Good morning, Richland.

Heidi Nelson, a retired educator, created Viva la Musica to bring diverse music and hip-hop into lessons that blend history with culture.

The program is offered for students at Ochoa and Stevens Middle and Pasco High and may expand soon—its growth driven by cuts in music education funding.

Van Cummings, a former Kennewick High School principal from Richland, was chosen by Eastern Washington school boards to join the Washington State School Board and will begin his term in January.

He replaces Ryan Brault and brings 40 years of education experience—serving as a teacher and administrator—to support local control and student success.

The Kiona-Benton City School District’s two-year $4.9 million levy failed by 39 votes this month and officials warned that without the local tax revenue another $1 million may be cut from the 2026 budget — a move that could affect sports and elective programs.

A school board meeting on Nov. 24 will outline the next steps for the district.

The Bateman Island causeway is set to be removed next month after studies showed it harmed local salmon—Pipkin Incorporated will handle the $1.2 million project, though environmental factors may delay completion.

Washington lawns are soggy due to many days of rain, clay soil, and cold nights—factors that make water sit on top of the ground.

Experts warn residents to avoid heavy foot traffic on their yards until a dry spell improves drainage.

Women of Wisdom TriCities introduced Richland's first Level 3 fast-charging site for the EV Car Share program at 1295 Fowler St—part of a plan to add 60 Level 3 and 66 Level 2 ports—and is expanding options under the Washington EV Charging Program.

The City of Richland said South George Washington Way will face traffic delays starting November 19 due to daily lane closures for demolition, patching, and signal upgrades—drivers should use alternate routes and follow posted signs.

The Pasco City Council voted four to two to end fluoridation in the city’s drinking water, joining Kennewick and Richland in not adding fluoride.

The council made its decision after a 90-day public notice period and discussion of a November 2026 ballot measure.

A new study shows that general anesthesia is safe for C-sections and can be a good option for women who feel too much pain with nerve blockers.

Researchers reviewed 36 trials and nearly 3500 births—babies did not face higher NICU risks with general anesthesia.

The H1 Unlimited Racing Series named the Tri-Cities Water Follies Race Site of the Year for 2025 after strong fan turnout and improved safety measures proved the event's excellence.

The award may boost local business as organizers plan upgrades for an even bigger race weekend next summer on the Columbia River—adding more teams, sponsorships and visitors.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free entry — Test your knowledge over wine and food with friends in a fun trivia showdown.

Motley 2 Tribute Performance

7-11 p.m. — Rays Golden Lion — $12 pre-sale, $15 at the door — Experience the energy of the west coast's best Motley Crue tribute band live.