Good morning, Yakima.

Yakima police identified 35-year-old Jorge Alvarado as the victim of the fatal shooting at Miller Park (502 N.

Fourth St.) where he died of a gunshot wound to the chest at 6:25 p.m. Tuesday and are investigating a separate fatal shooting at the Taco Bell drive-thru on 72nd Avenue with victim identification pending.

Mindy Schultz began her new role as superintendent at Highland School District on July 1 and plans to rebuild teacher-student bonds while addressing enrollment drops and potential budget cuts—she has spent 23 years growing up with the local school community.

Schultz will work to maintain quality programs such as intervention systems and smaller class sizes to support student safety and success.

Yakima City Council voted 4-3 to put a $6 million property tax levy on the November ballot to fill a budget gap while Deputy Mayor Matt Brown, who voted no, promised to meet with business owners to find ways to boost local growth.

Yakima City Council voted to place a measure on the November 4 ballot that would increase the city’s regular property tax levy to raise about $6 million for 2026.

The council will form committees with Yakima residents to draft both supporting and opposing statements — interested residents must apply by 12 p.m. July 31 and committee appointments will be made on August 4.

City officials said phase three of the roundabout at 72nd and Washington will start on July 28 and the intersection will close until September 12 for underground work—detours on Nob Hill Boulevard, 64th Avenue and Occidental Road will guide drivers while access to homes and businesses is maintained. The project will finish two months ahead of schedule with the roundabout opening early instead of mid-November.

MultiCare Orthopedics Northwest is hosting free sports physical screenings for Yakima student-athletes to get health checks such as height, weight, blood pressure, and joint assessments today at Butler-Haney Hall at PNWU from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.—minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Yakima Health District reported on July 25 that a mosquito sample from Hisey Park in Granger tested positive for West Nile Virus, marking the first mosquito case this year.

Health officials said that though no human cases have occurred since 2021, the county remains at risk and urged residents to use preventive measures to avoid bites.

Yakima health officials reported no local measles cases and are closely watching the national surge of more than 1,300 incidents; they emphasize that everyone must get vaccinated to protect themselves—especially with busy summer travel increasing exposure in crowded places.

Vintiques Northwest Nationals

8 a.m. — State Fair Park — Admission cost varies — Experience a showcase of vintage vehicles in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Summer Battle Wrestling in Yakima

6 PM — La Rumba Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable night of live wrestling action and excitement with top stars in the ring.

Paint and Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Hoops — Ticket required — Enjoy food and drinks while painting to your favorite 80’s & 90’s music.