Daily editionThursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Kennewick.
The Daily Kennewick Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
Community
A SmartAsset study ranked over 300 cities and named Richland the safest midsize city in Washington plus the 78th safest nationally.
The report measured violent crime, property crime, motor vehicle fatality and natural disaster risk using key safety data.
KONARead more
Business
Kennewick's Busy Bee Diner launches a half-off certificate deal selling a $25 certificate for $12.50 starting Friday at 6:00 a.m. The local diner, known for its homemade comfort food, joins the Seize The Deal promotion.
KONARead more
A longtime family-owned restaurant in Richland may close permanently if it cannot secure $100,000 needed for a kitchen hood upgrade required by fire safety codes.
Owners have hired a contractor and started a GoFundMe (over $35,000 raised so far) to help cover the cost.
KEPR TVRead more
Culture
Ben Franklin Transit is expanding its student art contest by featuring 12 artworks (6 on each bus) from local students.
The 'Who is your hero' themed display will run for one year.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Economy
Tri-Cities Airport is using a $2.7 million federal grant to cover new jetways and expand baggage handling for increased passenger demand — the upgrades will support service expansion to Portland starting June 10.
KEPR TVRead more
Education
Richland School District’s annual Field Day focuses on what students can do and now draws over 500 participants – including kids with disabilities – with 40 contests, vendor booths, and mentorship opportunities to build support networks.
NBC Tri-CitiesRead more
Environment
Benton County declared a moderate fire risk as recent regional fires raised concerns over dry, windy and hot conditions.
Kennewick Fire Department advises residents to clear debris and contact local fire districts before burning — tumbleweed burning is banned in Tri-Cities.
KEPR TVRead more
Wildfires broke out on May 20 in Yakima, Benton & Franklin counties; firefighters responded immediately and worked through the day to contain the flames.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Government
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will stop accepting cash for license purchases at its offices after June 11 due to a law phasing out pennies + license dealers may still accept cash if they follow the new guidelines.
The KEYRead more
Residents in older neighborhoods notice some streets lack sidewalks and streetlights because before the 1998 annexation, builders did not include these features.
The planning department explained (citing historical building rules) that new developments now comply with updated requirements.
KONARead more
Accidents
Kennewick firefighters responded on May 20 at 1:49 p.m. to a brush fire along the Columbia River (near Oak Street) that briefly threatened farmland; they contained the blaze by 2:30 p.m. with no injuries reported.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Kennewick Events
43rd Spring Show and Shine
Monday, May 25th, 2026 · Various hours — Columbia Park — Donations appreciated — Admire classic cars while supporting local veteran organizations.
Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
Saturday, May 30th, 2026 · 10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. — Red Lion Hotel Kennewick Columbia Center — All materials included — Unleash creativity by crafting a unique Turkish mosaic lamp over traditional tea and treats.
Salsa Night at Café Magnolia
Friday, June 5th, 2026 · 7-10:30 p.m. — Café Magnolia — Free entry — Dance the night away with salsa, bachata, and more in a fun, lively atmosphere.
Improve Comedy Show
Saturday, June 6th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Mystery Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of fast-paced, unscripted improv powered by your suggestions.
Coyote Kings Live Performance
Wednesday, June 10th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Clover Island Inn — Free entry — Enjoy an energetic night of Hot Funky Blues Rock with the amazing Tiphony Dames!
Personal Branding and Content Creation Workshop
Thursday, June 18th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Gesa Carousel of Dreams — Registration required — Enhance your visibility and confidence with practical branding strategies.