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NEWPORT — Local retired Presbyterian pastor Becky Anderson is continuing to give history talks in Newport.
As part of her series of conversations “Let’s Talk History,” Anderson will give two more history talks.
The first is July 31 on “Becoming Kin” by Patty Krawec and will include reflections on Native American experiences on reservations. The second is Aug. 14 and asks the question, Do Black Lives Matter today?” Anderson will answer with the movement has accomplished and what still needs to be addressed.
All are welcome to the biweekly meetings, which are free and held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Create Arts Center, 900 W. 4th St. Each meeting begins with some source documents on the topic and open-ended questions for discussion by those in attendance.
“History is an important part of who we are and who we want to become,” Anderson wrote in an email.
SPOFR collecting school supplies
NEWPORT — South Pend Oreille Fire and Rescue is partnering with Stratton Elementary School, Mountain West Bank and WaFd Bank in Newport to collect school supplies.
Stratton Elementary School students are at the 67% poverty level, according to the news release, which makes buying school supplies an overwhelming burden for larger families.
In a SPOFR news release, Stratton Elementary School principal Jenny Erickson provided a list of items most needed this year: crayon boxes, washable markers, colored pencils, pencil boxes, glue sticks, Ticonderoga pencils, watercolor paints, student-sized scissors and pencil top erasers.
Donors are asked to bring their donations to SPOFR’s 24-7 full-time stations in Newport and Diamond Lake, to Mountain West Bank or to WaFd Bank in Newport.
“We have proven again and again that the whole of Pend Oreille County is greater than the individual,” SPOFR chief Shane Stocking said in the news release. “And SPOFR loves to partner with our local businesses and schools to do the best we can for our neighbors.”
Local church announces new name
NEWPORT — A familiar gathering place just west of town has a new name and a renewed focus on building meaningful connections.
After thoughtful prayer, conversations and reflection, Newport Southern Baptist Church announced that it is now called Harvest Community Fellowship.
“We chose this name because it better reflects who we are and who we’re striving to be,” transitional pastor Michael Liner said in a news release. “It speaks to our desire to grow together in grace, to prioritize authentic relationships, and to be a welcoming, service-minded family of faith.”
Though the name is changing, many things are staying the same. Harvest Community Fellowship will continue to meet at 52 Sitton Rd., just off Highway 2, and remains committed to loving its neighbors, serving the town, and walking in the way of Jesus.
“This isn’t about rebranding—it’s about realigning with the heart of our mission,” the news release read. “We want to make it easier for people to step through our doors and find a place to belong. Whether you’ve never been to church or haven’t been in a long time, you’re welcome here.”
To mark this new chapter, the church is hosting a special celebration at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, with fellowship and refreshments beginning at 9:30 a.m. The entire community is invited to join in what the church is calling “a kind of grand reopening.”
For more information, visit www.HCFNewport.com.
