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Articles written by Olivia Harnack


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  • Ashes, echoes and no creamer

    Olivia Harnack|Updated Feb 26, 2026

    There are two kinds of Catholics on Ash Wednesday. Those who walk out of Mass with a perfectly symmetrical cross on their forehead, and those of us who look like we lost a fight with a fireplace. Every year, it is a gamble. You stand in line, head bowed, contemplating your mortality, your sins and, most importantly, the priest's fine motor skills. Some priests are artists. Michelangelo with a thumb. Others? Let us just say their ashes resemble a weather pattern. I once walked...

  • Still reporting, now with a rucksack

    Olivia Harnack|Updated Feb 19, 2026

    If you saw the front page, then yes, it is true. I have officially been deployed to Washington, D.C. While I cannot speak on the mission or the specifics of what we are doing, I can confirm that this editor in camo is slightly out of county and officially reporting for duty. Reporting. Because I am a reporter. I will let that joke stand on its own. I am writing this at 5 a.m. Thursday morning, which feels right. I like being up before everyone else. It is quiet. It is calm. I...

  • Odessa FBLA earns state bids

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 19, 2026

    ODESSA - Odessa High School's Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students turned in a strong showing at the regional conference, earning multiple top-six finishes and qualifying several competitors for state. The chapter competed at the FBLA Regional Leadership Conference on Thursday, February 6, at Spokane Falls Community College. Students represented Odessa with professionalism and preparation, securing top placements across a range of events. Aiden Schmierer and...

  • Fairytale magic comes to Reardan

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 19, 2026

    REARDAN — A night of fairies, princesses and spaghetti dinners will fill the Reardan Elementary Commons later this month as Reardan Partners in Education hosts its annual Father-Daughter Dance. The event, themed “Fairytale Nights,” will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, and is open to elementary students in the district and a father figure of their choice. Each ticket includes a spaghetti dinner, crafts and treats, an emailed keepsake photo and a commemorative ticket. Organizers will also award prizes in categories...

  • Tiny trendsetters rock 100

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    REARDAN - The runway was short, the smiles were big and the outfits sparkled as Reardan Elementary students proved that 100 days of school is worth celebrating in style. Students from Heidi Nelson's first-grade class didn't hesitate when asked about the school's sixth annual 100th Day Fashion Show. The answer came back loud and unanimous: yes, they had fun. "I made a shirt with 100 gems," said Royce Rodriguez, 7, quickly clarifying that the gems were not real "so nobody gets...

  • Crab shells, Bingo luck and one judgy dachshund

    Olivia Harnack|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    This weekend, where do I even begin? Probably with the burst waterline that turned my bathroom into a splash pad and sent me out of my Davenport office early on Friday. Nothing like mopping your own floor before heading to a crab feed. Once the water chaos was temporarily handled, I pointed my car toward Odessa, assuming a calm evening at the annual Lions Club crab feed. I was wrong. Cars lined the streets, and inside the community hall I barely made it through the door...

  • Love sweeps the county

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    DAVENPORT — Romance, creativity, and a little mischief are in full swing across Lincoln County this Valentine’s season. From Galentine’s gatherings to teen sweetheart dances, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate. Arrow M. Saddlery in Davenport is hosting a Galentine’s Workshop on Friday, Feb. 13. Participants can craft beginner-friendly projects such as hat bands, mini jewelry boxes, claw clips, and mini makeup bags. Pizza, tools and materials will be provided. The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendees are urged to RSVP...

  • Early election results show passing levies

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    DAVENPORT — Early results from Tuesday’s special election show voters approving all levy-only ballot measures across Lincoln County. As of 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 11, voter turnout was 32%, with 1,393 ballots cast out of 4,303 registered voters. Lincoln County Elections Manager Norm Caley said 4,400 ballots were mailed. Results will be certified February 20. The next update is expected at 1 p.m. Thursday, February 12....

  • Respiratory illnesses climb

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    DAVENPORT — As the season drags on, Lincoln County health officials are reporting an uptick in respiratory illnesses, with influenza A currently leading the surge. According to Lincoln County Public Health, cases of influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 are all trending upward across the county. Officials said influenza A is the most prevalent infection at this time. Public health officials have received notification of one influenza A-related death in Lincoln County. Statewide, 74 i...

  • Odessa school board reorganizes

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    ODESSA — Routine governance, long-term planning and student-focused programs took center stage during the school board meeting late last month. The Board of Directors met in regular session Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the high school library following a workshop on athletics and results from a district cell phone survey. Chris Crossley was unanimously elected board chairman, with Carmen Weishaar elected vice chairman. Sheena Starkel was named legislative representative, and Zach Schafer was selected as the district’s WIAA rep...

  • Crab cracked, community came hungry

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 11, 2026

    ODESSA - Good food, live music and a strong community turnout helped make the Odessa Lions Club's annual crab feed a smooth and successful night, organizers said. The fundraiser, held Friday evening, Feb. 6, drew at least 200 people despite being short a few people, according to Lions Club President Marlon Schafer. "We grossed about $8,500," Schafer said. "I don't know net, but we probably raised $4,000 to $5,000. It went really well." Schafer said feedback from attendees was...

  • Downtown Davenport welcomes artisan hub

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    DAVENPORT - A once-empty downtown corner is buzzing again after a new hub for local merchants, artisans and artists opened its doors. The Davenport Merchant celebrated its grand opening Saturday, Jan. 31, at 549 Morgan Street, bringing together a dozen local vendors under one roof. Owner Dawn Shaver, 54, of Davenport, said the idea grew out of years of selling handmade bath and body products at markets. She began making natural products during the COVID-19 pandemic and...

  • Lincoln County ballots due Tuesday

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    DAVENPORT — With the February special election fast approaching, Lincoln County voters have just one week to submit ballots. As of Monday, Feb. 2, only 20% of ballots had been returned, according to the Lincoln County Elections Office. Norm Caley, elections manager, said 4,400 ballots were sent out and 853 have been returned so far. “Next Tuesday is the last day to submit ballots,” he said. Drop-off locations include the Lincoln County Auditor’s Office inside the Lincoln County Court house and outside at the east side pa...

  • Deputies stop high-speed pursuit

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    WILBUR — What began as a routine traffic stop on a rural highway escalated into a high-speed pursuit and a dangerous confrontation that ended with a driver hospitalized and an active criminal investigation underway. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate an incident that unfolded Tuesday, Jan. 28, involving a fleeing vehicle, spike strips and a standoff with an armed driver. According to the sheriff’s office, a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on state Route 2 at ab...

  • Punxsutawney predicts more winter

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    DAVENPORT — Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Monday morning, signaling six more weeks of winter. But for Lincoln County, that might not mean a deep freeze. The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts above-normal temperatures and precipitation for the next six weeks. Meteorologists put the chances at 50-60% for higher-than-average temperatures and 40-50% for above-average precipitation. “This time of year, the average high in Davenport and surrounding areas is around 48 degrees, and that is on the h...

  • Burn Barrels, coffee, and Uncle Sam's shenanigans

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    Almost twice in one month. Yes, I know. It sounds excessive. But when Uncle Sam fires up the National Guard Bat-Signal in the sky, you answer the call or you get accused of going AWOL, handed discharge paperwork, and introduced to a lovely assortment of “corrective training.” Translation: pushups. Because in the Army, you either get smart or you get strong. So there I was again this weekend, alarm blaring at 4 a.m. Saturday morning, feeling like I’d been knocked flat before my boots even hit the floor. But anyone who’s...

  • County readies for Super Bowl 2026

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    HARRINGTON — From kickoff bites to fourth-quarter cheers, several spots across the county are gearing up to tackle Super Bowl Sunday with food, drinks and full-house crowds expected. Super Bowl Sunday is set for Sunday, Feb. 8, with the Seattle Seahawks facing the New England Patriots at 3:30 p.m., prompting local restaurants and bars to host game-day specials and watch parties. The Harrington Haus will offer dine-in and takeout options throughout the game, encouraging fans to skip the kitchen and focus on the action on t...

  • Wall Fame Nominations Open

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    REARDAN — Nominations are now open for the Reardan-Edwall Wall of Fame. The program honors former students, coaches and community members who have demonstrated leadership, character and success. Nomination forms are available online, and the district encourages residents to submit candidates to celebrate those who have contributed to the Reardan legacy....

  • Odessa PTO Car Show April

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    ODESSA — The Odessa PTO has opened registration for its third annual Car & Bike Show, set for Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the corner of 1st and Division streets. The event will feature live music, food and shop vendors, an FFA plant sale, quilt show, local yard sales, swag bags and trophies. The first 20 registrants will receive a swag bag filled with goodies from local businesses....

  • Students make Dean's List

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    DAVENPORT — Two Davenport students earned spots on the dean’s list at Eastern Oregon University for outstanding academic achievement. Thomas Furman, a student in the School of Teacher and Health Sciences majoring in Health and Human Performance, and Jensyn Jacobsen, also in the School of Teacher and Health Sciences majoring in Biology, received the recognition. The dean’s list honors students who achieve high grades during the academic term....

  • Show to mark 100 days

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    REARDAN — Transitional kindergarten, kindergarten and first-grade students in Reardan will celebrate the 100th day of school with a fashion show Friday, Feb. 6. The sixth annual 100th Day Fashion Show is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. and will feature students modeling outfits inspired by the milestone. The Community can watch the event live on the Reardan School District’s Facebook page....

  • Local group earns Hunger Award

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    REARDAN — A decade of feeding children has earned a local nonprofit statewide recognition. We C.A.R.E., short for We Care About Reardan Edwall, has received the Catherine Klingel Bite2Go Service Award for its commitment to addressing child hunger in Reardan schools. The group will accept the award Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the Wolff Family Child Hunger Solution Center in Spokane. The organization adopted Reardan schools into the Bite2Go program about 10 years ago, providing weekend meals and snacks for 111 students. The program q...

  • Odessa Lions Crab Feed Friday

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    ODESSA — Get ready to shell out for a good time. The Odessa Lions Club will host its annual crab feed Friday, Feb. 6, featuring fresh crab from the Western Washington coastline and prime rib for those who prefer land over sea. Tickets guarantee each guest a crab and a half or a hearty slice of prime rib. The event, a longtime club tradition and one of its top fundraisers, typically sells out each year, according to Marlon Schafer, president of the club. . Organizers expect a couple hundred attendees at the Odessa Community C...

  • Odessa hosts alumni career fair

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    ODESSA - The Odessa High School gymnasium buzzed with energy Friday as 35 alumni, ranging from the classes of 1982 to 2025, returned to share career experiences with students. Four additional alumni attended virtually. All students in grades six through 12 participated, connecting with former graduates from a wide variety of fields. Careers represented included medicine, agriculture, technology, law, engineering, firefighting, and law enforcement. Among those present were...

  • Harrington board delays school calendar

    Olivia Harnack, The Record-Times|Updated Feb 5, 2026

    HARRINGTON — The Harrington School Board approved most agenda items Tuesday, Jan. 28, but the 2026-2027 school calendar was tabled amid concerns over summer camp scheduling. Courtney Strozyk, principal and superintendent of Harrington School District No. 204, said the board’s main goal is to keep the district updated and compliant with state requirements. “The school board just has to approve everything for the state,” she said. The meeting included a work session at 6 p.m. for onboarding a new board member and a regular...

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