Good morning, Yakima.

Local dog trainer Dale Ward launched her first book, Raising the Worst Dog Ever, which mixes memoirs of her Labrador Wylie with practical training tips and recently won a dog writing award + she spent five years working with editors and designers to prepare it for paperback and eBook distribution.

La Salle High School hosted its third annual STEM fair on Saturday in Union Gap—offering hands-on learning stations in subjects like astrology, robotics and plant biology—and local companies showcased job opportunities.

Friends of Toppenish Creek and Central Washington University have partnered on a water study in Mabton, funded by a $150,000 EPA grant, to test municipal water quality.

The research, informed by community input from a Feb. 17 meeting, will run through November and focus on identifying safe drilling areas.

Eastern Washington orchards saw a 70% drop in honeybee numbers by 2025, so WSU scientists tested methods like indoor relocation + new food sources to protect the pollinators.

This effort aims to help local tree fruit growers adjust to the decline.

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently revised air travel rules so airlines will only allow properly trained service dogs in the passenger cabin and will no longer provide free rides for emotional support animals.

Local and regional handlers and trainers expressed mixed views about the change.

A local resident adopted a rescue dog that was misrepresented in its temperament, leaving her at risk for additional costs and safety hazards (experts stress that adopters should read contracts carefully to avoid scams).

Local stories highlight the benefits and challenges of adopting older pets, with several owners sharing how rescued dogs have brought joy and required extra care (including routine vet visits).

The accounts encourage Yakima residents to consider giving senior animals a loving home.