Good morning, Pullman.

The Gladish Community and Cultural Center in Pullman faces closure next week as its nonprofit hosts the final Mrs. Roper Romp fundraiser tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. — the event aims to cover remaining expenses.

Today, residents and visitors kick off Palouse Days at 6 p.m. with a party featuring live music at the Palouse Caboose—local bands are set to perform while community organizers plan Saturday events including a pancake breakfast near the RV park, a car show with trophies, and a parade led by longtime resident Idella Griffin. These activities continue into the day with additional displays and contests scheduled to engage the town.

Washington State University has received approval to sell alcohol at its football games, and officials said the policy will take effect this season—expanding game-day options for fans.

A new survey by Apiary Inspectors of America, Auburn University, and Oregon State University showed that 45 percent of honey bee colonies in Washington and 51 percent in Idaho were lost from April 1 to April 1 due to disease, mites, and low pollen levels.

Local beekeepers like Jerry Tate noted that fewer bees have led to smaller garden yields, and experts advise planting more varied flowers to help the bees recover.

The Chamber of Commerce will host a candidate forum next Monday, Sept 15, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Event Center where city council and county commissioner candidates will answer member questions on bolstering Pullman businesses—moderated by Paul Kimmell.

The Port of Whitman County received $1 million in .09 funds to build a Technology Transfer and Commercialization Scaling Facility at Pullman Industrial Park on Northeast Eastgate Boulevard that will help companies develop technology + boost local economic progress.

Whitman County commissioners said they will use the funds over three years and the facility will be operational within two years of securing full funding.

Three new fully electric buses with Pullman-themed liveries entered service on Sept.

4. Public Works director Sean Wells said the buses have 25 seats and a luggage rack and were ordered for airport and campus routes—funded by state and federal grants.

Pullman’s Planning Commission vice chair Brent Carper explained he felt internal pressure while helping approve a lengthy zoning code update that included short term rental restrictions amid a tight grant deadline—his comments followed a contentious city council meeting where tensions arose. He noted that the pressure came from the heavy workload and a statement from Assistant City Planner Ariel Medeiros, and he apologized for any misunderstanding.

Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs said he will delay releasing the complete voter registration database until the DOJ explains how it will use the sensitive data—he plans to review the request and work with stakeholders to protect voter privacy.

WSU will travel to North Texas on Saturday for an event—officials have not yet provided additional details.

Cougar Collective Friday Happy Hour

3-6 p.m. — Martin Stadium — No refunds — Kick off the WSU Football weekend with a fun happy hour featuring student athletes and coaches.

Gonzaga Bulldogs vs. Washington State Cougars Women's Volleyball

1-4 p.m. — Bohler Gymnasium — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the collegiate women's volleyball teams in this thrilling matchup.

2025 Crossroads Summit

11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center — Free entry — Explore the intersection of food, industry, and academia at this collaborative summit.

Fall Vintage & Handmade Fair

10 AM – 5 PM — Beasley Coliseum — Admission details not specified — Celebrate the season with unique finds and handmade goods at this autumn fair.