BRIEFLY

BRI E FLY

Back to school events this week

NEWPORT — Local schools are hosting open houses to start off the 2026–2027 school year, with all Newport schools opening their doors to students and their guardians 4–6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26. The Meet the Griz community celebration at the Don Ellersick Field is 6:30–8 p.m.

Earlier in the day, there will be a Back-to-School Wellness Fair at Stratton Elementary from 3–6 p.m. There will be games, health resources and free immunizations for students. Idaho Hill Elementary in Oldtown hosts its open house the same day, 5–7 p.m. On Thursday, Aug. 27 Priest Lake Elementary’s open house runs 2–6 p.m. and Priest River Elementary’s event is 5:45–7 p.m. Back to School Night takes place at Priest River Lamanna Jr./Sr. High School 4–7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3.

Vote for Change rally

NEWPORT — There will be a Vote for Change rally at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4 in front of the Big Wheel in Newport. This rally, organized by WeCU, will stress the importance of voting. “The power to make a difference is in your hands,” WeCU volunteer Deborah Stafford said in a press release.

“Vote for our freedoms.

Vote for our families. Vote for our futures. Vote for change.”

Master Gardener training now open

NEWPORT — Registration for the WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Training is now open through the Washington Green School and continues through Wednesday, Sept. 30. The Washington Green School offers gardeners an opportunity to deepen their horticultural knowledge while making a meaningful impact in their communities.

The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program provides comprehensive, research based education in horticulture and environmental stewardship. Volunteers receive training across a wide range of topics, including botany, soils, plant problem diagnosis, pesticide safety and use, entomology, vegetable gardening, composting and many other sustainable gardening practices aligned with the Program’s nine core priorities. Upon completing the training through WGS, Master Gardener Volunteers share what they’ve learned by assisting and educating others — strengthening community resilience, supporting environmentally sound gardening practices and helping neighbors grow healthier landscapes.

“If you’re interested in gardening and want to make a positive impact in your community, the Master Gardener Program is a rewarding way to expand your skills and connect with others,” said Beverly Sarles, Master Gardener Program Coordinator. Gardeners of all experience levels are encouraged to apply.

Scholarships for tuition from the local Pend Oreille County Master Gardener Foundation are available.

For more information call the WSU Extension Office at 509 447 2401.