WINTHROP - Several areas near Washington Pass will be closed to snowmobile and snow bike use through June 30 to provide for the safety of winter recreation users.

OLYMPIA – Minor changes to the spring black bear permit hunt rule were approved Dec. 18 by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission.

OKANOGAN – Okanogan County offers a variety of wildlife that remains active during the winter, including deer, and a variety of birds.

TWISP – StorySki signs, featuring artwork by Methow Valley resident Erik Brooks, await skiers along Methow Trails routes.

OLYMPIA – Hunters who report their 2020 black bear, deer, elk or turkey hunting results by Sunday, Jan. 10, will have the opportunity to win one of nine deer and elk incentive permits for fall 2021.

SPOKANE – Jill Townsend, a 2017 Okanogan graduate, finished with eight points and a game-high six assists in Gonzaga’s 69-37 victory over Saint Mary’s on Jan. 2 at home.

NESPELEM – A winter wellness challenge has been issued to Colville tribal you by the tribe’s youth development program.

RENTON — Dozens of educators from a number of eastern Washington school districts, including several in and near Okanogan County, have written a letter to state officials requesting the return of extracurricular and co-curricular activities for all students.

LOOMIS – The state Department of Fish and Wildlife has closed two roads in the Sinlahekin Wildlife Area for the winter.

RICHLAND – Steelhead fishing closed Jan. 1 on the Hanford Reach of the Columbia River.