Good morning, Richland.

United Way of Benton and Franklin Counties received a $5,000 grant from Mentor Washington — the fund will support their Attendance Matters program that pairs mentors with kids who struggle with school attendance.

Program leaders said the money will help keep kids feeling safe at school.

Residents in Tri-City Heights have grown tired of constant traffic noise, theft, and trash accumulation in a neighborhood caught between Benton County and Kennewick boundaries — local officials say they will soon clarify who is in charge of maintenance and safety.

Neighbors have organized cleanups and are urging city and county leaders to address issues like dangerous dead trees.

Kennewick firefighter Garrett Trappett took it upon himself to find his missing 77-year-old neighbor with dementia after learning she was unaccounted for—he found her injured and dehydrated, called for help, and later received the Citizen Service Award from Interim Benton County Sheriff. Trappett said he acted simply because he cared about his neighbor.

On October 8, nearly 20 firefighting crews responded to a fast-growing vegetation fire north of Benton City that was adjusted to about 62 acres—air support was requested as firefighters worked to protect nearby structures.

A fire started at Rattlesnake Ridge in Benton City on October 8 covering 100 acres with four agencies responding and no evacuations ordered while the cause remains unknown.

Renowned metalsmith Anne Krohn Graham brings her interactive aluminum art to Richland’s Gallery at the Park this October—her exhibit 'When Art is Passion' is free and dedicated to her late husband, Gene Futrell.

The show runs until November and features work that is part of the Smithsonian Museum's collections.

Port officials announced that after months of testing at Vista Field, PFAS chemicals were found only in one private lot among 47 sample points and construction resumed with two buildings nearly complete—officials continue to investigate how the chemicals reached that location while awaiting guidance from the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Drivers in Washington are reminded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to slow down in wet fall weather—Trooper Katherine Weatherwax shared five quick tips including leaving early, increasing following distance, using headlights, easing on the gas and brakes, and avoiding cruise control to help prevent sliding off roads.

Spokane-based credit union STCU opened its 50th branch on Columbia Center Boulevard at a former Umpqua Bank on Oct.

8 to expand its service area. The branch will hold a grand opening celebration from noon to 3 p.m. on Oct. 23—STCU now has 300,000 members and $6 billion in assets.

Benton County is accepting applications for its next sheriff after former Sheriff Tom Croskrey retired on Oct.

2. Interim Sheriff Mike Clark plans to seek the permanent role while candidates must apply by Friday, Oct. 17—interviews will be held during October and a forum is set for 6 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Island View Worship Center in Richland.

Today, a viral video showing maggots in food led the Benton Franklin Health District to inspect a Tri-Cities restaurant, and the Food Safety Supervisor confirmed the facility met routine inspection standards—officials said the restaurant remains open and safe to eat at.

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.

Kadabra Concert at Ray's Golden Lion

Time TBA — Ray's Golden Lion Restaurant — Tickets available now — Enjoy an entertaining night with Kadabra returning to the stage in Richland.