect themselves from identity theft by safely eliminating sensitive documents they no longer need during an upcoming free “Shred Day.” The popular event, which will make stops in Kettle Falls, Colville, and Chewelah, will be held at three American West Bank locations in those communities. 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

Stevens County Commissioners Heated Over Veteran Relief Policy - 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 Stevens County Commissioners Heated Over Veteran Relief Policy November 12, 2025 By: Cami Krema The Stevens County Board of County Commissioners met on Nov. 7. 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. According to the state legislature, a veterans relief fund policy is a set of guidelines for providing short-term financial assistance to eligible veterans and their families who are experiencing a financial crisis. These policies outline eligibility requirements, the types of expenses that can be covered (such as rent, utilities, and medical or vehicle costs), and the limitations on the amount of aid available. The primary purpose is to offer temporary support to help a veteran regain financial stability, not to provide long-term or automatic entitlements. The commissioners had previously met on Oct. 29, and Nov. 6, to review the new policy draft. Stevens County auditor Lori Larsen has also had a role in drafting the new policy. During the meeting she stated that she removed references to Stevens County Veteran Service Office, made changes to the policy’s formatting, and eliminated sections that called for coordination between Veteran Service Office and other agencies. The commissioners also emphasized the need for consistency, specifically in terms of how veterans receive funding, indicating that some veterans in the past have been treated as more important than others. Elizabeth Snell with the Veteran Advisory Board gave a statement to the commissioners regarding how veterans will be impacted by changes to the VRF. Snell said she believes that the policy should offer an alternative decider because the auditor’s office may have a conflict of interest when deciding funding. Snell then stated concerns over the length of time it could take for veterans to provide proof of income, saying it could take up to six months. She also shared concerns over privacy, stating that confidential health information could become easily accessible through the VRF application. Veteran Donna Meyer, who is also involved with American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, spoke to the commissioners and recommended that a clause be added around how big the VRF balance could get and when excess money would be returned to taxpayers. Meyer said she felt dismissed after bringing up her concerns; attendee Nancy Cross said commissioner Young indicated that Meyer’s concerns “didn’t need to be addressed.” Meyer said, “The RCW (Revised Code of Washington) states that some of that money needs to be returned to the taxpayers and the RCW unfortunately doesn't direct how to return it or at what percentage of the VRF.” She added, “[The commissioners] didn't want our input at this point and Lori (Larsen) never really wanted our input.” Steven Cross, a veteran and member of the Veteran Advisory Board, said, “The fact that [the county commissioners] didn't trust members of the Veterans Advisory Board to help veterans with this policy and funds, that kind of rubbed me wrong.” Meyer, Steven Cross and Nancy Cross all stated that they were given less than 15 minutes before the meeting to review the new VRF policy, and that the commissioners did not review the document in its entirety before voting on its approval. After public comments were given, commissioner Greg Young motioned to approve the VRF policy with the changes proposed by Larson. Commissioner Mark Burrows opposed the motion, stating that he thought they would review the VRF “line by line with the Veteran Advisory Board.” He said that the policy felt rushed and advised that the commissioners take their time to approve the new policy, especially considering that “the current system still works.” Burrows said, “A veteran that needs wood pellets, firewood, heating oil, or food can still apply for it and get it.” He added that he was “opposed to adopting this policy without fully vetting out every line of it and having input from people who actually do the work.” Commissioner Monty Stobart entered the conversation and said he felt the new policy is “a step in the right direction” because the current policy has loopholes that could put the county at liability according to their attorney. He said the new policy protects the commissioners from a potential lawsuit. Burrows said the new policy is “not as clean as it’s being suggested,” and indicated that a previous action Stobart took “created a fulcrum” for the commissioners to have to pivot on. He then quoted the auditor as saying that there have been zero refusals to pay claims under $750 under the last several years and implied that Stobart wants to rush through approving the new policy because of a “questionable circumstance he (Stobart) highlighted with an anonymous veteran.” Burrows then referenced a letter Stobart had written that had “thrown the Veteran Advisory Board chairman under the bus and insinuated that he was participating in fraud or gifting,” expressing discontentment that the letter was written as though Stobart were speaking for all of the commissioners. Burrows claimed that Stobart “threw the program under the bus.” Shortly after, the discussion ended and the commissioners approved the new policy with a 2-1 vote, Burrows opposing. Nancy Cross said, “It just felt sneaky to push [the policy] through without listening to public concern.” Steven Cross said he announced his resignation from the Veterans Advisory Board upon hearing the decision to approve the VRF policy. He has since retracted his resignation and is waiting to hear from the county commissioners if he will be reinstated. After the vote, Stobart made to leave the room, despite attendees still asking for clarification on their decision and the future of the VRF policy. According to Nancy Cross, Tom Hicks, who is a Veteran Service officer and attended the meeting, had his hand raised and was asking the commissioners to review the policy again. As Stobart walked by him, he “swatted” Hicks’ hand down. Both Nancy Cross and Meyer watched the altercation and said that Hicks responded by telling Stobart not to hit him. Stobart said he was not trying to hit Hicks, he was trying to grab him, to which Hicks told Stobart not to touch him. “It was completely unexpected and wildly unprofessional,” Nancy Cross said. Meyer said, “Everybody said they're kind of stunned to see a commissioner actually touch a member of the audience in anger.” She added, “You just kind of feel like you're in the Twilight Zone at that point.” After the exchange, Stobart left despite community members asking the commissioners for clarification on their decision. Meyer said multiple people who witnessed the altercation with Stobart encouraged Hicks to report it to law enforcement. The county commissioner meetings on Monday, Nov. 10, were cancelled due to “no quorum available;” it was noted on the agenda that Stobart was “out of office.” Stobart did not respond to request for comment. According to the state legislature, a veterans relief fund policy is a set of guidelines for providing short-term financial assistance to eligible veterans and their families who are experiencing a financial crisis. These policies outline eligibility requirements, the types of expenses that can be covered (such as rent, utilities, and medical or vehicle costs), and the limitations on the amount of aid available. The primary purpose is to offer temporary support to help a veteran regain financial stability, not to provide long-term or automatic entitlements. The commissioners had previously met on Oct. 29, and Nov. 6, to review the new policy draft. Stevens County auditor Lori Larsen has also had a role in drafting the new policy. During the meeting she stated that she removed references to Stevens County Veteran Service Office, made changes to the policy’s formatting, and eliminated sections that called for coordination between Veteran Service Office and other agencies. The commissioners also emphasized the need for consistency, specifically in terms of how veterans receive funding, indicating that some veterans in the past have been treated as more important than others. Elizabeth Snell with the Veteran Advisory Board gave a statement to the commissioners regarding how veterans will be impacted by changes to the VRF. Snell said she believes that the policy should offer an alternative decider because the auditor’s office may have a conflict of interest when deciding funding. Snell then stated concerns over the length of time it could take for veterans to provide proof of income, saying it could take up to six months. She also shared concerns over privacy, stating that confidential health information could become easily accessible through the VRF application. Veteran Donna Meyer, who is also involved with American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, spoke to the commissioners and recommended that a clause be added around how big the VRF balance could get and when excess money would be returned to taxpayers. Meyer said she felt dismissed after bringing up her concerns; attendee Nancy Cross said commissioner Young indicated that Meyer’s concerns “didn’t need to be addressed.” Meyer said, “The RCW (Revised Code of Washington) states that some of that money needs to be returned to the taxpayers and the RCW unfortunately doesn't direct how to return it or at what percentage of the VRF.” She added, “[The commissioners] didn't want our input at this point and Lori (Larsen) never really wanted our input.” Steven Cross, a veteran and member of the Veteran Advisory Board, said, “The fact that [the county commissioners] didn't trust members of the Veterans Advisory Board to help veterans with this policy and funds, that kind of rubbed me wrong.” Meyer, Steven Cross and Nancy Cross all stated that they were given less than 15 minutes before the meeting to review the new VRF policy, and that the commissioners did not review the document in its entirety before voting on its approval. After public comments were given, commissioner Greg Young motioned to approve the VRF policy with the changes proposed by Larson. Commissioner Mark Burrows opposed the motion, stating that he thought they would review the VRF “line by line with the Veteran Advisory Board.” He said that the policy felt rushed and advised that the commissioners take their time to approve the new policy, especially considering that “the current system still works.” Burrows said, “A veteran that needs wood pellets, firewood, heating oil, or food can still apply for it and get it.” He added that he was “opposed to adopting this policy without fully vetting out every line of it and having input from people who actually do the work.” Commissioner Monty Stobart entered the conversation and said he felt the new policy is “a step in the right direction” because the current policy has loopholes that could put the county at liability according to their attorney. He said the new policy protects the commissioners from a potential lawsuit. Burrows said the new policy is “not as clean as it’s being suggested,” and indicated that a previous action Stobart took “created a fulcrum” for the commissioners to have to pivot on. He then quoted the auditor as saying that there have been zero refusals to pay claims under $750 under the last several years and implied that Stobart wants to rush through approving the new policy because of a “questionable circumstance he (Stobart) highlighted with an anonymous veteran.” Burrows then referenced a letter Stobart had written that had “thrown the Veteran Advisory Board chairman under the bus and insinuated that he was participating in fraud or gifting,” expressing discontentment that the letter was written as though Stobart were speaking for all of the commissioners. Burrows claimed that Stobart “threw the program under the bus.” Shortly after, the discussion ended and the commissioners approved the new policy with a 2-1 vote, Burrows opposing. Nancy Cross said, “It just felt sneaky to push [the policy] through without listening to public concern.” Steven Cross said he announced his resignation from the Veterans Advisory Board upon hearing the decision to approve the VRF policy. He has since retracted his resignation and is waiting to hear from the county commissioners if he will be reinstated. After the vote, Stobart made to leave the room, despite attendees still asking for clarification on their decision and the future of the VRF policy. According to Nancy Cross, Tom Hicks, who is a Veteran Service officer and attended the meeting, had his hand raised and was asking the commissioners to review the policy again. As Stobart walked by him, he “swatted” Hicks’ hand down. Both Nancy Cross and Meyer watched the altercation and said that Hicks responded by telling Stobart not to hit him. Stobart said he was not trying to hit Hicks, he was trying to grab him, to which Hicks told Stobart not to touch him. “It was completely unexpected and wildly unprofessional,” Nancy Cross said. Meyer said, “Everybody said they're kind of stunned to see a commissioner actually touch a member of the audience in anger.” She added, “You just kind of feel like you're in the Twilight Zone at that point.” After the exchange, Stobart left despite community members asking the commissioners for clarification on their decision. Meyer said multiple people who witnessed the altercation with Stobart encouraged Hicks to report it to law enforcement. The county commissioner meetings on Monday, Nov. 10, were cancelled due to “no quorum available;” it was noted on the agenda that Stobart was “out of office.” Stobart did not respond to request for comment. 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

William “Bill” Thomas Scrimsher | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. William “Bill” Thomas Scrimsher 83 Oct 2, 1941 - Jul 25, 2025 William “Bill” Thomas Scrimsher, age 83, a longtime resident of Colville, Wash. area passed away on July 25, 2025 at his home, surrounded by family. Bill was born in Spokane, Oct. 2, 1941, to Corey and Jacoba (Tromp) Scrimsher. He joined his brother, Roger, and two sisters, Nancy and Martha. The family lived on a large ranch at Idaho Falls. By Bill’s fifth birthday, his parents had separated. Bill and Martha lived primarily with their mother in Idaho Falls for a short period and then they moved to Walla Walla, Wash., where Bill attended public school Kindergarten through grade 12. There he graduated in 1959. After completing 12th grade, Bill joined the Navy’s Kiddy Cruze, Sept. 1959-1962. He enjoyed seeing the world and serving his country on the USS Wilhoite. He was discharged a few weeks early so he could begin his studies of Animal Husbandry at the U. of I. Bill married Gladys Crane in Lewiston, Idaho, on July 11, 1964. After the Oct. 1964 harvest was completed, Bill was hired by the Winchester, Idaho lumber mill. In Feb. of 1965, Bill began a 35-year career with Washington Water Power utilities, now Avista, working in both Lewiston and Kettle Falls, Wash. He worked in several departments and retired in 2000, as a Journeyman from the Kettle Falls steam plant, which he helped construct. Bill and Gladys have owned a little farm in Culdesac, Idaho since 1967. Their great-grandchildren enjoy the family farm to this day. Following his retirement, Bill and Gladys furthered their volunteer missionary work in various countries including: Venezuela, Papua New Guinea, Haiti, and several years in Vanuatu. Bill enjoyed hunting, including bear, and fishing locally and on the Oregon coast. In recent years, he learned pickleball. He enjoyed keeping up his one acre yard in Arden, Wash., and traveling in the U.S. which included working on missionary projects. In the spring of 2025, Bill quickly became very ill and was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma and other serious health problems. He was at peace and knew his future was secure in his Savior’s love. Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Scrimsher and one sister, Nancy Freeman. Bill is survived by his wife, Gladys Scrimsher, of Colville, Wash.; three sons, Brian Scrimsher (Tamara) of Sandpoint, Idaho, Bryce Scrimsher (Mindy) of Culdesac, Idaho, and Todd Scrimsher (Rachel) of Colville, Wash.; daughter, Kristine (Nat) Baker of Colville, Wash., 21 of grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; one sister, Martha Jones (Johnny) of Spokane, Wash.; several nieces and nephews; Bill and Gladys also helped raise Gladys’ younger brother, Rick Crane, two foster sons, Alan and Dan, and a bonus daughter, Hono of Vanuatu. Together this family has grown to 45 people! Bill’s hope was you would find his funeral clearly explaining God’s plan for salvation. Please join us for Bill’s funeral service at First Baptist Church, 915 South Cedar St., Colville, WA beginning at 9:30 a.m., on Thursday, July 31. Everyone is also invited to attend the military service at Normal Hill Cemetery ,1122 7th St., Lewiston, Idaho, on the same day at 3:30 p.m. Danekas Funeral Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. Previous Item Next Item

Christopher James Collins — 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 Christopher James Collins Christopher James Collins was born on Jan. 5, 2026, to parents Cheyanne Cable and Richard Collins of Chewelah, Wash. He weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces at birth. His maternal grandparents are Kristi Hale of Northport, Wash., and Michael Francis of Alabama. His paternal grandparents are Angie and Christopher Collins of Chewelah, Wash. His maternal great-grandparents are Dee McLaughlin of Northport, Wash., and Daniel Villines of Everett, Wash. His paternal great-grandparents are Tessie and Richard H. Collins of Chewelah, Wash. 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

Colville Girls Basketball on a Hot Streak, While Boys Split a Pair of Games - 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 Girls Basketball on a Hot Streak, While Boys Split a Pair of Games January 14, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen Andee Kroiss. File photo. Colville Girls Take Down Okanogan and East Valley The Lady Crimson Hawks extended their winning streak to four games with a pair of convincing nonleague victories last week, a 53-36 win over Okanogan on Friday, Jan. 9, and a 55-29 road win at East Valley on Jan. 6. Colville improved to 8-4 overall and is scheduled to open Northeast A League play at home against Medical Lake on Thursday, Jan. 16, with tipoff set for 7:15 p.m. Against Okanogan, Colville pulled away in the second half behind a balanced offensive effort and steady defense. The Crimson Hawks led just 20-14 at halftime before outscoring the Bulldogs 31-22 over the final two quarters to secure the win. Andee Kroiss paced Colville with 15 points, going 6-for-6 from the floor and adding three free throws. Georgia Beardslee added 14 points. The Lady Hawks shot efficiently from the line, converting 9 of 14 free throws, and held Okanogan scoreless from beyond the arc. Earlier in the week, Colville controlled the tempo from start to finish in a dominant performance at East Valley. The Crimson Hawks jumped out to a 14-5 first-quarter lead and never looked back, building a 29-12 halftime advantage and cruising to the 26-point victory. Kroiss again led the way with 16 points, while Rylee Brisby added 15 points, including seven field goals. Hannah Edwards scored six points, and Beardslee added seven points as Colville placed nine players in the scoring column. Colville shot 22-of-55 from the field and knocked down three 3-pointers in the win. Defensively, the Crimson Hawks limited East Valley to just 10 made field goals. While league games have not begun, Colville has the best record out of the four-team league after a challenging early-season schedule. Colville Boys Basketball Splits Nonleague Games The Colville boys basketball team split a pair of games last week but continues to show its offensive prowess before Northeast A League play later this week. The Crimson Hawks dropped a 74-57 nonleague decision to Okanogan on Friday, Jan. 9, in Colville after earning a hard-fought 61-57 road win over East Valley earlier in the week. Colville enters league play with a 6-6 overall record, and is scheduled to host Medical Lake on Thursday, Jan. 16, with tipoff set for 5:45 p.m. Okanogan’s Waydyn Brown poured in a game-high 29 points to lead the Bulldogs past Colville on Friday. Brown knocked down five 3-pointers as Okanogan built a 39-20 halftime lead and never relinquished control. Colville struggled offensively in the first half, scoring just eight points in the opening quarter and 20 total before the break. The Crimson Hawks showed improved energy after halftime, outscoring Okanogan 36-35 over the final two quarters, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome. Brock Benson led Colville with 18 points, going 6-for-7 from the free-throw line. Parker Darnold and Crew Bridgeman each scored 11 points, while Colville finished 14 of 16 from the foul line. The Crimson Hawks connected on four 3-pointers but were unable to match Okanogan’s nine from beyond the arc. Colville earned a gritty win at East Valley on Jan. 6, in a matchup with a Greater Spokane League 2A squad, using a strong second quarter to swing momentum. After trailing 18-11 at the end of the first quarter, the Crimson Hawks erupted for 24 points in the second to take a 35-29 halftime lead. Colville held off a late push from the Knights in the fourth quarter to secure the four-point victory. Benson scored 13 points to pace a balanced Colville attack, while Quentin Huggins added 12 and Bateman and Bridgeman chipped in 11 points apiece. The Crimson Hawks knocked down eight 3-pointers in the win and went 9 of 15 from the free-throw line. 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

Ida Janet Jewhurst | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. Ida Janet Jewhurst 84 Aug 12, 1941 - Oct 16, 2025 Ida Janet Jewhurst, 84, Colville, Wash., passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 16 surrounded by loved ones Born Aug. 12 1941, in Harper, Kan., to Lee and Arietta Sheridan, she grew up in Thermopolis, Wyo., and later moved to Washington. Lovingly known as “Gma Nut,” she was admired for her big heart, strong will, and “The Look” we all came to know. She touched many lives managing at the Redbull and the Elks. She especially loved crafting, cooking, holidays, and cheering on Gonzaga basketball. Survived by her children Bridgette (Ron) Borders, Kelly (Christine) Timmons, Jeff (Trudy) Jewhurst & Debbie (Scott) Ellis; her 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband Charles “Chuck” Jewhurst; son Terry Corkill; and granddaughter Lyndsey White A memorial service will be held on Nov. 8, at 1 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery. All are welcome. Her legacy of love, strength and tenacity will live on in all who knew her We will miss you Grandma Nut. Previous Item Next Item

Northport Basketball Fights to Remain a Top League Contender - 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 Northport Basketball Fights to Remain a Top League Contender January 21, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen Northport Girls Drop Pair of League Games The Northport girls basketball team dropped a pair of Northeast 1B North games over the weekend after opening the week with a strong home victory. 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. Northport was also tested Friday night at home, falling 52-33 to the Curlew Cougars on Jan. 16. Curlew (11-4, 6-3) built a 26-19 halftime lead and never relinquished control. Annika Baker scored a game-high 18 points for the Cougars. Northport was led by Ruthie Hebarling with 10 points, while Kate Beardslee chipped in eight points. Northport had started the week with a 57-21 home win over Hunters Lions on Jan. 13. Beardslee led the Mustangs with a dominant performance, scoring 24 points and knocking down one of Northport’s two 3-pointers. Kylie Colton added 17 points, and Persephanie Ste. Marie scored seven as Northport jumped out to a 13-0 first-quarter lead and steadily pulled away. Northport held Hunters to eight field goals in the game. Liberty Herrara led Columbia-Hunters with 10 points. Results from the Mustangs’ matchup against Selkirk on Tuesday, Jan. 20, were unavailable at press time. The Mustangs will continue the week with scheduled games at Inchelium on Friday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m., then at Nespelem on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 4:30 p.m. Northport Boys Still in Control of NE 1B League The Northport boys basketball team went 2-1 in NE 1B North play last week, picking up a pair of decisive home wins before running into league contender Republic on the road. While they did suffer their first loss, the Mustangs stayed atop the NE 1B North standings. The Republic Tigers handed the Northport Mustangs an 81-37 loss in Republic on Saturday, Jan. 17. The Tigers improved to 7-2 in league play at 10-5 overall. Northport recorded a dominant 77-42 home win the previous night over the Curlew Cougars on Jan. 16. Earlier in the week, Northport turned in its highest-scoring performance of the season, cruising to a 95-58 win over the Hunters Lions on Jan. 13. The Mustangs are now 12-5 overall and 9-1 in league play. Results from their Tuesday, Jan. 20, matchup against Selkirk were unavailable at press time; the boys are scheduled to continue the week at Inchelium on Friday, Jan. 23, for the final game of the regular season at 7:30 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

Susan Ann Smith | obituary published by the Statesman-Examiner in Colville, Washington. Susan Ann Smith 80 Oct 2, 1945 - Jan 6, 2026 Sue Smith, age 80, passed away January 6, 2026, in Kettle Falls, Washington. Sue was born on October 2, 1945, in Astoria, Oregon, to Wayne and Helen Hill. After a short time in Astoria, the family moved to Farragut, Idaho, before settling in Moscow, Idaho, where Sue would grow up and graduate from Moscow High School in 1964. At the tender age of 13, Sue would say she met the love of her life, Rod Smith. Rod was two years ahead of her in school, and as the story goes, he captured her heart that day, and they began dating 3 years later, in the Fall of 1962. After receiving their associate degrees, they married in 1966 in Moscow. After brief stops in Spokane and Hawaii, they bought their first home in Yakima and welcomed their daughter, Cindy, in 1972. 1976 brought their final move, and Kettle Falls, Washington, became their forever home, where they would live for nearly 50 years. Rod, Sue, and their daughter made a lifetime of beautiful memories amongst friends in Kettle Falls. They recently celebrated Sue’s 80th birthday and 59 years of marriage in October of 2025, with a special trip to the Oregon Coast, accompanied by Cindy. Sue lived to love. She found great joy in bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome. She used her phenomenal talents in the kitchen to create amazing meals and baked goods. Breaking bread and sharing stories with those she cared about was part of a long, rich tradition she and her family shared. Sue was always the first to make sure that others had what they needed and were cared for. She took great pride in making foods and desserts that her family and friends loved. Rarely did a day go by that Rod did not have special, homemade sweet treats waiting for him (usually chocolate)! Sue had a large and cherished collection of handwritten recipes and cookbooks, and spent hours poring over them, making notes along the way. She read many of her favorites, cover to cover! Sue was incredibly proud of the home she created over the years and had a true flair for all things creative. From decorating and baking to needlework and floral arranging, her home was a beautiful representation of the life and love she cultivated within its walls. Holidays were Sue’s favorite, and Christmas was the highlight of the year. She adored the decorations that she had collected over the years, many from family generations before that held special meaning. She took extra pride in her numerous decorated trees, spectacular winter village, and snow globe collection. She would start her long list of Christmas baking the day after Thanksgiving – making sure everyone got “their favorites” … and then some! Although she adored the hustle and bustle of Christmas, she never lost sight of the true meaning of the season. From a very early age, Sue was spiritually led and found the beauty in God’s creations every day. Sue never met a stranger and had a notable way of connecting with people and putting those she visited at ease. She built countless relationships simply because of her genuine, heartfelt interest and inviting nature. When she asked, “How are you doing?” she sincerely wanted to know. Sue loved life and cherished simple blessings. She found great joy in beautiful sunsets, going to the cabin, getting her nails done, spending time at the ocean, taking drives, taking their 1940 Ford pick-up to car shows and parades, and hand-dipped corn dogs with mustard (they had to be hand-dipped) …but what she loved most was simply being with her family. She loved us in the best ways possible, was our biggest cheerleader, and a constant supporter. She treasured every moment with her family and never missed a chance to say how blessed she was by us. Without a doubt, her favorite place to do so was at the family cabin on the St. Joe River. Sue is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Rod; daughter, Cindy, and son-in-law, Chris Schneider; grandchildren, Jack and Kate Schneider; and brother, Mike Hill and family. A memorial service and reception will be held on Thursday, February 5, at 1 pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Colville, Washington. Sue will be laid to rest in Moscow, Idaho, at a later date. Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with her care, and online condolences may be made at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com . Previous Item Next Item

Stensgar Scores 61 Points, Inchelium Basketball Finishes Third in League - 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 Stensgar Scores 61 Points, Inchelium Basketball Finishes Third in League January 28, 2026 By: Brandon Hansen The Inchelium boys basketball team balanced a loss to Northport with two NE 1B North victories, claiming third place in the regular season standings. 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. Inchelium’s Gaige Stensgar delivered a historic performance, erupting for 61 points while knocking down an incredible 13 3-pointers. Stensgar accounted for nearly two-thirds of Inchelium’s offense as the Hornets finished with 15 triples as a team. Caleb Abrahamson added 13 points, while Derek Perez chipped in 11 as Inchelium cruised to the win. Inchelium fell to Northport on Jan. 23, leaving the Mustangs to finish the season as the NE 1B North champions. The Hornets bounced back on Saturday, Jan. 24, rolling past Hunters 64-40 on the road. Inchelium led 33-18 at halftime before pulling away with a 24-point third quarter. Stensgar again led the way with 18 points, while Abrahamson contributed 16 points. Hunters was led by Baren Sterling with 10 points. With the two wins, the Inchelium Hornets finished the regular season 15-4 overall and 9-3 league play. 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