Good morning, Richland.

Data from Benton Franklin Trends showed that 124 people were without homes in Benton and Franklin Counties, down from 914 reported in 2008 — the decline is significant.

Officials noted that the count did not include those staying with family or living in cars — the figure may understate the true situation.

Perrie N. Robitaille, a 77-year-old unopposed Kahlotus city council-elect, died in a crash north of Pasco on November 25th when his vehicle was hit at 6:30 a.m. after he failed to yield— the other driver was uninjured.

Arlene’s Flowers—a local store closed since March after 48 years and legal battles over wedding services—has filed for bankruptcy under new owner Kim Solheim.

Business records show the shop’s revenue dropped from over $560,000 in past years to $131,406 this year while liabilities reached $286,000—if approved, the bankruptcy will force a sale of its assets to pay creditors.

Washington state fined Regence Blue Shield $550K for not showing that its mental health benefits match its medical coverage — the fine will go to the general fund as the state works to enforce parity laws.

The company said it has made changes and will meet state rules in the future.

The Department of Energy is launching the Genesis Mission — a plan to use artificial intelligence to boost scientific research and double the productivity of scientific spending over the next ten years.

The initiative involves work by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and will use public-private partnerships to advance discoveries.

Local reporting examines the debate over cash payments as retail stores in our state increasingly turn to cashless systems while King and Snohomish Counties require businesses to accept cash.

Federal law makes cash legal tender only for debts, and Congress has proposed a Payment Choice Act to require cash for sales of $500 and under (a move already in effect in some states).

Providence will lay off 57 workers from Richland and Walla Walla hospitals due to financial pressures and cuts to Medicaid and federal subsidies — the job cuts include management, administrative, and patient care roles and will take effect Jan.

20 — affected workers can apply for open positions at Providence facilities.

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.

Pilates in the Vineyard

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Complimentary wine included — Celebrate the season with Pilates, music, and holiday cheer in a beautiful vineyard setting.