Columbia Ability Alliance (CAA) is proud to announce the hiring of David Haldeman as its Divisional Programs Manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the agency’s Employment Services and Empowerment Place resource center, fostering partnerships with employers, and driving initiatives to empower individuals with disabilities and barriers in the community. Haldeman brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having previously served at Columbia Ability Alliance as an Employment Specialist. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in providing resources to the community and supporting clients in their journey towards employment. "I am thrilled to return to Columbia Ability Alliance in this new capacity," said Haldeman. "Having previously been part of this dedicated team, I am excited to contribute to the organization's mission of empowering individuals with disabilities and making a tangible difference in their lives." As Divisional Programs Manager, Haldeman will focus on increasing the number of job placements and positioning Columbia Ability Alliance as the premier choice for employment services in the community. His expertise in providing resources and employment services to clients with barriers will be instrumental in driving the organization towards its goals. "The primary goal of our Employment Services program is to assist clients in finding meaningful employment opportunities and supporting them in maintaining their jobs," he explained. "By actively engaging with the community and fostering partnerships with employers, we aim to create inclusive workplaces that benefit individuals with disabilities and contribute to the overall well-being of our community." For more information about Columbia Ability Alliance and its programs, visit columbiaabilityalliance.com.
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Prosser Memorial Health proudly announces the addition of Mariana Neeway, PMHNP-BC, to its Benton City and Prosser Clinics. Mariana brings a wealth of experience as a certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric care. A native of Eastern Washington, Mariana has deep roots in the region, having spent over a decade serving the community in the Tri-Cities area. Her journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Washington State University in Pullman, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at WSU in Spokane. She furthered her education with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric and Mental Health at WSU Tri-Cities. Since 2019, she has served at WSU Tri-Cities as a Clinical Assistant Professor. Mariana's passion for mental health advocacy was ignited during her tenure as a nurse in the Pasco School District, where she recognized the pressing need for mental health support in the community. At Prosser & Benton City Clinics, Mariana offers a comprehensive range of psychiatric services including mental health evaluations, medication management, crisis intervention, and coordination of care. Beyond her professional pursuits, Mariana finds joy in running marathons and spending quality time with her husband, two dogs, and four cats. Prosser Memorial Health is thrilled to have Mariana Neeway on board, enriching our commitment to providing accessible and high-quality psychiatric care to the communities we serve. For more information about Mariana or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Prosser Clinic at 509.786.1576 or the Benton City Clinic at 509.588.4075. Visit us online at prosserhealth.org for additional details. AtkinsRéalis, a fully integrated professional services and project management company with offices around the world, opened its new $20 million AtkinsRéalis Technology Center (ATC) in Richland, Washington today. The ATC will be used for the further development and application of innovative nuclear and environmental cleanup technologies, Engineering Net Zero (ENZ) and hydrogen clean energy advancements, digital solutions and robotics implementation.
“As a company, we are constantly researching and refining impactful new approaches across the entire end-to-end lifecycle of an asset,” said Joe St. Julian, President, Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis. “From developing clean nuclear energy solutions, to pioneering safer ways of disposing legacy waste material, having access to a world-class facility like this enhances our team and partners’ ability to innovate, collaborate and lay the groundwork that will enable us to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.” The new AtkinsRéalis Technology Center is adjacent to the existing AtkinsRéalis Engineering Laboratory (AEL) and the Washington State University Tri-Cities (WSUTC) Campus. Construction of the facility began in September 2022 and was completed in 15 months. The ATC features 16,000 square feet of open “hot desk” office space designed to foster teamwork and collaboration as well as traditional private offices. Two workshops and an additional 16,000 square feet of a 59-foot high-bay testing area with an overhead crane complete the cutting edge testbed facility. The opening of the ATC furthers AtkinsRéalis’ plans for a campus-like technology hub in the Pacific Northwest as part of the Company’s rapid growth across US markets. “This beautiful space clearly demonstrates our commitment to continuing nearly 20 years of successful engineering and technology development along side Washington State University, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the Department of Energy here in the Tri-Cities Community,” said Jim Rugg, President, US Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis. “We look forward to seeing these partnerships flourish in this new space.” The City of Richland issued a proclamation, delivered by Mayor Theresa Richardson, declaring Wednesday, April 17th as “AtkinsRéalis Day”. A grand opening ceremony was held to mark the occasion with remarks by Mr. St. Julian and Mr. Rugg, the US Department of Energy’s Manager of Richland Operations Office and Office of River Protection at the Hanford Site Brian Vance, Mayor Richardson, WSU Tri Cities Vice Chancellor Dr. Kathleen McAteer and Tri City Development Council CEO Karl Dye. Guests participated in a “Tour of Technologies,” showcasing capabilities at the ATC including:
Gesa, a community-focused credit union, announced today it is partnering with three Tri-Cities schools to launch new co-branded Affinity Debit Cards to raise funds for programs benefiting local students. With every swipe, the new co-branded Affinity Debit Cards will support Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School, River’s Edge High School, and Tri-Tech Skills Center students.
“This initiative underscores Gesa's commitment to our community and provides a tangible way for our members to support education and join us in giving back through their everyday purchases. We are honored to bring this impactful program to more schools so that we can continue to make a difference in the lives of students throughout the region,” said Brandon Allison, AVP of Training, Education and Community Relations at Gesa Credit Union. Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School The Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School Affinity Card launches today, and is the first partnership between Gesa and Tri-Cities Prep. “We are so proud to partner with Gesa Credit Union as a member of their Affinity Card program,” said Katie Nelson, Development Director at Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School. “This program gives our students, their families, and our entire community a way to support Tri-Cities Prep by doing something they already do as part of their routine - using their Tri-Cities Prep debit card to make everyday purchases.” River’s Edge High School The River’s Edge High School Affinity Card is the latest addition to Gesa’s existing partnership with the Richland School District. The new card will launch on April 17. “We are excited to continue our outstanding partnership with Gesa, offering River’s Edge High School students and families a new way to display their Firebird pride,” said Shawna Dinh, Public Information Officer for the Richland School District. “Everyday purchases made with the Affinity Debit Card will provide support for school programs and guarantee equitable access for all River’s Edge students.” Tri-Tech Skills Center As part of an existing partnership with the Kennewick School District, the new Affinity Debit Card for Tri-Tech Skills Center launches on April 18. “We are thrilled to provide students with the opportunity to engage in real marketing initiatives through our continued partnership with Gesa Credit Union and its Affinity Card program,” said Robyn Chastain, Executive Director of Communications & Public Relations at Kennewick School District. “Not only does this program give our community a way to show their Tri-Tech pride, but they also support students across our district by doing something they already do every day – using their debit card to purchase things like groceries, gas, and households.” Program Impact Gesa’s Co-Branded Affinity Debit Card Program supports local schools by donating money to partner districts each time a card is used. Launched in 2015, to date the Affinity Debit Card Program has raised more than $1.34 million for local partner school districts and universities, awarding more than $340,000 in 2023 alone. The co-branded Affinity Debit Cards are available exclusively at Gesa Credit Union and are free to Gesa members with a checking account. There is no fee for members to switch their card to any of the school designs. Anyone who lives, works, or worships in Washington is eligible to become a member and support their local schools. For more information about Gesa Credit Union and its Affinity Debit Card Program, visit www.gesa.com. Tri-Cities Chaplaincy, the leading provider of hospice care, bereavement support, and grief services in Benton and Franklin counties, is proud to announce the publication of its 2023 Impact Report. The report highlights the organization's dedication to serving the community and the significant milestones achieved in the past year.
In 2023, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy continued its mission to provide compassionate care and support to individuals and families facing end-of-life journeys and coping with grief. Key highlights from the report include: Hospice Care: Tri-Cities Chaplaincy provided care and support to 954 hospice patients in Benton and Franklin counties, ensuring that each individual received personalized and dignified end-of-life care. Adult Bereavement Program: The organization's adult bereavement program extended support to 1,067 participants, offering a safe space for individuals to navigate the complex emotions associated with loss and grief. Cork's Place Kids Grief Center: Tri-Cities Chaplaincy's Cork's Place Kids Grief Center served 136 children and 144 adults, providing specialized tools and resources to help young ones and their families cope with the loss of a loved one. Volunteer Engagement: The dedication and commitment of volunteers remained instrumental in Tri-Cities Chaplaincy's operations, with volunteers contributing a total of 4,839 hours of service, offering comfort and companionship to those in need. Fundraising Success: Through various fundraising initiatives and community support, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy raised a total of $1.14 million in 2023. These funds are vital in sustaining the organization's impactful programs and ensuring that essential services continue to reach those who require them most. "2023 was a year of profound impact and meaningful connections for Tri-Cities Chaplaincy," said Laurie Jackson, CEO of Tri-Cities Chaplaincy. "We are deeply grateful to our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners whose unwavering support allows us to fulfill our mission and make a difference in the lives of individuals and families facing life-limiting illness and grief." The publication of the 2023 Impact Report underscores Tri-Cities Chaplaincy's commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement as it strives to meet the evolving needs of the community. To access the full 2023 Impact Report and learn more about Tri-Cities Chaplaincy's programs and services, please visit TCCBestLife.org/about-chaplaincy. Local students who wish to apply for Yakima Federal Savings and Loan’s annual scholarship program will have a few extra days to complete their applications. The local bank’s deadline for its Awards for Academic Excellence has been moved to April 22nd. The program is funded with $217,500 for scholarships for area graduating seniors. The individual awards are $2,500 each.
Applicants must reside in Yakima, Kittitas, Benton or Franklin counties, graduate in the top 10% of their class and have demonstrated high moral character, industriousness, and ambition during their high school career. Also required with the application is a one-page letter of motivation outlining future plans, school and life experiences, including any challenges faced and overcome and the impact of receiving an award. Students can review requirements and apply online now at YakimaFed.com/scholarship. The new deadline for application is April 22nd, 2024. The selection committee will award up to two applicants from each area school. Home schooled students are also eligible. Awards are funded upon student enrollment for the fall semester following graduation. Award checks are issued payable to the school in which the student is enrolled. Recipients will be notified by June 3, 2024. Yakima Federal has provided over $2,900,000 in college scholarships to local graduating high school seniors through its Award for Academic Excellence program over the past 47 years. Yakima Federal Savings and Loan is Washington State chartered Mutual Savings Bank with 130 employees and over two billion dollars in assets. Yakima Federal serves more than 55,000 customers with products focusing on checking, savings and home loans. Yakima Federal is open to everyone residing in Washington and Oregon and is a member of the FDIC. Learn more at yakimafed.com. The City of Richland (City) is excited to launch the search for our next Chief of Police. With the position now posted, we're eager to welcome a dynamic and visionary public safety leader to join our community.
The City has teamed up with Mosaic Public Partners, a distinguished consulting firm specializing in public sector recruitment and organizational development. Mosaic's wealth of experience and strategic approach will be instrumental in identifying the ideal candidate to lead our police department. Anticipated Timeline: • Open Recruitment – Applications accepted beginning Friday, April 12, 2024 • First Review of Applications – May 13, 2024 • Finalists Selected for Interviews – May 20, 2024 • Finalists Announced – Early June 2024 (bios of finalists to be shared with public) • In-Person Interviews & Public Engagement – Mid-June 2024 (date to be announced) • Background Investigation – July 2024 • Candidate Announcement – August 2024 Community members are encouraged to actively participate in the selection process by attending a community engagement event (date to be announced). The event will allow citizens to meet the finalists, share insights, and help shape the future of the Richland Police Department. The feedback will be invaluable in ensuring the best candidate is identified to serve Richland. Under RCW 43.101.095, candidates will undergo a thorough background investigation. This process is essential to ensuring the integrity and suitability of our future Chief of Police. City Manager Jon Amundson states, “Mosaic Public Partners has a demonstrated ability to recruit top candidates, specifically law enforcement executives. I am confident their energy and industry experience will assist in identifying our next Chief of Police. I encourage members of the public who wish to meet our finalists to attend the community engagement event and provide feedback as we make this important decision.” Interested candidates can view the application and further details at www.mosaicpublic.com/careers. For inquiries about the hiring process or recruitment, please contact the City of Richland Human Resources Director at lpaulsen@ci.richland.wa.us or 509-942-7719. Leadership Tri-Cities, a premier leadership development program serving the Tri-Cities community, is pleased to announce the opening of its application period for the upcoming class. This renowned program has a rich history of empowering emerging leaders and fostering collaboration for the betterment of our region.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: Established in 1994, Leadership Tri-Cities has been at the forefront of cultivating leadership excellence and civic engagement for over 27 years. The program was founded on the principles of fostering a deep understanding of the Tri-Cities area, developing effective leadership skills, and developing skilled leaders committed to driving positive change. Over 600+ alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to our community across various sectors including business, government, education, and nonprofit organizations. The program's alumni continue to play pivotal roles in shaping the future of the Tri-Cities region, embodying the program's mission of developing leaders who will be catalysts for positive change in the community. PROGRAM INFORMATION: Leadership Tri-Cities is an educational program that provides a forum to examine and dialog about issues facing our region. The course includes ten sessions focusing on various sectors and industries shaping our region, and leadership development. APPLICATION DETAILS: The application period for the upcoming Leadership Tri-Cities class is now open and will close on May 1, 2024. For more information about the program, application requirements, and key dates, please visit www.leadershiptricities.com/apply Port of Kennewick has transformed the outside of a shipping container-turned restroom at Columbia Gardens Wine & Artisan Village into public art.
A team with Mustang Signs installed vinyl wraps featuring colorful floral imagery designed by P.S. Media on the repurposed container’s exterior walls. Yellow floret and white puffball dandelions sweep across the container’s north wall facing the waterfront. Muralist Cameron Milton (MeltingMiltons.com) added finish touches, including painting an electrical conduit attached to the container transforming it into a large-scale stem. That single dandelion is positioned so people can stand alongside it and “make a wish” by pretending to blow away the pappus fluff. The south wall facing Columbia Drive features stylized images of Heliopsis False Sunflowers. The other container walls showcase vibrant images of Gaillardia Blanket Flowers (east side) and Black-Eyed Susans (west side) donated by local artist and photographer Victor Hubbard. “The port has identified public art as an essential element of economic development,” said Tim Arntzen, Port of Kennewick CEO. “The previously stark white container offered a perfect canvas to upscale a highly visible yet mundane industrial box, bringing new artwork to the wine and artisan village.” The container art joins the Mid-Columbia Latino Heritage Mural, Aspirations sculpture, Rolling Mass bus shelter and three utility-box art wrap installations at Columbia Gardens, located at 325 E. Columbia Gardens Way in Kennewick. The City of Richland is excited to kick off construction next week on the first phase of the West Village Community Park. The 33-acre park in Badger Mountain South will be adjacent to the new Fire Station 76 currently under construction on Trowbridge Boulevard.
The 4.5-acre Phase 1, expected to be completed by the end of 2024, will include parking, landscaping, grass play areas, space for a playground, and a comfort station. Phase 1 construction marks just the beginning, with the installation of playground equipment slated for Phase 2. Park plans began taking shape when the City of Richland sought public feedback on a draft long-range plan for the West Village Community Park in 2021 with two in-person public meetings, one Zoom meeting, and an online survey. Feedback from the community was impressive, with 306 responses received. For up-to-date information on the construction and to view long-range plans for the park, see www.ci.richland.wa.us/projects. |
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April 2024
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