Good morning, Yakima.

The Fresh Hop Ale Festival grant application period in Yakima opened on April 10 and organizations can apply to fund science + arts programs until midnight on May 30; grant awards will be announced on June 30.

Memorial Day events spanned the valley last weekend to honor veterans.

A 10 a.m. mass was held at Calvary Cemetery, ceremonies and flag placements occurred at Tahoma, West Hills, Wapato, and Sunnyside, and a $10 breakfast took place in Zillah (tickets available at door).

A new cafe in Union Gap now offers seniors nutritious lunches as part of the Meals on Wheels initiative, available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1215 Business Park Way; seniors donate $3 if they choose while non-seniors pay $10 per meal.

The Humane Society in Yakima is hosting a fundraiser inviting pet owners to share pictures for a chance to have their pet painted on a wall visible from a park — funds raised will support adding space for larger dogs, and votes will be accepted until May 31.

This summer, Downtown Summer Nights returns to North Front Street with six free Thursday concerts featuring local and regional acts from 6 to 9 p.m., and a beer garden opening at 5:30 p.m. organizers are also recruiting volunteers for setup and cleanup.

Washington families can now join the GET prepaid tuition plan any time of year, as Washington Education Savings Plans now allows open enrollment.

The update provides increased flexibility and a lower unit price compared to tuition costs, letting families set up accounts when it best fits their budget.

YVC and CWU signed an agreement Tuesday that creates a seamless transfer process (automating applications, transcripts, and fees) to ease the path for students balancing school, work, and family.

This pilot program may lead to similar transfer models in the future.

Developers plan the Goldendale Energy Storage Project, a pumped-water system near a former smelter that may power 500,000 homes + create 3,000 construction jobs by 2032.

The Yakama Nation opposes the project, arguing the site holds sacred cultural value and threatens traditional land ties.

Fire officials urge residents in Yakima Valley to check burn bans (using the state DNR Burn Portal) and follow safety tips like cleaning grills and keeping fire pits away from structures as dry summer conditions increase wildfire risks.

The City urges residents to call 811 (48 hours in advance) before digging to avoid accidents with underground utilities as spring yard work begins in Yakima.

This advisory applies to projects like planting trees, installing fence posts, or setting up sprinkler systems.

The City of Mabton issued a precautionary boil water notice for all customers after fixing a temporary chlorine problem+ routine water quality tests are underway to confirm safety.

Residents must boil water for one minute before use and will be updated when the notice is lifted.

Speakers at a community health forum at the Wapato Filipino Community Hall discussed a MultiCare contract dispute that may leave local providers out-of-network for 10,000 Regence patients and reviewed upcoming federal Medicaid changes with new work requirements set for later this year. Residents were advised to explore alternative care options — such as Indigo Urgent Care that still accepts Regence patients.

Toby Bloom from the U.S. Forest Service shared summer safety tips for families planning outdoor trips to local national forests.

He noted visitors should check online for *Know Before You Go* details and fire restrictions, and bring water, sunscreen and first aid supplies.

Los Cuates de Sinaloa & Tite Chavez

7 p.m. — La Forja Event Center — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience the vibrant beats of Latin music with Los Cuates de Sinaloa and Tite Chavez in a lively performance.

Backyard Garden Painting Event

6-8 p.m. — Mickey's Pub — Food and drink not included — Create art, sip drinks, and enjoy the local vibe at this fun painting class.

Yakima Fan Zone: Czechia vs Mexico

6-9 p.m. — Sozo Sports Complex — Free admission — Experience the excitement of a World Cup game with food trucks, giveaways, and soccer action.