How to Nominate Someone for Tri-Cities' 2026 Community Award

Nominations are NOW being accepted for the 2026 Tri-Citian of the Year Award. Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2026 - NO later than 5 pm.

Mark your calendars now for the region's highest award gala banquet.

Thursday, April 30 at Kennewick's Three Rivers Convention Center

The 2026 Tri-Citian of the Year will be announced at the event, which begins at 6 pm with a social, followed by dinner and the program at 7 pm.

The Tri-Citian of the Year exemplifies the highest standards of community service, leadership, and the voluntary contribution of selfless acts to positively impact community development, economic growth, and the overall well-being of all humans.The foremost criteria for the award is demonstration of public or volunteer service for which no monetary compensation is received.

The 2025 Tri-Citian of the Year was retired Benton County Prosecutor Andy Miller.

Andy Miller via Facebook

How Do You Nominate Someone for Tri-Citian of the Year?

Nominations can be submitted by anyone in the community. A selection committee chooses from the nominations received. Detailed testimonies in the nomination help the committe to choose the person honored. Nominations are evaluated by non-Rotarians and Kiwanians from each of the Tri-Cities, including West Richland.

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Past Recipients of the Tri-Citian of the Year Honor Include:

2024 - Sharon Grant
2023 - Lura Powell
2022 - Mark Brault
2019 - Dave Retter
2018 - Don Pratt
2017 - Steve and Shirley Simmons
2016 - Barbara Johnson
2015 - John and Priscilla Caldwell

11 Items Illegal to Throw Away in Washington

These items are illegal to throw away in Washington state. Check with your county for household hazardous waste collection events. Some of these items may be disposed of at such an event.

Gallery Credit: Patti Banner

10 Items That Should Never Be Left in a Cold Vehicle in Washington

Some items should NEVER be left in extreme cold temperatures, just as some should never be left in extreme heat. Items with batteries, carbonated beverages, items with properties that can expand or contract. Let's not leave out aerosol cans! Take a look. Have you ever left anything in a freezing vehicle that fare so well, after?

Gallery Credit: Patti Banner