Good morning, Richland.

Biking enthusiasts in the Tri-Cities can join the Bike Expo as part of National Bike Month, which offers bike safety tips and local vendors including Ben Franklin Transit + REI.

The Inland Empire Century Ride will let riders choose from four distance options and a trail cleanup will take place on May 17.

Biking enthusiasts in the Tri-Cities have a chance to join National Bike Month events including the Tri-Cities Bike Expo and the Inland Empire Century Ride, where visitors can learn about bike safety and enjoy rides of 25, 50, 75, or 100 miles.

The expo will feature food vendors and ride support, with a trail cleanup scheduled (May 17) and a raffle drawing for supporters (June 4) planned later this month.

Washington State Patrol is looking for an older-model red SUV with rear-end damage that fled the scene of a motorcycle collision near the Edison Street exit on State Route 240 at 6:57 a.m., where the injured rider was taken to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland—witnesses reported the vehicle left quickly.

Rudy Peña of Rudy's Pepperblends grew local peppers to create pepper blends + salsa mixes and meat rubs, and his flagship Tri-City Blend won an award on May 7.

A 2024 report shows tourism in the Tri-Cities broke records with over $630 million in visitor spending—fueling 5,883 local jobs and generating $77.5 million in tax revenue for public services.

The report notes that the IRONMAN 70.3 event attracted 2,300 athletes and 118 scheduled events will add about $69 million to the local economy in 2025.

Hanford High School students Emma Yuan, Tiffany Qian, and Sophia Chen earned second place in the world in the Entrepreneurship — International Business Plan category at the DECA International Career Development Conference held April 25—30 in Orlando, Florida.

They competed against more than 26,000 DECA members and demonstrated strong teamwork and business skills.

Fresh asparagus, peas and radishes are in season in Richland as local farmers supply markets and restaurants with these nutritious vegetables, and home cooks are using them in light meals.

The vegetables are celebrated for their health benefits—boosting local seasonal dining.

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.