Good morning, Yakima.

Yakima aerospace quality engineer Justin Smith earned over $550,000 by winning the Colossus event at the World Series of Poker at the Horseshoe and Paris in Las Vegas on Wednesday, June 10th.

He beat 16,000 competitors and his career winnings now exceed $609,657.

Conservative Christian men will meet at the Gorge Amphitheatre near Quincy this weekend for Freedom Con: Rise of the Statesman.

The two-day event offers worship, workout sessions and father-son activities (no alcohol or women allowed) with speakers including Josh McPherson.

A brush fire on Tule Road near Toppenish burned 24,090 acres and was 75% contained on Friday; US-97 remains closed near Goldendale as crews mop up and build containment around the fire.

Wildfires burning in Yakima Valley threaten the electrical systems powering Roza Irrigation District's 18 pumping stations that supply water to 27,000 acres of crops.

District Manager Scott Revell warned repairs could be costly and time-consuming, potentially affecting water delivery during a drought year.

Gusty winds are forecast from Friday through Monday, with the strongest gusts on Saturday raising fire concerns in the area.

Dry conditions and highs in the 80s and 90s will keep outdoor risks high this week.

A wildfire in Yakima Canyon is 50% contained after burning about 3,923 acres nine miles north of Selah.

The blaze began Tuesday evening, briefly closing I-82 and SR-821 and prompting Level 2 evacuations that have been lifted, while officials say the human-caused fire is slowing.

A new list of electric vehicle charging stations has been released for drivers in the Lower Yakima Valley, covering locations in Wapato, Toppenish, Zillah, Sunnyside, and Grandview.

Readers can use the guide to plan stops and keep their vehicles charged during local trips.

Yakima Police Department celebrates the country’s 250th anniversary by outfitting officers with commemorative badges and patches featuring the inscription 'America’s 250th 1776 - 2026'—inviting residents to ask about their significance and strengthen community ties.

Effective July 1, Washington drivers will see their gas tax increase 2% as the state rolls out an automatic indexing policy to match inflation.

The additional cost aims to help fund highway safety & preservation projects amid ongoing high fuel prices.

On Fri., Jun. 19, Sozo Sports Complex hosted a World Cup watch party where 115 fans in USA jerseys enjoyed food + drinks in warm weather.

Another watch party is scheduled later this week for upcoming matches with free entry upon registration.

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.

Princess Unicorn and Daddy Daughter Night

6:35-10:30 p.m. — Yakima Valley Pippins Baseball Club — Enjoy quality time with mini-unicorn rides and baseball excitement.

19th Annual Lavender Harvest Days

Varied hours — Selah Ridge Lavender Farm LLC — Free admission, $5 parking — Explore unique vendors, enjoy a scavenger hunt for kids, and experience the beauty of lavender in a charming farm setting.

Scout Hub 002 Grand Opening

10 a.m. – 7 p.m. — Adventurer Manufacturing, Inc — Free admission — Experience camper tours, local gear, and community connections at this grand opening event.