Good morning, Yakima.

On Wednesday, Valley Mall in Yakima held its fourth free Kids Club event where children made Harry Potter crafts and enjoyed fun activities.

Mall marketing manager Jacob Butler said the event—part of a 12-year series—added interactive elements for the first time and will end with a Comic Con themed event on Aug.6.

West Valley High School construction students built two 64‑square‑foot playhouses with Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity that will be auctioned online from Aug.

1—31 to support a homeownership program. About 40 students spent two semesters planning and building the playhouses, and auction winners will be announced on Aug. 31.

Burger Ranch closed its doors today after 48 years of serving the Yakima Valley as the Gargett Family retired, while Les Schwab Tires opened its fourth local store in West Valley, a 10,500-square-foot facility with seven interior bays + a full range of auto services.

Yakima Police arrested a 16-year-old on July 22 for fatally shooting 35-year-old Jorge Alvarado at Miller Park and he now faces adult second-degree murder charges—police are still searching for a suspect in the July 24 fatal shooting of 21-year-old Zuriel Pollicino near Taco Bell.

The Yakima Valley was voted as the fourth best wine region in USA Today's readers' poll released July 30 — the poll ranked Suisun Valley, Rogue Valley, and Walla Walla Valley ahead of the region.

Local winemakers said the area's good weather, outdoor fun and long winemaking history helped it earn the ranking.

Caleb Williams, a Selah High School graduate, earned a 2025 WAVE scholarship that will help pay for his studies at Eastern Washington University as he pursues a health sciences career.

He was chosen as one of 145 statewide awardees for his focus on exercise science and will receive up to $3,900 per year for two years & plans to continue toward a career in physical therapy.

Yakima County Commissioners voted on Tuesday to put an advisory measure on the November ballot asking if the current ban on cannabis production, processing, and retail sales in unincorporated areas should continue + officials say lifting the ban could bring in millions from cannabis excise taxes.

Yakima County health officials found harmful algae in the pond at Hisey Park in Granger—posting warning signs—and they urge residents and pet owners to avoid the water until weekly tests show that microcystin toxin levels are safe.

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.