The Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business, along with some outstanding partners, have launched the Best Places to Work Mid-Columbia program. The business-focused program will recognize Tri-City area employers doing things right and creating cultures that make employees proud to work there. 

“Modest at best,” is how Lt. Gov. Denny Heck characterized the Legislature’s progress on housing policy this year.  It’s a far cry from 2023, which lawmakers dubbed the “Year of Housing” as they cleared the way for more “middle housing” throughout the state and put a record $400 million into the state’s fund for building affordable housing.

A Canadian company is buying 250 acres in Wallula to build a manufacturing facility for its stone wool insulation products.

It’s worth pausing for a moment to recognize the contributions that both U.S. Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Derek Kilmer have made to our state, and to thank them for their strong support of the employer community. They have each proven to be a champion for the economy and have demonstrated a willingness to listen to employer concerns.

Fuse, a Richland business and community accelerator, is stepping up its programming this year, fueled by a rekindled mission and a new leader.

 Visit Tri-Cities estimates that baseball and softball tournaments will bring in more than $7.2 million in economic impact this year.

Competent and dedicated skilled workers are vital to bringing manufacturing back to America.

“This (new stage) will improve the vibe of the concerts. You’ve got the stage, the (Columbia) River and the sunset,” said Mark Blotz, general manager and partner of Clover Island Inn, who helped get the annual concert series going 19 years ago.

Hunt & Gather Antiques and Vintage Shop is marking a decade in business at the Richland Uptown Shopping Center.

Fuse Fund is focused on investing in local entrepreneurs who will create jobs and contribute to the local economy.