Good morning, Yakima.

Naches Sportsman’s Days will take place at Depot Park in Naches on Sept.

11–12 with parades, bingo, dancing and live music. The event will bring neighbors together for a lively celebration of local heritage and fun.

Vendor events, craft fairs and pop-up markets are scheduled in the Yakima Valley from Sept.

4 through December at sites including Saturday Markets at Selah Springs Brewing Co. and various local venues. Attendees and vendors should check details beforehand (some events require a fee).

After Dolly Parton died on Aug.

25, a large mural painted by Sylvia Merczel became a cherished memorial at Salon BeYOUtiful in Westpark — fans now leave flowers and photos to honor the singer. Salon owner Audre Belt said the artwork will remain updated as a lasting tribute.

Cypress Creek Energy’s Ostrea Solar project now generates electricity in Black Rock Valley about 35 minutes east of downtown Yakima.

The project created 300 construction jobs and will bring $13.3 million in local tax revenue while conserving 275 acres and planting six pollinator-friendly species + supporting native habitat.

On Sept. 2, fire officials reported increasing containment on the Three Queens, Goat, Hagen and Paradise Fires in the Cascades & Blues area as crews worked to protect local communities.

Starting Nov. 1, Washington first-time drivers under 25 must complete a free online work zone safety course before getting their license.

The course takes about an hour including a test and is available alongside other driver education requirements.

Rep. Dan Newhouse sent a letter on Sept.

1 urging CMS to revise guidelines so Astria Toppenish Hospital on tribal land qualifies as a CAH despite being less than 35 miles from another facility — the change could help safeguard rural care amid financial pressures and heavy Medicaid reliance.

On Monday, locals gathered at Sarg Hubbard Park for International Overdose Awareness Day to honor 110 overdose deaths from 2025 and learn about treatment options.

Organizers and community leaders stressed the need for continued support and resources to help those in recovery.