Happy Tuesday, Tri Cities. Here's your top 10 for the week: all the stories, events, houses, and local spots your fellow readers clicked on most last week. Consider it a cheat sheet for anything you might have missed.
An emergency vet visit could cost you $7,000+ (ask me how I know 🙃). From the initial fee just to be seen to x-rays, surgery, medicine, and aftercare, it adds up quicker than a chew toy turns into a crime scene. The good news? You could get up to 90% cash back on your vet bill with this pet insurance plan.* |
| | Where the good junk hides | Some of Washington's best flea markets feel like stepping into a secret attic, and this roundup maps out where to dig. If the thrill of finding a mid-century lamp, a stack of records, or the exact Pyrex you remember from Sunday potlucks still does it for you, you will be happy here. Consider it a starting line for the next treasure hunt, close to home or worth the gas -- browse the full list. |
| | Solar system project keeps growing | The Hanford Reach Solar System Project is getting bigger, with plans to install more markers in the next phase. This science-minded effort keeps space close to home, turning everyday errands into little moments of curiosity. If you like a bit of wonder with your walk or drive, the expansion is worth watching, and the project has shared what is planned next -- see what is planned. |
| | Dave & Buster's eyes Columbia Center | Plans are taking shape for a Dave & Buster's at Columbia Center in Kennewick. It is a notable get for the mall, and a new twist on going out that is not just dinner and a movie. If you have not walked the mall in a while, this might be the nudge. The report lays out where it would land at Columbia Center, and what is known so far -- read the full story. |
| | Bronco Stampede hits Columbia Park | Columbia Park in Kennewick hosts the Inland NW Bronco Stampede, an evening gathering with big community energy and river views to match. Whether you are there for the buzz, the backdrop, or a chance to bump into neighbors you only see at the park, it is a solid way to stretch the day. Curious about start time, parking, and what to expect? We have the basics -- get all the details. |
| | Date-night vibes, comfort food included | Europa Italian & Spanish Cuisine is that rare spot where cozy date-night energy meets legit comfort food. If your table is split between twirlable pasta and shareable small plates, you do not have to choose. Expect plates made for passing, sauce that begs for bread, and a dessert list worth saving room for. Want a peek at the vibe, the menu, and how to get there? -- get all the details. |
| | Island comfort without the flight | Huli Huli ‘Ohana BBQ brings island comfort to the Tri-Cities with smoky plates and sauces that make leftovers a rare sight, no passport required. It is big flavor with zero fuss, the kind of meal where the grill does the work, and you get the credit, while your kitchen stays clean. If that sounds like your kind of evening, here is where to start -- get all the details. |
| | Retirees are making moves | After gold's best year in nearly five decades, more folks than ever are moving part of their savings into precious metals. Not all of it... just enough to hedge against inflation. AHG put together a free guide that explains how it works -- grab your copy here*. |
| | The slower you walk, the more it works | Tai Chi walking is trending online. Turns out it's centuries old — slow deliberate steps, paced breath, attention on the body. Thirty minutes a day burns fat, lifts your mood, and builds balance. No gym, no treadmill, no pounding on the joints. Take the quick quiz to see if it fits, then use code BASELOCAL for a discount on the coaching plan -- see how it works*. |
| | Your insurance won't cover a $12,000 HVAC bill | If your furnace quits before it warms up, your homeowners insurance will tell you it's a "maintenance issue" and wish you luck. Insurance covers sudden disasters. It doesn't cover the systems that wear out over time, and those are the expensive ones. A home warranty is built for exactly this. HVAC, water heater, appliances, plumbing, electrical... all covered for less than $1/day with no age restrictions on what's covered. You call, they send a tech, you pay a service fee. They handle the rest -- this one's 50% off right now*. |
| | The bill everyone over 50 should double check | Car insurance. If you’ve been on the same plan for years, you might be paying way more than you need to. It’s an easy one to forget about, but switching could save you up to $600 this year. Case in point: I shopped around and ended up cutting my premium in half -- this free comparison tool makes it easy*. |
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