Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
Good morning, Yakima.
Retail shops in Yakima have stocked potent new marijuana strains for 4/20 on Sunday—police warn that driving high is illegal—and buyers should use a sober driver to avoid DUI.
Local food banks and farmers now face possible federal cuts to programs that help feed households and boost local crops.
Northwest Harvest is raising its budget to buy food—partners warn that a full cut could force food banks to quickly change their services.
Inspire Development Centers have paused Head Start and Early Head Start programs in the Yakima Valley due to a federal funding delay, affecting over 400 preschool students and 70 staff (the centers have served low-income families for more than 40 years).
CEO Jorge Castillo said he remains hopeful a resolution will come soon as families may face higher levels of poverty if support is not restored.
After a state decision on April 10 upheld its permit denial, the Caton Landfill near Naches stopped operations as Yakima County filed a lawsuit over code violations—raising concerns about the facility accepting waste beyond permitted limits.
The Yakima County Department of Corrections was honored by Lexipol for its excellence in policy management and training for the third year in a row — Chief Bill Splawn said the staff met 80% standards despite staffing challenges and local concerns over ties.
Washington State Department of Transportation is asking for online comments on proposed updates to its rail plan that aims to ease congestion, boost the economy, reduce emissions and improve safety, with feedback being accepted from April 15 until June 24.
The department will hold online seminars on May 8 and May 22 to explain the plan details.
The Yakima City Council approved a resolution at its Tuesday meeting to shift summer cruise nights on Yakima Avenue to run from 7 to 11 p.m. on the second and third Saturdays of June, July, August and September.
Deputy Mayor Matt Brown and Mayor Patricia Byers met with local car club representatives—who wanted the later start to avoid early heat—to set the new schedule.
A national study found that people who both smoke cigarettes and use e-cigarettes (dual users) have the same high levels of harmful chemicals as those who only smoke.
Researchers advised that smokers join tobacco cessation programs (which help break nicotine addiction) to lower their health risks.
Lili Zetina & Grupo ZL Live Concert
9 p.m. — Los Patitos Sports Bar & Grill — Ticket purchase required — Experience the thrilling energy of live regional music with Lili Zetina and Grupo ZL.
Yakima Enological Society's Annual Platinum Dinner and Auction
5:30-10 p.m. — Yakima Country Club — $175 — Experience a night of exquisite wines featuring new and returning wineries from the Pacific Northwest.
Alpine Bloom Painting Event
6-8 p.m. — Mickey's Pub — Ticket required — Unleash your creativity while enjoying food and drinks at this guided painting session.
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