Good morning, Yakima.

A community discussion and study of universal healthcare will be held Aug.

24 at Heritage University in Toppenish from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Organized by the Yakima Valley Healthcare Defense Partnership, the event offers a free barbecue dinner (with interpreter services and bilingual moderation) and features six healthcare experts and advocates.

Tyson Foods is selling its beef processing plant near Pasco that employs about 1,400 people, leaving local cattle feeders uncertain amid a record-low cattle supply; Jack Fields (from the Washington Cattle Feeders Association) said the announcement does not mean closure.

Local business owners report that downtown is improving but still face challenges like empty buildings and homelessness; three new restaurants are opening this year and a facade improvement grant is available to help attract more foot traffic.

Community support continues to back efforts for a vibrant downtown.

ICCU opened new branches in Yakima & Moxee after merging with CALCOE Federal Credit Union.

The branches employ 12 local team members and offer in-person services Monday through Friday, with drive-thru hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Native Bloom Trading, a Native women-owned bead and supply store, celebrated its grand opening Saturday, Aug.

15, at 1004 Vintage Valley in Zillah (located between Munchi Snack Bar and Smiley’s Café) and plans to expand online soon.

The Yakama Nation stopped logging and other industrial work at Industrial Fire Precaution Level 4 amid high fire risk from recent blazes — berry gathering continues while officials review the shutdown until further notice.

A new outdoor calisthenics gym opened at Chesterley Park on Sunday—bringing state-of-the-art equipment for full-body workouts to all ages in the community.

Local wellness experts from Energy Wellness Center say the facility, located off Fruitvale Avenue, offers a fresh option for outdoor fitness.

Stacker compiled a list of Yakima’s top ice cream shops using Yelp ratings to help locals find the best cool treats this summer.

Residents can compare their favorites (by visiting local spots) as temperatures rise.