Good morning, Yakima.

In February 1996, heavy rains and melting snow sent the Yakima, Naches, and Tieton rivers flooding Yakima Valley, destroying 111 homes and damaging 2,204 houses with $17 million in damage — local responders rescued stranded residents and the event spurred long-term flood control measures.

The Yakima Fire Department urges residents to attend a public meeting at Yakima City Hall (Jan.

6 at 5:00 p.m.) after a failed levy may lead to Station 92’s closure, potentially increasing CPR response times from three minutes to 11 or 12 minutes in some areas.

Costco in Yakima is recalling a popular Caesar salad dressing because black plastic was found in the granulated onion ingredient.

Shoppers are urged to check their items and return them for a refund (the recall affects multiple stores in Washington and Oregon).

A study released on Dec.

15 finds that healthy habits such as good sleep, stress management, and proper weight link to brains appearing up to 8 years younger in people with chronic pain. Researchers tracked 128 adults over two years + observed slower brain aging with more healthy behaviors.

Local bakers present 13 Christmas cookie recipes (including Butter Pecan and Ginger Spice) perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings.

Readers can enjoy these festive treats as a way to add sweetness and tradition to their celebrations.

Local food experts share 11 Christmas potluck recipes, including warm baked brie and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to help Yakima hosts prepare festive dishes for family gatherings + community celebrations.