Good morning, Pasco.

Over 500 park professionals from Washington and surrounding states are gathering in Kennewick this week for the WRPA Conference— a tradeshow for Parks and Recreation experts.

Officials like Nick Farline and Jesse Rice highlighted new upgrades at Lawrence Scott Park and discussed the many career paths in park planning.

Today, a school bus carrying children collided with a pickup truck at a busy intersection in Kennewick—one person was taken to the hospital.

Kennewick will welcome its first Chick-fil-A on June 19 (the grand opening date announced by Apple Valley News) as locals in the Tri-Cities prepare for a new dining option.

Martinique Haworth of Mimi's Playhouse said on May 14th that she chose Tri-Cities for her indoor playroom for children 0—6 years old to offer a safe and engaging space for local families.

Pasco Police arrested a man for allegedly driving under the influence after he crashed into fencing on I-182 near Exit-12 at 2:10 a.m., which led to a left-lane closure until 3:30 a.m. and saw him treated for minor injuries by medics.

Samantha Shulins-Briggs, a math teacher at McLoughlin Middle School, was awarded May’s Classroom Makeover from WaFd Bank for building strong bonds with her students—she attends sports games and leads a Dungeons and Dragons club to help them learn and grow.

She uses extra time after school to make sure students feel confident in math and supported throughout their changes.

Kennewick School District announced that six schools were recognized by the Washington State School Recognition Program for the 2023–24 school year.

The awards honor schools for closing gaps, achievement, and growth, with only 16% of state schools earning the distinction.

Pasco-based United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 598, which began with the Manhattan Project, invests $3.5 million yearly in a five-year training program that prepares 240 apprentices in plumbing, pipefitting, welding, & service technician skills at a 20,000-square-foot facility on North Road 28.

A survey of 2,000 parents found they spent roughly 96 hours a year fighting over screen time with their kids.

The study revealed many parents—67%—fear losing precious time with their children and worry about online threats and reduced social skills.

Big River Race

8-11 a.m. — Chiawana Park — Various entry fees — Experience a scenic run along the Columbia River with options for the whole family.

Pasco Chamber June Luncheon

11:45 a.m. — Red Lion Hotel Pasco Airport & Conference Center — Cost unknown — Network with local businesses while enjoying a midday meal.

Sacajawea Bluegrass Festival

10 AM – 10 AM — Sacajawea Historical State Park — Free entry — Enjoy a weekend of bluegrass music, dance, and workshops in the heart of nature.

Northwest Kickboxing League 10

5-10 p.m. — HAPO Center — $35-$75 — Experience the excitement of amateur Muay Thai and Kickboxing featuring top fighters from the PNW.