Good morning, Richland.

Richland celebrated the grand reopening of the revamped Howard Amon Park playground where community members enjoyed the ziplines and inclusive play areas — the upgrade is meant to offer accessible fun for all visitors.

Residents in the Tri-Cities remembered the Mount St. Helens eruption on its 45th anniversary as they recalled the day when 57 lives were lost and the land was changed.

Arnold and Donna Boothe, who have lived in Pasco since the event, said the dark skies and falling ash left a strong mark on their memories.

State Sen. Nikki Torres signed Senate Bill 5004—Alyssa’s Law—to improve emergency response in K-12 schools by requiring silent panic alarms and real-time communication tools.

School districts must work with law enforcement and report progress by October 1 with a statewide report due by December 1.

Benton County Sheriff's Office swore in K9 Sir Edward (Eddy) and K9 Riff on Monday, May 19, giving them personalized badges and a paw print oath.

The department said the two dogs have already made positive contributions alongside their handlers.

Researchers found that people living near green spaces were 13% less likely to smoke and 31% less likely to drink daily—regular visits to nature also helped reduce smoking urges.

The study suggests that nature-based approaches may lessen risky health behaviors across diverse communities.

Today the Benton-Franklin Health District is reporting a rise in norovirus cases and urging residents to wash hands, stay home when sick, and disinfect surfaces using EPA-approved products (a key step to prevent spread).

The virus can cause stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea, and those at higher risk are advised to seek medical care if symptoms last more than two days.

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.