Daily editionSaturday, December 13th, 2025
Good morning, Kennewick.
The Daily Kennewick Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 13th of December.
Community
Kennewick opened Tri-Cities’ first pump track at Vancouver Park today (funded by a federal Community Development Block Grant at a cost of $431,409) featuring rolling paths and banked turns for pedaling-free rides; additional artificial turf improvements are planned for spring.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Grant County Deputies are delivering Singing Christmasgrams to raise funds for a Community Shop with a Cop program that helps at-risk children shop for toys; requests cost $20 and can be arranged by emailing Deputy Rowland + share in the holiday spirit.
KONARead more
Business
Two sisters open Ink Drinkers Bookshop's storefront at 309 W. Kennewick Ave for its first holiday season, joining a downtown burst of new businesses.
The move comes as several enterprises expand or launch in the area, driving community energy.
Tri-Cities Business NewsRead more
Mathews Auto Body expanded its business with a new Pasco shop on Nov. 11 near local dealerships.
The 9,000 sqft facility features upgraded equipment (including a 30-foot custom paint booth) to cut wait times and better serve customers referred from Kennewick.
Tri-Cities Business NewsRead more
The Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business thanked readers + community partners for a year of business events, awards, and local leadership initiatives including the Young Professionals award and People of Influence program.
They also co-hosted a workforce forum with TRIDEC to strengthen the region’s business climate.
Tri-Cities Business NewsRead more
Environment
WSDOT updated road closures on Friday, Dec. 12 due to heavy flooding, closing US 2 between Skykomish & Tumwater Canyon and parts of US 12 in Washington.
Locals in the Tri-Cities hope for improved travel as winds ease and the Yakima River recedes over the weekend.
KONARead more
Government
U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse introduced the Parity for Nuclear Energy Investment Act to expand tax incentives for nuclear projects through the (Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit).
The act aims to support advanced nuclear facilities including small modular reactors in Richland while boosting local job growth.
Tri-Cities Business NewsRead more
Benton County upgraded its canine shelter at 1116 N. Grant Place to house more stray and dangerous dogs.
The facility now features 32 kennels + expanded covered areas and two new officers, with work completed on Nov. 17.
Tri-Cities Business NewsRead more
Ben Franklin Transit has faced internal turmoil since a tense board meeting where employees, union leaders, and riders accused CEO Thomas Drozt of retaliation and questionable spending; former CFO Alex Smith resigned and union representatives filed seven unfair labor practice charges—dozens of grievances are headed to arbitration.
Apple Valley News NowRead more
Washington faces rising fiscal risks as lawmakers recently deferred pension contributions to ease current budget pressures (a Reason Foundation report noted per-resident debt is about $15,400 compared to lower amounts in mountain states like Idaho), a move that may increase future financial burdens.
KONARead more
Health
A study by the University of Pennsylvania finds that hospital nurses in 10 states, including those in the region, say virtual nursing programs have not eased their workload, with only 11% noting substantial improvements in patient care (880 nurses surveyed).
Hospitals are advised to proceed cautiously when considering these programs.
FOX 41 YakimaRead more
Lifestyle
A guide featuring 13 easy slow cooker meals is offered for busy December nights — the recipes include hearty dishes like German Pot Roast, Southwestern Chili, and Chicken Tacos, which simplify dinner planning for local families.
FOX 41 YakimaRead more
Kennewick Events
Christmas Barn Event for Ages 12+
Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Summer's Hub of Kennewick — Food and beverages for purchase — Get into the holiday spirit with a country-themed painting experience.
Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert
Friday, December 19th, 2025 · 6:30-7:30 p.m. — REACH Museum — Tickets required — Experience the ethereal performances of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons under candlelight.
Spokane Chiefs at Tri-City Americans
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 · 6:05-7:35 p.m. — Toyota Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling hockey action as the Chiefs take on the Americans in Kennewick.