Daily editionFriday, May 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Kennewick.
The Daily Kennewick Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of May.
Community
Kitten season is boosting stray cat numbers in the Tri-Cities as warmer weather allows more breeding.
Tri-Cities Animal Services estimates 50,000 homeless cats could be roaming, and shelters now limit intakes to sick and injured cats (official Monica Noonan urges owners to spay, neuter, and keep pets indoors).
NBC Tri-CitiesRead more
Pasco holds a ribbon cutting for its new aquatic center on June 12 at 5204 Road 108; the facility will officially open on June 27 with registration starting on June 12 & no swimming allowed during the event.
The center offers indoor and outdoor water amenities for year-round enjoyment.
NBC Tri-CitiesRead more
Memorial Day observances will take place Monday, May 25 in Kennewick, Richland and Pasco.
Kennewick hosts events at Columbia Park at 8 a.m. and Desert Lawn Memorial Park at 11 a.m. — meanwhile, Sunset Gardens in Richland and Columbia River Garden Cemetery in Pasco will honor veterans with flag displays.
KONARead more
Education
Leona Libby Middle School & Tapteal Elementary in the Richland School District received state recognition from the Washington School Recognition Program for strong student growth during the 2024 to 2025 school year, noted for low-income student progress and racial and ethnic group growth.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
School districts in Kennewick, Pasco and Richland replaced water fixtures after lead tests showed elevated levels in older school buildings.
Kennewick replaced 11 of over 1,000 fixtures while Pasco and Richland removed or repaired units—ensuring schools met state safety requirements.
NBC Tri-CitiesRead more
Government
The Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco will get $2.7 million to upgrade its terminal and baggage area (adding a new outbound baggage area and three boarding bridges) as part of an $82.1 million state infrastructure grant; the improvements will let the airport handle larger aircraft.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Lifestyle
Boulder Cave, a 10-million-year-old cave near Mount Rainier, offers a cool summer hike for locals from the Tri-Cities; visitors must stay on the trail (keeping quiet to protect bat habitat) and bring a lunch for this unique outdoor adventure.
KONARead more
Real Estate
A new analysis shows that Pasco's median home price jumped by +$224,618 over ten years, a +116.1% increase that now pushes averages above $400,000.
Homebuyers face challenges entering the market as affordability has declined since 2016.
KONARead 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.