Good morning, Richland.

County lease negotiations for the Benton Franklin Fair have stalled, with fair director Lori Lancaster warning that a proposal could add several hundred thousand dollars to costs & limit the fair board’s input.

The event will run from Tuesday, August 19 through Saturday, August 23 & officials work to reach a more inclusive agreement before it begins.

Washington State University Tri-Cities and Visit Tri-Cities will host a free Tourism and Hospitality Service Excellence Workshop aimed at improving customer service skills — the event will take place on Wednesday, August 20, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Richland Community Center.

After closing on August 12, the Rite Aid at 101 north Ely Street in Kennewick reopened on August 13 morning as a CVS Pharmacy—keeping its 24-hour service for customers.

CVS said the change is part of a larger strategy to grow its presence in the Tri-Cities region.

PNNL asked staff to volunteer for separation to address expected federal spending cuts — eligible employees must apply by Sept.

5 to receive severance and benefits. Battelle noted that if not enough staff opt in, further layoffs will follow.

Kadlec Regional Medical Center was named the best regional hospital in central Washington in the 2025-2026 U.S. News rankings—showing its strong commitment to quality care since 1944—and it now serves nearly a half million people across the area.

The Selena Experience with Fonozis

7-10 p.m. — Clover Island Inn — Cost TBA — Experience an extraordinary Selena tribute that transports you back to 1995 with every song.

Benton Franklin County Fair

Varies — Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo — Entry fee varies — Enjoy the diverse attractions of a beloved local fair with rides, exhibits, and rodeo fun.

DEAL: Grateful Dead Tribute Performance

9 PM – 12 AM — The Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant and Lounge — Ticketed event — Experience high-energy psychedelic renditions of Grateful Dead classics from Seattle's vibrant electric quartet.

Three Rivers Saxtette

5-8 p.m. — The Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant and Lounge — No Cover — Enjoy a delightful dinner show with the popular Saxtette ensemble, a fun twist on traditional music.

Plutonium Man Triathlon

9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — Washington State University Tri-Cities — $55-$70 — Compete in a thrilling triathlon with Olympic and sprint distance options along the Columbia River.

Tumbleweed Music Festival 2025

3:30-9:30 p.m. — Howard Amon Park — Free entry — Experience live performances from talented musicians including award-winning singer/songwriter Barrie Dempsey.

Tomato Tasting and Lecture with Schreiber Farms

6:30-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — $30 entry, $25 for wine club members — Experience a unique blend of tomato tasting and wine pairing education.

Fiery Foods Festival

11 AM – 7 PM — Peanuts Park — Varies by vendor — Experience the ultimate celebration of spice with contests, food trucks, and local flavors.

Chavo Guerrero Wrestling Event

6-9 p.m. — Jokers Comedy Club — Free venue parking — Witness WWE and WCW legend Chavo Guerrero alongside Reactivate wrestlers in an all-ages wrestling show.

Zumbathon 2025 - at the Richland Community Center, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Join fellow Zumbies in a Zumbathon that brings our community together in support of Grace Clinic, the only free healthcare clinic in the Tri-Cities. Whether you're a seasoned Zumba enthusiast or a first-timer, this heart healthy event is your chance to dance for a cause, connect with friends, and win a prize - all while support a vital mission.