Good morning, Yakima.

Train Dreams, a Netflix film shot in various Washington locations (including Tekoa) and based on an award-winning novella, earned four Oscar nominations including Best Cinematography.

Yakima locals can stream the film now and enjoy its showcase of scenic landscapes and the lumberjack era.

NFL assistant coach Jennifer King, the first Black woman in the role, will speak at Black History Month events in Yakima and Ellensburg.

In Yakima, she will address the OIC Henry Beauchamp Center on Feb. 4 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and meet leaders at the Chamber on Feb. 5.

Niche.com has ranked Washington school districts, naming Bellevue School District as #1, Mercer Island School District as #2 and Tahoma School District as #10 among 233 districts; the list also shows Naches Valley School District’s ranking in diversity, offering readers a look at local education performance.

The West Valley school board approved a policy that will return leftover bond funds to lower property taxes if projects come in under budget + a second hearing is set for Feb.

10 at Wide Hollow Elementary School’s library ahead of the replacement levy and bond measure.

West Valley Fire and Rescue hosted a public listening session Thursday night in Yakima to review preliminary wildfire mapping results presented by the state Department of Natural Resources.

Officials and community members discussed a hazard map meant to forecast future wildfire risks.

The Yakima Fire Department advises residents to use external heat sources carefully this winter, emphasizing manufacturer guidelines and proper electrical usage to prevent structure fires (Capt. Jeremiah Stilley explained that overloaded circuits can spark dangerous blazes).

The Washington Department of Agriculture warned pet owners that the New World Screwworm—a parasitic fly found in Central America and Northern Mexico—may pose risks to traveling animals; officials advise veterinary exams and monitoring of wounds.

Enhanced inspections are in place at southern entry ports.

A study found that dogs may lose balance when they hear angry voices and show mixed responses to happy voices.

Led by Dr. Nadja Affenzeller from the University of Veterinary Medicine (Vienna), the findings published Jan. 29 in PLOS One may help pet owners better understand their pets’ reactions.

Cold for a Cause 5k

9 AM – 12 PM — Sarg Hubbard Park — Registration Fee Applies — Lace up, bundle up, and run with purpose to help those in need during winter.