Good morning, Richland.

Sarah Clasen, an off-duty trooper facing vehicular homicide charges from a suspected DUI fatal crash on March 1, 2025, intends to plead not guilty at her arraignment on September 24—she is not in custody after declining field sobriety tests and posting a .17 BAC.

Richland School District completed its September meeting where board members recommended a maximum education levy rate of $2.50 per $1,000 plus the average homeowner cost of about $1,150 annually to support programs like special education and school resource officers.

Voters will decide on the levy during the February 10 election, and the board will finalize the rate in the coming months.

Columbia Basin College celebrated its 70th anniversary on September 8 by renaming the Social Sciences and World Languages building—honoring former president Dr. Richard Cummins—and announced plans to refurbish the legacy Hawk sculpture—which will be unveiled in fall.

Current president Dr. Rebekah Woods said the college marked decades of service and progress that benefit students and the community.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Sept.

9 that media reports of a change in the Hanford cleanup—such as halting work on a nearly ready treatment facility—are not true. DOE said it is continuing to test and operate the facility to ensure safe waste disposal as cleanup work goes on.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon will take place in West Richland on September 21st and volunteers are needed to help athletes along the 56-mile course—city officials note that key streets will experience heavy cyclist and vehicular traffic during the morning hours.

Please plan ahead if you are traveling near George Washington Way, Queensgate, or the route from Belmont to Paradise.

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.

Taverna Tagaris 20th Anniversary Celebration

Time TBA — Taverna Tagaris — Reservations recommended — Celebrate two decades with live music, drink and food specials, and exciting prizes.

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.

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.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy wine while competing in a fun trivia competition.

Harvest Moon Benefit Concert

Arts Center Task Force and Big Bro Joe Foundation are teaming up to host an unforgettable night of live country music At Michele’s! This benefit concert features Nashville recording artist Trey Taylor along with some exciting local acts (soon to be announced).

Mike Pinto Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant and Lounge — Ticketed event — Enjoy a great live performance from the talented Mike Pinto, influenced by SoCal vibes and reggae style.