Downtown Pasco business owners who decorate their buildings with murals between now and December 20th can apply for up to $5,000 in reimbursement to help cover the cost of the art. 

The Paint Pasco Mural Reimbursement Program is designed to beautify the downtown in a way that supports local artists and promotes cultural expression. 

To qualify for reimbursement, the murals must be painted on downtown Pasco buildings, with the written consent of the building owner. The mural design cannot advertise a business, and must not include obscene, offensive, or discriminatory content. A subcommittee of the Pasco Arts & Culture Commission must approve the design before the project begins, and the mural must be protected by an anti-graffiti coating. 

To apply, business owners need to complete and submit the Paint Pasco Mural Reimbursement Program application form, get approval from the Arts & Culture Commission subcommittee, and start painting. Once the work is finished, they will need to send documentation, including a W9 Form, to the Arts & Culture Commission. The deadline to submit that documentation for reimbursement is December 20, 2024. 
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For more information, or to start the application process, artists and business owners can contact:  
Arts & Culture Commission Liaison  
Address: 525 N 3rd Ave  
Phone: 509-545-3458  
Email: [email protected]   
Website: www.pasco-wa.gov  

​Tri-Cities Chaplaincy is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant from the Wildhorse Foundation. The funds were used to upgrade the Cork's Place Adult Support Room, enhancing the environment where adult and caregiver support groups gather while their children attend Cork's Place programming.
 
The Cork's Place Kids Grief Center Adult Support Room, a cornerstone of our facility, is pivotal in providing a safe space for adults and caregivers to process their grief and find support. With the support of the Wildhorse Foundation grant, this room has been transformed into a welcoming and comfortable space for education and healing.
 
Improvements made:
Fresh paint to brighten and modernize the space
New lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere
Comfortable furniture to enhance relaxation and support
Shelving for better organization and accessibility of resources
 
"We are incredibly grateful to the Wildhorse Foundation for their generous support," said Tara Divers, Director of Philanthropy of Tri-Cities Chaplaincy. "This grant enables us to create a space that truly meets the needs of our community, offering a sanctuary for those on their grief journey."
Tri-Cities Chaplaincy remains committed to providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families navigating the complexities of grief. The enhancements to the Cork's Place Adult Support Room ensures that we continue to offer high-quality, supportive services in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
 
For more information about Tri-Cities Chaplaincy and our programs, please visit TCCBestLife.org.

Trios Health is pleased to announce that Steven Synder, a Registered Nurse, has been named as a recipient for The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses by Trios Health.

Steven has been an RN at Trios Health since 2001 and works night shift in the ER Department as a charge nurse and staff nurse.

“We are honored to recognize Steven with the DAISY Award® for his exceptional dedication and compassionate care,” said Lori Katterhagen, Trios Chief Nursing Officer. “He is an exemplary nurse whose ability to connect with patients on a deeply personal level, while consistently delivering the highest quality of nursing care, truly embodies the spirit of this award.”
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Steven was nominated by a co-worder, who shared, “Steven has worked for Trios for many years. Today after leaving his regular night shift, he returned with a huge bag full of clothes and shoes for a patient that was a victim of a fire last night. The patient lost all his belongings and his dog in the fire, so it was especially kind for Steven to care enough to donate clothes to this guy.”

The DAISY Award® is an international program started in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, whose family experienced first-hand the difference his nurses made in his care through clinical excellence and compassionate care. The family created The DAISY Award® to express gratitude to nurses and to enable other patients, families, and staff to thank and honor their special nurses.
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To nominate a nurse or to learn more about The DAISY Award®, visit TriosHealth.org/Daisy.

Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels is thrilled to announce the return of OktoberFeast, an exciting 5K fun run and community event, set to take place on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at 10 AM along the scenic Columbia River. This year, the organization aims to break the 500-participant mark, bringing together runners, walkers, families, and furry friends for a day of fitness, food, and fun, all in support of a vital cause.

OktoberFeast 2024 promises an unforgettable experience with something for everyone. Participants can choose between a competitive timed race or a leisurely walk, all while enjoying views of the Columbia River. After crossing the finish line, the festivities will continue at the Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels campus with a Bavarian-style lunch prepared by the organization’s talented kitchen team, a Kid Zone, a dog corner, and a biergarten featuring local craft brews.

This year, attendees will also have the chance to enjoy the popular Lamb Weston Fry Truck!

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, October 5th, 2024
• Time: 10 AM Start
• Location: Start and finish at 2600 North Columbia Center Blvd., Richland, WA
• Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/Richland/Oktoberfeast

Participants who opt for the OktoberFeast bundle will receive a collectible beer mug, a t-shirt, and their first drink on the house.

All proceeds from OktoberFeast 2024 will directly benefit Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels, which provides nutritious meals to older adults throughout Benton and Franklin Counties.

“We are excited to bring OktoberFeast back to the community this year and are determined to make it our biggest event yet,” said Steve Davis, Director at Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels. “We’re aiming to surpass 500 participants, and we hope to see everyone come out to support a great cause while enjoying a fantastic day.”
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Call for Sponsors: Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels is actively seeking sponsors for OktoberFeast 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Amanda Le Blanc at 509-736-0038 or [email protected] for more information.

Richland Lodging Tax Grant, formerly the Hotel Motel Tax Grant, is accepting applications through Friday, September 13, 2024.
 
To be considered for funding, proposals must be logistically held in Richland or evidence provided that lodging will increase in Richland. Proposals must also meet the criteria as established in State law (RCW 67.28.1815) and prohibits the use of tax receipts for any other purposes. The events or projects must be used solely for the purpose of paying all or any part of the cost of tourism promotion, acquisition of tourism-related facilities, or operation of a tourism-related facilities. For more information, see www.ci.richland.wa.us/LodgingTax.

Are you a culinary entrepreneur ready to elevate your business? The Pasco Specialty Kitchen (PSK), a dynamic hub for local food innovators, now offers vendors the chance to utilize its highly sought-after pass-through windows. Since 2003, PSK has been a cornerstone for food businesses in Pasco, providing the tools and support needed to grow and thrive in the community.
Imagine your delicious creations being just a step away from eager customers, thanks to PSK's prime location right across from Peanuts Park and the Pasco Farmers Market. That’s exactly what Justin Tjarks, owner of Pie Sharks, discovered when he moved his mini-pie business to PSK in early 2024. After starting his business at a different location, Tjarks found that PSK's pass-through window offered a unique opportunity to expand his reach.

"It's my own space, and it's got a window that faces the street right across from the Farmers Market every Saturday, so there's that guaranteed foot traffic," says Tjarks. He’s also seen a shift in the type of orders coming in. “Since I've been here at the window, I've been able to pick up some of those more large-scale, 24-pack orders to pick up through the window."

This could be your story, too! PSK's pass-through windows provide the perfect platform for local food entrepreneurs to connect directly with customers and grow their businesses in a supportive, community-oriented environment.

Why Choose Pasco Specialty Kitchen?
PSK is more than just a kitchen; it's a community. We offer a fully-equipped, licensed commercial kitchen that meets all health and safety standards set by the Health Department and the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Whether you're a baker, caterer, candy maker, or food truck owner, PSK provides the resources you need to transform your culinary dreams into a thriving business.

Get Started with PSK:
Becoming a PSK vendor is a straightforward process, but it's important to plan ahead. The application process typically takes 30-45 days to complete due to the various permits and licenses required. Once you're ready, our team will guide you through each step, ensuring you have everything you need to start selling your products at our pass-through windows.

What You’ll Need:

• A valid business license (apply through the Washington State Department of Revenue)
• Government-issued ID and business contact information
• Business liability insurance
• City of Pasco business endorsement
• Food handlers cards for the owner and any employees
• Compliance with Health Department regulations and a valid food vendor permit
  
  

Ready to Take the Leap?
The opportunities at Pasco Specialty Kitchen are waiting for you. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand, PSK offers an affordable, supportive environment to help you succeed. The $175 onboarding fee ensures you have access to all the resources and support you need to get started.

For more information on becoming a PSK vendor and taking advantage of our pass-through windows, contact Alma Aguirre, Pasco Specialty Kitchen Coordinator, at (509) 380-5111. Take advantage of this chance to grow your culinary business in the heart of Pasco!

Dr. Rachel Fidino, CEO and Founder of New U Women’s Clinic and Aesthetics in Kennewick was recently featured in US Weekly where she shared her expert insights on weight loss and hormone management for women.

https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/why-hormones-may-be-the-key-to-weight-management-for-women-over-35/

New U Women’s Clinic and Aesthetics has developed the unique cutting-edge therapies that have surpassed other weight loss programs with overwhelming success. The therapy is so popular that it is now available virtually anywhere in the U.S for both men and women.
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Starting in 2020 the New U Women’s Clinic offers a unique experience for women. A new clinic will be opening soon in Yakima. Both clinics provide a one-stop solution to handle virtually every aspect of a female’s life. Their mission focuses on treating the whole patient and her needs not just her diagnosis.

The City of Pasco is excited to announce the return of the Fiery Foods Festival, set to ignite the taste buds of residents and visitors on Saturday, September 14. This highly anticipated event will take place from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at Peanuts Park in Downtown Pasco and offer a sizzling array of activities for all ages.

Join us as we spice up the town with the captivating aroma of culinary arts and the thrill of our chili pepper contest. The day promises to be nothing less than hot and happening! Be one of the many people to witness and participate in the ultimate celebration of all things fiery and flavorful.

Attendees can look forward to:

• Food Vendors: A diverse selection of local food vendors will showcase their hottest and most flavorful dishes, from spicy tacos to fiery street corn and more.
• Pepper Eating Contest: Watch local celebrities try to beat the heat.
• Pepper Pack Journey: A social media-fueled, city-wide scavenger hunt culminating at the festival.
• Kid's Zone: Fun activities for children.
• Food Trucks & Food Vendors: Relish a unique blend of foods and spices.
• Pony Rides: Fun for the little ones.
• Live Performers: Enjoy live performances adding to the festive atmosphere.

"The Fiery Foods Festival is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together to celebrate the unique and diverse culinary heritage of Pasco," said Parks and Recreation Director Jesse Rice. "We invite everyone to join us for a day of great food, music, and family fun."

The event is free to attend, with food and beverages available for purchase. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their friends and family to enjoy a memorable day in downtown Pasco.

3 Rivers Community Foundation is excited to present Board Essentials, an online, self-paced training course from BoardBuild. For a limited time, 3RCF is offering a special 50% rebate upon completion of the course.

Serving on a board is a valuable opportunity to apply your passions, skills, and expertise to enhance and shape your community. The Board Essentials course features 6 lessons covering 20 key topics that address the fundamental logistics and operations of board service. Upon successful completion, participants can create a profile and be matched with available board positions that align with their interests.

For pricing and rebate details, visit www.3rcf.org/boardbuild.

The “Build a Better Board” rebate program is made possible thanks to Batelle, which operates Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

​The City of Kennewick is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its executive leadership team. Jessica Platt has been named as the new Interim Finance Director, and John Cowling has been appointed as the new Public Works Director. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles, further strengthening the city's commitment to excellence in public service.
 
Jessica Platt joined the City of Kennewick in June 2024. With nearly 20 years of experience in local government accounting and financial management, Jessica has a proven track record of success in building strong financial practices. She began her career at the City of Liberty Lake and later served as Finance Director for the City of West Richland, where she led the development of a $65 million biennial budget and received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. Jessica also played a pivotal role in improving the city’s bond rating to AA+. Most recently, she served as Financial Services Manager for the Town of Queen Creek, Arizona, where she implemented multiple process automation initiatives. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University, a Master’s in Business Administration/Accounting from the University of Phoenix, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Eastern Washington University.
 
John Cowling has been with the City of Kennewick since October 2017, initially joining as the Utility Services Manager and later being promoted to Deputy Public Works Director in 2022. With over 20 years of municipal experience, John has overseen significant infrastructure projects across several cities, including Sammamish, Marysville, and Mountlake Terrace. His extensive background includes managing water and wastewater treatment plants, transportation projects, and regional stormwater facilities. In Kennewick, John has been instrumental in the completion of major projects such as the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades, the 18th & Kellogg Reservoir Replacement, and various transportation initiatives. John is excited to continue serving the Kennewick community and supporting the goals of the City Council and residents in his new role as Public Works Director.
 
“We are thrilled to have both Jessica and John step into these key leadership positions,” said Erin Erdman, City Manager. “Their experience and dedication to public service have been, and will continue to be invaluable as we work to further enhance the quality of life for our residents and meet the needs of our growing community.”