Good morning, Yakima.

Seven former Party City stores have been reopened as Five Below outlets that offer bargain items like toys, electronics, and beauty products—shoppers in Union Gap can use Apple Pay and enjoy a 90-day return policy on their purchases.

Red Robin announced it will close 10-15 underperforming locations in 2025—including stores in Yakima, Kennewick and Wenatchee—as part of a long-term plan to downsize 70 locations over the next 4-5 years after a $6 million loss in 2024.

Five Below opened Friday at 17 E.

Valley Mall Blvd—next to the former Sears location—as one of eight new Pacific Northwest stores, while a permit was approved for Kobe Sushi and Ramen near West Valley Walmart. Other updates include Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate merging its Yakima team and relocating to a new office at 205 N. 40th Ave, permits issued for two mini-storage facilities and a drive-thru coffee stand, and a proposal for a child care center in the former Bigfoot Electric office.

A new survey shows that 60% of seasonal workers rely on their temporary jobs to cover daily bills and holiday expenses.

The study found that the average worker expects to earn $6,209 while many, especially millennials, need higher pay and worry about affording costs.

Gasoline prices in Yakima fell by 2.2 cents per gallon to an average of $3.88 as of November 10—GasBuddy's survey of 91 stations shows prices are 25.7 cents lower than a month ago—and remain 27.1 cents above last year.

In September, Yakima County property owners received their 2025 valuation statements and many saw higher property values even though higher valuations can lower the tax rate used to meet set budgets — the county now uses a new method to calculate land values and offers tax exemptions for those on fixed incomes. Assessor Jacob Tate advised residents to review their statements and ask questions if needed.

Federal health officials announced a recall of two ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula lots after thirteen infants in 10 states were hospitalized with botulism since August.

Parents are urged to discard any formula with a December 1 use by date and monitor their babies for signs such as constipation and difficulty swallowing.

A study found that 1 in 8 U.S. teens and young adults used AI chatbots for mental health advice, with 22% of those aged 18 to 21 and 66% of users seeking help monthly—researchers warn that these services lack clear standards and advise parents to opt for professional counseling instead.

A study showed that children with eczema who received the COVID vaccine had lower risks of ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and allergies than those not vaccinated — the report compared nearly 5,800 children and was presented on November 10 at a national allergy meeting.

On Nov. 10th, two studies at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology meeting showed that oral immunotherapy helped 64% of treated children safely eat allergens and eased family stress.

In a separate study, two high-risk infants lost their peanut allergy after starting a raw—then roasted—peanut therapy, the researchers reported.

Beef Counts Mobile Market - Yakima

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — State Fair Park — Registration required — Drive-thru beef distribution serving pre-registered families in Yakima.

Dancing Sky Painting Event

6-8 p.m. — Hoops — Tickets required — Enjoy food and drinks while painting to your favorite 80’s & 90’s tunes.