Good morning, Yakima.

Residents are encouraged to safely dispose of outdated medications and tax documents at the annual Safe Yakima Valley Shreds and Meds event held April 25 at the Yakima Chamber of Commerce (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) and at event centers in Grandview and Toppenish (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.).

The annual Justice Housing Yakima Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 16 at Franklin Park pickleball courts on 2101 Tieton Drive.

Participants pay $40 registration and receive food, drinks plus prizes while raising money for local housing.

The Yakima Humane Society gave new toys to shelter dogs and shared a video of their happy reactions.

The group asks for donations of toys and supplies to help the pups find loving homes.

Two charity cornhole tournaments will take place in May to benefit local causes—one in Sunnyside on May 1 at 6 p.m. near Jack in the Box and another in Yakima on May 9 at noon at the SOZO Sports Complex.

The Downtown Association of Yakima is leading community initiatives with an annual flower program that beautifies downtown using volunteer help plus Downtown Summer Nights scheduled on the second and fourth Thursday each month to support local businesses.

These events are designed to keep downtown vibrant for residents and visitors.

Kelly Chambers of the SBA met with the Yakima Chamber and Rep. Chris Corry on Wednesday to discuss concerns over the new tax — a 9.9% levy on salaries over $1 million signed by Gov. Ferguson that takes effect in early 2028.

Chambers said the SBA will help businesses grow.

Bestselling author Erik Larson spoke at Capitol Theatre on Wednesday, Apr.

22, discussing his new bestseller on the Civil War and explaining how modern events like Jan. 6, 2021, shaped his approach to history. He noted that his next book is currently 5/8 complete (subject unspecified).

A.C. Davis High School is hosting a screening of the documentary Beyond the Bridge (Thursday, May 7 with a reception at 5 p.m., the film beginning at 6 p.m., and a Q&A panel from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.) to foster community discussion on homelessness.

Lewis and Clark Elementary builds strong connections with students using creative programs such as Attendance Queen and monthly attendance drawings.

These efforts boost attendance, engagement + foster a safe, caring environment.

AccuWeather forecasts fewer wildfires nationwide this year but warns that the Inland Northwest could see more intense blazes from drought and heat.

Experts say fast-spreading fires and heavy smoke may affect local areas as conditions dry out.

A recent report found that only one of 21 projects funded by the Climate Commitment Act improved air quality, with many funds in Yakima and elsewhere used mainly for outreach and staffing rather than pollution reduction.

Local advocates & officials question if grant dollars are spent to achieve meaningful results.

West Valley vs. Moses Lake Varsity Baseball Game

4-5:45 p.m. — West Valley High School — Free entry — Cheer on the varsity baseball team as they take on their conference rivals from Moses Lake.