Good morning, Yakima.

Mel Brown, a retired accountant and paralegal, has served 12 years as a WishMaker with Make-A-Wish of Alaska and Washington by granting wishes for children with critical illnesses in Yakima County—she and her husband are among six local volunteers assisting 21 kids who now wait about two months for their wish process to start. Community supporters say more volunteers, including bilingual ones, are needed to help families navigate the wish-granting process.

The Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce revealed the top three nominees in each category for the upcoming 2025 Women Awards, which will honor exceptional women making an impact in the Yakima Valley.

The awards ceremony will be held on May 8 at 4:00 p.m. in the State Fair Room at the Yakima Valley SunDome — key achievements in community service, education, business leadership, and ownership will be recognized.

The Shreds and Meds event will be held on Saturday, April 26 in Yakima to ask residents to safely dispose of expired medication; news will report results at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.—a measure that invites community input.

Solarity Credit Union plans a new branch in Union Gap at 1249 Market St near Winco Foods, with construction starting soon and the new site opening in late 2025.

Additional updates include a Quick Quack Car Wash under construction at 9 W. Valley Mall Blvd and a UPS Store planned near North Fair Ave, along with remodeling at the Cigar Pairing Parlor and a new chiropractic/massage therapy space at 1104 Tieton Drive.

A Yakima man named Damian Iniguez will serve 72 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after a Zillah officer found him asleep at a gas station in September 2023 with a loaded pistol stolen from Oregon in 2021—he was not allowed to carry a firearm due to a previous conviction.

Six individuals were arrested on April 22 in Yakima for a drug and firearms conspiracy involving methamphetamine and fentanyl—nine firearms were seized and the suspects were arraigned on April 23 at the Yakima Federal Courthouse.

Recent surveys show more consumers expect higher unemployment, so many seek ways to cut spending amid uncertain times.

Local libraries now offer free streaming services, discounted document help & job skills workshops to help residents save money.

On April 24th, the FDA warned against using unapproved finasteride spray for hair loss after reports of sexual side effects, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

The agency stated the topical formula is not approved and can risk birth defects in male babies — especially if women are exposed.

Results published on April 22 show that isolated seniors who took part in virtual choir sessions during pandemic lockdowns felt reduced anxiety and better social connection—nearly 87% reported improved well-being.

Researchers from Northwestern University plan to expand the trial nationwide—hoping digital singing continues to offer emotional and cognitive support.

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.

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Yakima

3 PM – 12 AM — Uptown Yakima — Ticket purchase required — Explore historic landmarks and engage in fun challenges with friends during a thrilling scavenger hunt.