Local News

Election Day for Washington’s general election is Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce discussed the importance of connecting local businesses with students during their Oct. 20 meeting, which featured four local high school seniors sharing how their school experiences are preparing them for life after graduation.

Stevens County Auditor Lori Larsen announced on Oct. 14 that a labeling mix-up has been identified on five newly-installed ballot drop boxes throughout Stevens County.

After a mid-season bye, Riverside returned to action against Cascade High School, taking a 15-6 halftime lead behind touchdowns from Spencer Scarpelli and Cade Koesel and a defensive safety by Zach Schneider. The Kodiaks rallied with three long touchdown runs to win 26-15. Riverside travels to face Lakeside on Friday, Oct. 16.

Washington’s minimum wage will rise from $17.13 to $17.73 per hour on Jan. 1, 2027. The 3.5% inflation-based increase is expected to add about $1,248 annually for full-time workers, but re
sidents and businesses remain divided over its impact amid rising living costs.

Deer Park’s Lady Stags opened district play after earning wins over Central Valley and Ridgeline, including two program-first victories against highly ranked Greater Spokane League opponents. The team will compete for one of four state tournament berths in Yakima on Oct. 23-24.

The Deer Park City Council appointed Marcus Anderson to fill a vacant seat, addressed concerns about surveillance cameras, approved engineering for a backup golf-course water pump, appointed a new Planning Commission member, and awarded a pavement-preservation contract that will affect travel near Deer Park Golf Course.

For Elwyn Behnke, teaching piano is about more than learning to read notes or play scales; it is about helping students discover the joy of making music in their own way.

Former Deer Park School District teacher and coach Lance Anderson passed away on Sept. 21 at the age of 72.

Former Deer Park High School football player Matt McLean wasn’t just known for setting records on the football season, he was also a minor local celebrity for a role he had in “VisionQuest,” a movie about a high school wrestler in Spokane.

With Billy Costello officially appointed as Deer Park mayor, vacancies have opened up on Deer Park City Council.

Deer Park businesses are showing their school spirit as the Deer Park Football Club hosts the first annual Stag Spirit Showdown, inviting local businesses to decorate their storefronts in support of Deer Park High School students and athletes.

For resident Devon Peone, returning to Mary Walker School District is more than taking on a new teaching position; it’s a full-circle moment. He is returning to the school he attended as a child to introduce students to a language he has devoted much of his life to preserving.

Deer Park's royalty has been keeping a busy schedule this year, representing the community at parades, community events, fundraisers, and meetings throughout the region.

The city of Deer Park announced on Sept. 14 that Mayor Tim Verzal has passed away.

Hannah Petty suffered a fractured femur and pelvic injuries after
a wheel broke free from a vehicle traveling on Highway 395

The Rotary Club of Deer Park announced September’s Students of the Month at their Sept. 3 lunch. Seniors Kaylin Gines from Mary Walker High School, Noah Brown from Deer Park High School, and Dean Todd of Riverside High School were all honored at the event and spoke about their high school experiences and plans post-graduation.

With roughly 10 minutes left before his Samaritan’s Purse volunteer team had to leave the wildfire-damaged property, Mykel Strickland and the other volunteers launched one final search through the remains.

For Brett Cromwell, becoming an educator began with two people who showed him just how much of a difference a teacher can make. After 17 years in education, including time as a classroom teacher, coach, and assistant principal, Cromwell is bringing that same passion for supporting students and families to Deer Park Elementary as its new assistant principal.

Deer Park resident Robert Whaley plans to set off on foot for Washington, D.C., on Sept. 11, to raise money for a new Veterans Memorial.

U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum made a brief stop at Deer Park Airport Aug. 12 while traveling to Colville, where he was scheduled to meet with firefighting officials.

Longtime educator Brent Osborn has joined the Valley School District as the new superintendent, bringing a wide breadth of experience.

A cyclosporiasis outbreak initially concentrated in the Midwest and East Coast has led to lettuce recalls, with many people uncertain about buying or eating lettuce.

When Cameron Gilbert stepped into his new role at Riverside High School, he brought with him 16 years of experience in education, coaching, and athletics administration – but he said his primary focus has always remained the same: students.