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  • At the Liberty: "Hoppers"

    The Times|Mar 26, 2026

    DAYTON — What if you could talk to animals and understand what they’re saying? In Disney and Pixar’s feature film “Hoppers,” scientists have discovered how to “hop” human consciousness into lifelike robotic animals, allowing people to communicate with animals as animals. The adventure introduces Mabel, an animal lover who uses hop technology to uncover mysteries of the animal world beyond anything she could have imagined. Rated PG for action/peril, some scary images, and mild language, and has a runtime of 105 minutes. On Rotten Tomatoes, the...

  • Dog Jog 2026 Returns May 31

    The Times|Mar 26, 2026

    WALLA WALLA - Blue Mountain Humane Society has opened registration for Dog Jog 2026, its annual community walk and run fundraiser for shelter pets in the Walla Walla Valley. This year's event will take place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Walla Walla Community College Athletic Field Parking Lot. Dog Jog is a family-friendly 5K fun run and walk that brings together runners, walkers, dogs, and animal lovers in support of homeless pet care. Participants can run or walk with their dogs, form...

  • Sarah Wilson Wins FFA Poultry Award

    Karen Huwe, The Times|Mar 26, 2026

    WAITSBURG - Sarah Wilson, a senior at Waitsburg High School, recently won first place in FFA's Poultry Production-Entrepreneurship/Placement and will receive her award at the State Convention in May. Wilson sent her application to a panel of FFA advisors, who reviewed all district applications at the Colfax District meeting for AG advisors. After receiving comments, she made edits before forwarding her updated application to the Washington FFA staff for further review. Later, she and other...

  • Support for Voter ID is higher than for the SAVE America Act

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 26, 2026

    WASHINGTON, DC - Question: Do 80% of Americans support the SAVE America Act, as cited by proponents of the bill? Answer: No. According to the CBS News-YouGov poll cited, 80% of Americans favor requiring a valid photo ID to vote. In the same poll, only 28% supported the SAVE America Act, while 31% opposed it and 41% were not sure. The CBS poll showed a wide divide among parties over voting security. Asked about voter fraud in the U.S, 54% of Republicans verses 14% of Democrats said it is...

  • At the Liberty:"EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert"

    The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    DAYTON — Elvis sings and tells his story like never before in a new cinematic experience from visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann. One reviewer said, “‘EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert’ isn’t just a concert - it’s an emotional experience. You can feel his energy, joy, and vulnerability. The restored footage and live sound make it feel like you’re right there in the audience, cheering along with everyone. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement and emotion.” Rated PG-13 for smoking and language, and has a runtime of 1 hour. 36 minute...

  • Cheap Trick to headline ww Fair & Frontier Days

    The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    WALLA WALLA — After 160 years, the fair is “Just Getting Started,” returning on Septemper 2 through 6, with Wednesday’s opening night performance by legendary rock band, Cheap Trick. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, Cheap Trick continues captivating fans with electrifying live performances featuring hits like “I Want You to Want Me,” “Dream Police,” “The Flame,” and “Surrender.” Cheap Trick has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide and performed live over 6,000 times. Thursday, September 3, will feature the always...

  • Tompkins to Run for Walla Walla County Auditor

    The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    WALLA WALLA - Former Walla Walla County Commissioner and local business owner Greg Tompkins announced he is running as an Independent for the Walla Walla County Auditor position. "I have chosen to run as an Independent for this position as there are no political decisions made by the County Auditor," said Thompkins. The county auditor is an elected position and will be on the general election ballot in 2026. Currently, the position is held by Sheryl Park, who has also registered as a candidate....

  • Grow with WSU Master Gardeners

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla County Master Gardener plant clinics will begin on April 7 at the Washington State University Extension Office. The clinics will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The plant clinics are run by university-trained Master Gardeners, who volunteer to help residents cultivate healthy, productive, and resilient landscapes. Master Gardeners undergo extensive training in plant science, horticulture, and integrated pest m...

  • VA Medical Center hosts informational meeting March 24

    The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    WALLA WALLA-The Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center will host a Veteran Patient Orientation on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This is a hybrid event and can be attended in person or virtually. Attend in person at the Jonathon M. Wainwright VA's main facility at 77 Wainwright Dr. in Walla Walla. The event will be on the second floor of building 143, in conference room 2101. Join the presentation virtually at tinyurl.com/JMW-VPO-032426. This informational session is open to all Veterans and their families who are...

  • Dayton Pool District plan fundraising through grants and ducks

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 19, 2026

    DAYTON-The regular meeting of the Columbia County Parks and Recreation Pool District was held on February 26 at 5 p.m. Topics of discussion included fundraising opportunities. The district recently learned that it did not receive the $600,000 Capital Campaign legislative grant it applied for. There are three other grants in process. The district will continue to pursue fundraising opportunities and grants needed to build the pool. In May, the district will hold a yard sale to benefit the pool du...

  • Friendship Bridge celebrates 50 years of sister cities alliance

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 12, 2026

    WALLA WALLA - The Walla Walla – Tambasasayama Sister City Committee will unveil two bronze statues of Japanese Dekansho dancers on Saturday, March 21, at 4 p.m. on the Friendship Bridge in downtown Walla Walla. A delegation of Tambasasayama high school students and chaperones, in Walla Walla for a week-long cultural exchange, will be present for the unveiling. This marks the completion of the Friendship Bridge Project, celebrating the 50th Anniversary (1972-2022) of the Walla Walla and T...

  • At the Liberty:"I Can Only Imagine 2"

    The Times|Mar 12, 2026

    DAYTON — The sequel to the 2018 standout hit “I Can Only Imagine” continues the true story of the band MercyMe’s lead singer Bart Millard. After the breakout success of their hit song “I Can Only Imagine,” Millard is living the dream of sold-out arenas, a devoted fanbase, and a thriving career. But Bart’s world begins to shift under the weight of devastating challenges, including his son Sam’s life-changing diagnosis. As Bart struggles to hold his family together, his wife Shannon becomes the family’s anchor by caring for Sam, supporting B...

  • WSSRA Appreciation week and award nominations honor local current and retired educators

    The Times|Mar 12, 2026

    WALLA WALLA — Washington School Retirees’ Appreciation Week will be observed March 17 through 21, 2026. It recognizes the ongoing, long-term impact of retired public-school educators and staff on schools and communities. The Washington State School Retirees Association (WSSRA) serves over 17,000 members by offering advocacy, insurance, and scholarships. School staff who are currently employed may also be members of WSSRA. The Walla Walla Columbia School Retirees’ Association, Unit 31, represents retired and active school employees living in Co...

  • Measles is a growing concern in Washington as U.S. cases surpass 1,100

    The Times|Mar 12, 2026

    OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed 26 measles cases across four counties this year, marking an increase from the three cases reported in a single county on January 16. The 26 measles cases reported in the first two months of 2026 are more than double the 12 cases reported in 2025. Over half of the measles cases reported in Washington in 2026 are linked to an outbreak, defined as three or more related cases. No measles outbreaks were reported in 2025. N...

  • Time to nominate your community hero for a Waitsburg Service Award

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 5, 2026

    WAITSBURG - The Waitsburg Commercial Club is reminding the public to send in nominations for this year's Community Service Awards. Don't delay, as the deadline for nominations is March 25, 2026. There are four awards, which will be presented during the club's annual meeting and dinner on April 21, 2026. The nomination letters should include a statement on why the person or business deserves recognition in one of the following categories: • Community Service Award – Recognizes a person who has...

  • At the Liberty:"Train Dreams"

    The Times|Mar 5, 2026

    DAYTON — Based on a novella by Denis Johnson, “Train Dreams” is the story of Robert Grainier (Golden Globe-nominee Joel Edgerton), during an era of unprecedented change in early 20th-century America. Orphaned at a young age, Robert grows into adulthood among the towering forests of the Pacific Northwest, where he works in the expansion of the nation’s railroad. He works alongside men as unforgettable as the landscapes they inhabit. After a moving courtship, he marries Gladys (Academy Award-nominee Felicity Jones). They built a home togethe...

  • Simply Sawdust opens March 5 after Winter Break

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Mar 5, 2026

    WAITSBURG - After a two-month winter break, Simply Sawdust will reopen on Thursday, March 5. Owner Gloria Wilson used the break to enhance the shop both inside and out. Wilson sold her CNC router, lathe, and milling machines to expand her workspace. She refreshed storefront displays and added products, all with shop-dog Kate's guidance. Customers will find new products, such as cloth bread bags paired with matching wooden spoons. The shop continues its commitment to supporting community makers,...

  • Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Town Hall on March 13, 2026

    The Times|Mar 5, 2026

    WALLA WALLA — The Waitsburg Town Hall is holding its St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Silent Auction onFriday, March 13, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The doors will open at 5 p.m. so guests can bid in the silent auction before dinner is served at 6 p.m. The cost is $25 per person, and tickets are available through Town Hall's board members. President–Jim Romine Vice-President–Louie Gagnon Secretary–Lance Carter Treasurer–Dave Tipton Board members Allen Huwe, Andrew Knee, and Janice McIntyre All proceeds go to the operations and maintenance...

  • At the Liberty: "GOAT"

    The Times|Feb 26, 2026

    “GOAT” February 27, March 1 & 3 DAYTON — From Sony Pictures Animation comes “GOAT,” an original action-comedy set in an all-animal world. The story follows Will, a small goat with big dreams, who gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to play with the pros in roarball. The game is dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world. Will’s new teammates aren’t thrilled to have a little goat on their roster. Will is determined to revolutionize the sport and prove “smalls can ball!” The critics on RottenTomatoes.com said that “Goat” sports a t...

  • Dayton Library hosts talk on Tátwin Wildlife Area on Thrusday Feb. 26

    The Times|Feb 26, 2026

    DAYTON — The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will host a public event at the Dayton Public Library, Delaney Building. The informational event will be held on Thursday, February 26, at 7 p.m. The focus will be on the management of and policy changes to the Tátwin Wildlife Area (formerly the Rainwater Wildlife Area). There will be a short presentation and a question-and-answer period. The public is invited to attend....

  • Civil engagement in Waitsburg

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Feb 26, 2026

    WAITSBURG - A group of Waitsburg citizens has been meeting to foster community connections and strengthen civic engagement and political change. The group, known as The Circle, was formed by Tom Elstrom, the Walla Walla Democratic Precinct Officer. And though many attendees identify as Democrats, Elstrom said people of all political stripes who are unwilling to give up on the Republic are welcome. The meetings are held on the first Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. at Ten Ton Art, 216 Main Stre...

  • At the Liberty:"Sentimental Value"

    The Times|Feb 19, 2026

    DAYTON — “Sentimental Value” is nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture. In the movie, sisters Nora and Agnes reunite with their estranged father, the charismatic Gustav, a once-renowned director who offers stage actress Nora a role in what he hopes will be his comeback film. When Nora turns it down, she soon discovers he has given her part to an eager young Hollywood star. Suddenly, the two sisters must navigate their complicated relationship with their father - and deal with an American star dropped right into the middl...

  • Applications open for OES scholarships

    The Times|Feb 19, 2026

    WALLA WALLA — The Washington State Order of the Eastern Star (OES) is offering two nursing scholarships for those pursuing a career in the field of nursing. The Alexandra Schencking Memorial Nursing Scholarship and the Glenna Hale Memorial Scholarship are exclusively for tuition and book assistance. Application deadline for both is May 1, 2026. The Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership (ESTARL) application is open to those pursuing religious training. All areas of religious leadership will be considered. Application deadline i...

  • A public informational meeting on the Tátwin Wildlife Area

    The Times|Feb 19, 2026

    DAYTON — The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will host a public event at the Dayton Public Library, Delaney Building. The informational event will be held on Thursday, February 26, at 7 p.m. The focus will be on policy changes and management of the Tátwin Wildlife Area (formerly the Rainwater Wildlife Area). There will be a short presentation and a question-and-answer period. The public is invited to attend....

  • Peace is not a destination but a mindset.

    Lane Gwinn, The Times|Feb 12, 2026

    WASHINGTON, D.C. - Buddhist Monks have completed their 2,300-mile, 108-day walk for peace from Ft Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C. They walked into the nation's capital on February 10, 2026. The nineteen Buddhist monks, led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center, made the journey to promote compassion and unity. Law enforcement presented them with many police badges and pins, symbolizing protection, respect, and solidarity. After arriving in Washington,...

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