Stephens named Free Press editor

CHENEY – An experienced reporter has been named managing editor of the Cheney Free Press.

Matthew O. Stephens, 41, of Spokane –formerly of Cheney – took over the newsroom beginning June 1.

"It's good to have an experienced reporter back at the helm of the newspaper," Publisher Roger Harnack said. "Matthew's skills will help provide our readers with more, in-depth coverage of local people and events.

"The region is growing at an incredible rate," Stephens said. "The people deserve a proactive journalist to keep them updated on what's happening."

Stephens has been a reporter and photographer at the Cheney Free Press and Spokane Valley News Herald.

He stepped away from the newspaper business for a year to work in television news. After spending several months as a technical media producer and studio camera operator, he was moved into a role as a newscast producer, in which he authored stories for an early morning broadcast show highlighting rural Montana.

But Stephens was drawn to print journalism and wanted to get back into the field as a photojournalist. After excelling with the Spokane Valley News Herald for a couple of months, he accepted the editor position with Cheney Free Press.

"I really learned a lot while working in TV news," Stephens said. "However, my heart lies with utilizing my camera and writing skills to focus on the smaller communities. Keeping the people informed is where my passion lies."

He isn't shy about diving in and tackling municipal news as well as community events and sports.

Stephens said he looks to cover as many angles of the West Plains as possible and has a goal of being a more well-rounded journalist.

"I will inevitably grow as a journalist as I cover the expansion of the area," he added.

Boasting a great set of skills with camera gear, the experienced journalist also brings a lot to the newspaper in terms of "art."

Stephens is confident in his ability to photograph any news scene, but said he specializes in community events and sports.

"I really enjoy most types of photography," Stephens said. "But, even in an age driven by social and digital media, there is still something special about getting kids' sports photos and happy community events in the physical newspaper."

Writing for and about the area is what makes the job so special, he said.

"I like to say that my favorite words to write are the stories that help people celebrate each other," Stephens said.