Good morning, Pasco.

In Pasco, Easterday Produce Co and Bunger Farms supply record-setting potatoes for McDonald's fries as Washington soil produces more per acre than Idaho did in 2024.

The Washington State Potato Commission supports these growers—highlighting the state's emerging role in the potato market.

Allegiant Travel Co. announced a new nonstop route from Pasco airport to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana that will begin in February — this route is one of 30 new routes connecting 35 cities and offers one-way fares as low as $59.

The addition increases travel options for the community and follows other new California routes from the Tri-Cities announced this year.

The operator of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory laid off 68 employees effective Nov.

18 due to unforeseen business circumstances driven by funding uncertainties and changing federal mission priorities. More than 40 workers were based at the Richland campus—others worked in Seattle, Oregon or remotely—covering roles in IT, engineering, and administration.

A survey shows that a classic Thanksgiving dinner for 10 in the West region costs about $67 while some Tri-Cities stores offer options for under $50 — prices vary and a meal may cost $7 to $10 per person even as turkey prices have dropped.

Shoppers will compare pre-made meals and grocery options as they plan their Thanksgiving feasts.

A recent AWB survey of over 400 employers showed that three out of four Washington businesses were hit by tax hikes, with 65% naming taxes as their biggest concern and over half raising prices to offset rising expenses.

The report noted that only 14% plan to expand while companies face high health care, tariff, and supply-chain costs — factors that have weakened confidence in the state’s economic outlook.

Communities In Schools of Benton-Franklin is launching its Empower Youth Mentoring Program to match youth in grade 3 to grade 12 and young adults ages 18 to 24 with caring adult mentors who commit to two hours each month+ the program provides mentor training and background checks to ensure safe and positive matches.

A recent poll showed that many parents in Pasco believe that teacher training, more school counselors, and expanded inclusion efforts make schools safer than additional police or active shooter drills—supporting a focus on students' emotional well-being.

Health officials have warned that a new H3N2 flu variant with extra mutations may reduce the current vaccine's effectiveness as hospitalizations increased in Canada and the UK.

Washington residents should monitor local health updates—especially if the variant spreads locally—and consider an updated flu shot if necessary.

Health officials said that 31 infants were hospitalized with botulism after using the recalled ByHeart formula, and investigators still found the product on store shelves in Oregon, Minnesota and Arizona—officials warn parents and caregivers to stop using any remaining formula and return it for a refund.

A recent survey finds that 63% of Americans now favor Thanksgiving sides over turkey, and food science shows that methods like dry brining+spatchcocking improve flavor and safety in cooking.

Experts say these modern techniques help hosts balance tradition with better taste and efficiency.