Good morning, Walla Walla.

On August 17, a Walla Walla man with an expired registration and suspended license led police on a chase across state lines and lost control of his car—crashing into a concrete pylon on northwest Eighth Avenue in Milton-Freewater—and was captured after fleeing on foot, treated for injuries at a hospital, and jailed on several charges.

Walla Walla High School was named one of the nation’s best by US News and World Report 2025 — it ranked in the top third based on test scores, college readiness and graduation rates.

Principal John Schumacher said the honor shows the hard work of students, staff and families.

Walla Walla will open its 2026 CDBG application process on Sept.

3, 2026 as it prepares for federal funding from Congress—after proposals kept funding near 2025 levels. The program has supported affordable housing and playground improvements and will require applicants to confirm eligibility with coordinator Lydia Caudill.

Waitsburg leaders are planning to turn the old community pool into a seasonal skating rink with an artificial surface—KwikRink—and they aim to have it open by the Hometown Christmas Celebration.

The City Council delayed a final vote until next month, and the $150,000 project will feature propane heaters, chairs, a hot cocoa stand, decorative fencing, a disco ball, and string lights with partial funding from a $102,000 county grant and city funds.

Walla Walla County Fairgrounds Manager Greg Lybeck was placed on paid administrative leave on Aug.

18 pending investigation into alleged misconduct at the Aug. 16 event and ordered to return all county property—Commissioners said his leave is likely temporary and he may resume his role for the Fair running from Aug. 27 to Aug. 31.

The FDA warned Washington shoppers that Great Value brand raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart with lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1 and best by dates of March 15 may contain low levels of Cs-137 — a contaminant that could increase cancer risk over time, so consumers should discard any purchased product.

3 Doors Down Concert

7-10 p.m. — Walla Walla County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Rock out with Grammy-nominated 3 Doors Down as they bring their hits to Walla Walla.

Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days Parade

6-8 p.m. — Walla Walla County Fairgrounds — Free entry — A vibrant family-friendly parade featuring antique cars, decorated trucks, and appearances from the Fair & Frontier Days Royalty.

Petty Fever Live at SOFH Walla Walla

6-9 p.m. — Sleight of Hand Cellars — $30 — Enjoy a night of live music from the best Tom Petty tribute band to kick off a weekend of wine and fun.