Good morning, Richland.

A new fundraiser, Rally for Ron, has launched today in Kennewick to support Swampy's BBQ owner Ron Swanby during his cancer treatment; the campaign aims to raise $25k through donations + T-shirt sales and will run until Oct.

5, with extra funds benefiting Tri-Cities Cancer Center.

On Monday, firefighters said the Hagen Fire was 50% contained and evacuation orders were reduced as crews kept monitoring the situation.

Gabriela Whitemarsh, a bilingual teacher from Pasco High School and Teacher of the Year, will serve as the keynote speaker at WSU Tri-Cities’ Fall 2026 Education Summit on Oct.

10 — she will discuss the need for human connection in a tech age; professionals can register through Oct. 1.

Governor Ferguson expanded his wildfire emergency proclamation to include Benton, Kittitas, Columbia, Grant, and Whitman counties, extending eviction protections and state aid eligibility until Sept.

30.

Toxic algae have been detected at McNary Wildlife Refuge near Finley today, and health officials urge visitors to avoid water contact (including pets) to prevent illness.

Signs of discolored water or scum indicate areas to steer clear of during your visit.

A Franklin County resident tested positive for West Nile Virus and a mosquito pool was confirmed by the Benton-Franklin Health District — the first since 2021.

Officials have increased control measures and urge residents to use EPA Registered repellent and drain standing water to lower risks.

On Sunday, Sept. 20, nearly 1,000 athletes will tackle a 1.2-mile Columbia River swim, 56-mile bike loop and 13.1-mile run finishing at Columbia Point Park plus Richland will implement temporary traffic changes and call for volunteer support along the route.