Othello Sandhill Crane fest returns this March

The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival returns March 20-22 to celebrate the annual migration of thousands of Sandhill Cranes through the Columbia Basin.

Festival registration runs through noon March 15, though attendees are encouraged to register early as many guided tours historically sell out.

The three-day festival offers a wide range of educational experiences, including expert-led lectures, immersive guided tours by boat, bus, bike, van and on foot, and hands-on activities designed for all ages. Attendees can explore the region’s unique wildlife and landscapes while learning from naturalists, biologists and local experts.

Family-friendly highlights include children’s art activities, an art contest with entries displayed during the festival, and a free photo booth for memorable festival photos. Visitors can also enjoy food trucks, festival novelties, local art, and more throughout the weekend. 

Contact: 509-989-5606, othellosandhillcranefestival.org.

Prosser hospital launches patient transport service

Prosser Memorial Health Foundation has launched a new patient transport cart service to help patients and visitors more easily and safely access care at PMH’s north campus at 200 Prosser Health Drive. 

The new transportation carts run from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday and will provide rides from the north campus parking lot to any of the three main entrance points of the facility. Patients looking to use the service can call 509-788-3036 upon arrival to be picked up. The same phone number will be used when patients are ready to return to their vehicle. 

The service helps remove barriers to care, according to a news release, and supports patients, families and community, especially those with mobility challenges.

The foundation is also looking for volunteers to help support the new service. Those interested in volunteering to drive the carts or looking for more information about the new service can contact the foundation’s executive director, Troy McGregor, at 509-786-5155. 

The Prosser Memorial Health Foundation pursues, receives and administers donations and gifts for the benefit of PMH.