Good morning, Yakima.

Yakima Valley history comes alive at the Pioneer Power Show at Union Gap's Fulbright park on August 16-17—families will see old tractors, equipment parades and work demos that highlight the valley's past.

Visitors pay $5 a person while children under 12 enter free and can enjoy displays like kiddie train rides, vintage snowmobiles and live events.

The Narcissa Whitman Chapter of DAR in Yakima won first place nationwide for its work at the Veterans Benefit Fair and Stand Down at the SunDome last October—assisting more than 800 veterans with donated clothes.

The group will return this fall to support the 2025 Stand Down and is asking local volunteers to help with the event.

Facing an urgent need for new volunteers, the Red Cross will hold an in-person Shelter Worker Boot Camp on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 302 S.—Second St. in Yakima to prepare volunteers for disaster shelter support after a fire displaced 30 people at Bali Hai Motel.

Toppenish police investigated a suspected homicide on August 13 at a home on 200 north G Street—officials ask the community to stay away as detectives follow leads.

On Tuesday, the Yakima Police Department released a list of 14 officers—including Chief Shawn Boyle, six patrol officers, three detectives, three sergeants and one lieutenant—placed on administrative leave after Saturday's shooting caused the second death in Yakima and led to an ongoing internal investigation that cancelled next Saturday's Cruise the Ave event.

The Yakima Area Arboretum is hosting the National Scrollathon art event to mark the U.S. 250th anniversary celebration, with up to 100 participants chosen for one of four one-hour sessions on Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—this local event invites anyone without prior art experience to create both a souvenir scroll and a piece for a national exhibit at the Kennedy Center.

John Cooper, CEO of Yakima Valley Tourism, said the region is drawing visitors with festivals and harvest events after its nomination as one of USA Today’s 10 best places to visit in fall — the only Washington nominee — which highlights local traditions.

Voting remains open until September 8 at 9 a.m., letting residents support the region.

City Manager Mike Gonzalez filed a tort claim on August 6 to seek damages for injuries, emotional pain, and financial loss — he accused Councilmember Theresa Hancock of harassment that led to his extended administrative leave and named 22 people as potential witnesses.

The investigation into his claims continues.

Washington legislators are warning about rising health care rates as insurance companies propose a 21.2% increase for 2026—Sen. Cantwell blamed the companies and the federal government while Rep. Corry pointed to state and federal policies.

They stressed that protecting coverage and affordability is crucial for Washingtonians.

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