Good morning, Richland.

Labcorp will acquire parts of Incyte Diagnostics' testing and pathology labs in Richland, Spokane, Tukwila and Missoula.

The deal is expected to close later in the year while Incyte's pathologists continue to examine tissue samples.

On May 3rd, Kennewick police responded after a speeding Audi ran a red light and struck a grey Volvo driven by a 17-year-old who was treated for minor injuries—38-year-old Jake Musser was arrested on suspicion of DUI and reckless driving.

A new educational project will transform trails along the Columbia River into a scale model of the solar system, with 13 monuments planned in Tri-Cities—10 under construction and three completed—and two additional displays slated for Prosser and Benton City, where concrete-poured basalt slabs will include a QR code linking to more details.

The U.S. Department of Education has cut nearly $5 million in funding for the Heritage University and ESD 105 programs—these programs train school-based mental health providers—and officials are appealing the decision while seeking alternative funding to support students and local school districts.

The WA State Department of Ecology has launched a Bring Your Own Cup campaign to cut waste—local coffee shops offer discounts to customers who pledge to use reusable cups.

The effort urges residents to check an online map for shops joining the program and to keep their cups ready to help cut down on the 50-billion single-use cups thrown away each year.

Coffee shops and customers in Richland are joining WA’s Bring Your Own Cup campaign to cut waste by using reusable cups.

The state Department of Ecology encourages residents to pledge on its website — an interactive map shows local shops offering discounts — and to keep their cups nearby to support the effort.

The May water report shows that irrigation districts such as Kennewick, Columbia, Wapato, Kittitas, and Roza could face watering limits later this summer due to below-average reservoir storage — with senior water rights receiving full allotments and junior rights limited to about 51%. The Bureau of Reclamation will update the forecast monthly to monitor changing conditions.

The Energy Northwest Columbia Generating Station in Richland was fined $4,000 by the Department of Ecology for an oil spill that spilled 282 gallons of lubricating oil, with 145 gallons entering the Columbia River (after a cooling system seal failed on June 13, 2024).

The spill was reported late to the Emergency Management Division, which contributed to the fine.

Zac Grooms Live Performance

5-11 p.m. — Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of music from a talented local artist and Nashville recording star.

Act Two: Setting the Stage for Tomorrow!

The theme is Act Two: Setting the Stage for Tomorrow! Guests will enjoy a delicious plated dinner, exceptional local wines, and an opportunity to experience a top-tier touring performer, offering a glimpse of the world-class talent the future Mid-Columbia Performing Arts Center will bring to the Tri-Cities. This exciting night isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action. Funds raised will sustain ACTF’s operations, ensuring we can continue advocating for a dedicated home for the performing arts—one that will host touring productions, elevate local talent, and transform our region into a true cultural hub.

Sip & Silent Reading Experience

2-4 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with fellow book lovers while sipping wine and diving into your favorite reads.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free entry — Test your trivia skills with friends while enjoying wine and food in a cozy atmosphere.

Hike Wine Dine at Kitzke Cellars

4-7 p.m. — Kitzke Cellars — $47 per person — Enjoy a delightful evening of hiking, wine tasting, and dining catered by Pacific Pasta and Grill.

Alumni Bowling Night

5-7 p.m. — Atomic Bowl — 2 FREE games and shoe rental — Enjoy a casual evening of bowling and reconnect with fellow alumni.

Spring Gala - Lights, Camera, IMPACT!

3-8 p.m. — At Michele's — Ticket pricing available online — Celebrate with a Hollywood-themed evening of dinner, auctions, and stories to support local seniors.

Abilities Uncorked

6-10 p.m. — J. Bookwalter Winery & Richland Tasting Room — Cost undisclosed — Experience a strolling dinner adventure with gourmet food and wines benefiting Columbia Ability Alliance.