Good morning, Richland.

Grace Collective will host its annual Grace Gala on October 18 with bestselling author Bob Goff traveling from Uganda—he will speak to support wages for women entering an 18‑month paid job training program in 2026— as the nonprofit helps survivors of trafficking, addiction and incarceration rebuild their lives.

Local fire officials urge families to use safe lithium-ion battery practices—buy listed products, charge safely, and recycle responsibly—and to plan clear home escape routes during Fire Prevention Week running October 5 to 11.

The Red Cross invites residents to support fire survivors by volunteering and joining the annual Run for the Red Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, November 27 at Columbia Park.

WorkSource Columbia Basin in Kennewick will host a free career preparation workshop on Wednesday, Oct.

8 from 2 to 4 p.m. for veterans, National Guard members, and military spouses to improve resume writing and interview skills for civilian jobs—career counselors will provide mock interviews and personalized guidance.

Food banks in Richland and nearby areas received five to ten new clients each day as the government shutdown neared its seventh day — leaders warned that if the shutdown continues, more federal workers and furloughed employees will need food assistance.

Richland began a new phase of work at the three-way intersection of George Washington Way, Aaron Drive and Columbia Point Drive that will block northbound turns until construction ends at the end of November—drivers heading south can still turn left.

The project is part of plans to ease congestion and set the stage for downtown traffic changes next spring.

Washington lawmakers have delayed the plan to require plastic grocery bags to be thicker until January while raising the fee to 12 cents starting January; if retailers sell bags thicker than allowed before January 2028, shoppers will pay an extra 4 cents per bag—making the total cost 16 cents. Officials say the delay gives lawmakers time to review rules for single-use bags.

A small clinical trial found that the approved Alzheimer’s drug memantine improved social functioning in children with autism—80% of those with high brain glutamate levels responded better than peers on a placebo.

Researchers said more studies will determine if memantine can reliably boost social engagement in autism.

Costco pharmacies began offering Ozempic and Wegovy for $499 per month on Monday, Oct 6 with a valid prescription—this new option gives shoppers another way to get these popular medications while insurance coverage may vary.

Desert Sage Dental in Kennewick is offering a free smile makeover worth up to $50,000 for people needing major dental work—those interested should call the office soon to see if they qualify.

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.

Laveda Concert at Ray's Golden Lion

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Ray's Golden Lion Restaurant — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of live music featuring Laveda, a first-time performance in Richland.

Mac+Cheese and Wine Pairing Weekend

12-7 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Ticketed event — Indulge in mac & cheese masterpieces paired with divine Reserve wines for a weekend of culinary delight.

Gregory Rawlins Performance

5-8 p.m. — The Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant and Lounge — Entry fee not specified — Experience the heartfelt sounds of Gregory Rawlins as he showcases his extensive collection of original songs.

Halloween Candy & Wine Pairing

12-7 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Ticketed event — Discover which wines soften the fright of your favorite Halloween candies.

Treeus Performance

5-8 p.m. — The Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant and Lounge — Free entry — Experience Treeus in a dinner show featuring three part vocal harmony.

Tri-Cities Marathon

8 AM – 2 PM — Riverfront Hotel, Surestay Collection By Best Western — Registration required — Experience the thrill of racing in the scenic Tri-Cities Marathon.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6:30-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — No fee — Test your trivia knowledge while enjoying wine and food in a friendly competition.

Book Exchange at Barnard Griffin

2-4 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free to attend — Swap your favorite reads and discover new stories over drinks and snacks.