Your trusted source for local Sunnyside, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Yakima Valley voters must submit their primary election ballots by 8 p.m. on August 5. Mail-in ballots should be postmarked by that date, but local mail processing changes may delay timely delivery. Officials recommend using drop boxes to ensure ballots are submitted on time.
Yakima police charged Kent Anton Hewitt with drive-by shooting as the driver of a vehicle involved in the July 13 incident. Investigators identified Jose Luna as the shooter but have not charged him yet. This case highlights ongoing efforts to address gun violence in the area.
Washington Spectrum Schools will open new K-12 private special education programs in Ellensburg and Maple Valley this school year. The schools focus on individualized instruction for students with behavioral and learning disabilities, including autism and ADHD. Open enrollment is currently underway, with an information session scheduled for August 4.
The Sunnyside City Council voted to officially discontinue the dormant Crime-Free Rental Housing Program, which had been inactive since 2019. The decision follows a lawsuit from the state's Attorney General alleging unlawful evictions linked to the program, which the city disputes. City officials cite ongoing financial burdens related to the lawsuit as a key reason for the program's termination.
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire opens on August 16, 2025, offering themes like "Fairies & Fantasy" and "Oktoberfest." Attendees can enjoy a diverse range of activities and beverages, catering to fans of medieval culture. This two-month event promises a magical experience for all ages.
The Yakima Valley Impala Car Club hosts an open-class car show in Grandview, raising funds to donate meals to the community. Over the past seven years, the event has grown from 40 cars to a larger turnout, fostering interest in car culture among younger generations. The club aims to keep the low rider and car show scenes alive while supporting local charities.
Former mayor Laura Vasquez seeks to reclaim her position as the Mayor of Mabton, emphasizing the need for improved city management. She aims to ensure all community voices are heard, regardless of differing opinions. Vasquez faces competition from current mayor Rachel Ruelas and first-time candidate Martha Gonzalez.
Martha Gonzalez announces her candidacy for mayor of Mabton, criticizing the current leadership for eroding community trust. She pledges to enhance transparency by ensuring bilingual communication for the city's predominantly Spanish-speaking residents.
The YWCA received $736,000 from the 'Live Like Emily' foundation, honoring domestic violence victim Emily Harris. Her father, Brian Harris, raised the funds after her tragic death in 2020, aiming to support victims of domestic violence through the YWCA. The organization plans to renovate a building into a shelter, adding 112 emergency beds by summer 2026.
MultiCare Orthopedics Northwest offers free sports physical screenings for local student-athletes in Yakima over two weekends at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. The screenings aim to identify health issues, providing athletes with necessary clearances for sports participation while reducing the burden on local healthcare providers. Organizers emphasize accessibility, ensuring every student-athlete can receive a physical regardless of financial or logistical barriers.