Daily editionThursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Kennewick.
The Daily Kennewick Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
Community
Kennewick is taking its first step to honor combat-wounded veterans as a Purple Heart parking sign was installed at VFW Post 5785 — part of a broader effort to earn the Purple Heart City designation.
A sign reveal celebration is planned for March.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
A Kennewick-based junk removal firm is offering free hauling after a report on Richland mother Mackenzie Hanson clearing a cluttered home on Hains Avenue; extra help from local companies will support a multi-day cleanup to keep her home safe for her two children.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Education
Westgate Elementary teacher Kori Cannon (14 years of experience) has been named the district's Crystal Apple Award winner and will be honored at Educational Service District 123 in Pasco on March 19.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
A new nuclear energy simulator is now complete at Washington State University Tri-Cities; it was built with federal funding + partnerships among Columbia Basin College and Energy Northwest and will train students on real-world control scenarios linking local workforce skills to power plant plans north of Richland.
KEPR TVRead more
Environment
A federal judge yesterday ordered narrow changes at Columbia and Snake River hydropower dams to support endangered salmon — actions that maintain reservoir levels from 2025, following decades-long legal efforts by states, tribes, and conservation groups.
The decision aimed to balance fish protection and safe power operations.
FOX 41 YakimaRead more
Health
Hospitals face surgery delays after a 35% drop in blood supply, and Bloodworks NW is calling for donations this March (donors will receive free A1C testing to check their health).
NewsTalk 870Read more
Two participants graduated from Benton County's recovery court Tuesday night after completing a rigorous multi-phase program — combining treatment, frequent check-ins, and community support — to overcome addiction and build a healthier future.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Kadlec Clinic urges residents during American Heart Month to check for coronary heart disease symptoms (chest pain, labored breathing) and to seek early testing like an EKG and stress test for risk factors such as diabetes or high cholesterol.
NBC Tri-CitiesRead more
Lifestyle
Rey, a gentle Pasco puppy born Dec. 10, 2025, is featured during this week’s Wet Nose Wednesday by Pet Overpopulation Prevention as he looks for a forever home.
Interested adopters must complete the foster-to-adopt process + consult local counselors for details.
KONARead more