Good morning, Yakima.

A Wapato man was found guilty of second-degree murder in federal court on Aug.

20 for a 2023 fatal drunken driving crash on North Track Road on the Yakama Nation reservation—he remains held in Yakima County jail and awaits sentencing in November.

The tariff exemption for purchases under $800 expired on August 29, so buyers now face tariffs and duties on international orders.

The rule had already ended for China earlier this year (which could raise costs on many products).

Trails near Bumping Lake are closed as firefighters battle two wildfires; crews are fighting a 50-acre fire called Wildcat and a 1.5-acre fire named Swamp Lake using helicopters and other equipment — locals are urged to stay clear of the closed roads and work zones.

At a meeting Tuesday, Financial Services Director Brian Carlson told commissioners that Yakima County faced a $13 million to $15 million deficit heading into the 2026 budget, with county reserves near the minimum needed—officials are weighing options like reducing staff and other cuts—and more meetings are planned before the December deadline.

Triumph Treatment Center welcomed a large crowd at Sarg Hubbard Park—where service and recovery organizations offered help to local residents—while the Larson building in downtown Yakima will be lit purple through Aug.

31 in honor of Opioid Awareness Day.

Triumph Treatment hosted its ninth annual Overdose Awareness Day event on August 29 at Sarg Hubbard Park as Yakima grapples with rising overdose deaths — the event provided support groups and resources for those struggling with substance use.

The city declared August 29 as Overdose Awareness Day after fatal overdoses increased from 96 to 146 between 2023 and 2024.

The Yakima Health District warned that RSV, flu, and COVID-19 cases are rising as fall nears and urged residents to get their vaccines to stay healthy—officials said that people who feel sick should stay home to prevent spreading illness.

Researchers reviewed nine studies and found that adults who received the shingles vaccine had an 18% lower chance of heart attack or stroke, with benefits seen among those 18 and older.

They said the vaccine—approved by the CDC for people 50 and older—may offer extra heart health benefits while more research is needed.

Steps to Recovery Walk

Show your support for those on the path to recovery. Join us for a day of hope, resilience, and community. We invite all friends and family members in recovery to join us at this meaningful event and show your support for those who are walking the path of recovery.

Central Washington State Fair

12-2 p.m. — State Fair Park — Admission details not specified — Explore the vibrant festivities at the Central Washington State Fair.

Seattle Credit Union Invites Yakima Community to Mobile Branch Launch Celebration

Seattle Credit Union is proud to invite the Yakima community to the grand unveiling of its brand-new Mobile Banking Branch, a bold step toward making financial services more accessible to everyone. This special event will feature free lunch for all guests, music provided by Radio KDNA, raffle prizes and giveaways throughout the event, and a photo booth for fun memories with friends and family.

5k Beer Run at Bale Breaker Brewing Company

12-2 p.m. — Bale Breaker Brewing Company — Registration fee required — Experience a fun 5k run followed by local craft beer and festivities.