Blog Archive

Vibrant Yakima - 2010-06-22

The other day, we were thinking about the way Yakima used to be: a place where there were long stretches of not much to do. This is perfectly fine when you need a break now and then, but long stretches of not much to do often means a community that is languishing: no keen ideas, no creative spark, no economic pop.

My, how Yakima has changed!

Now the dilemma is to figure out how to choose among the gallery shows, museum exhibits, musical offerings, theatre shows, wine tastings, farmers’ markets, art festivals, poetry readings, enrichment workshops, rodeos, fairs, powwows, fiestas, car races, and sporting events! And you know, this is not an all-inclusive list; there’s MORE out there (like fishing and water skiing and snow skiing and hiking and cycling and…)! This arts/entertainment/recreation positively-electric-vibe demonstrates that while economic times are challenging, a prosperous future is already perking throughout the valley.

Now a bit of grousing is permitted – “how are we going to fit it all in?” – but a larger amount of crowing is encouraged.

Crowing because Yakima hasn’t been a sleepy, rural backwater for decades. Our community is vibrant, expansive and churning with potential. Yet in the same way that we sometimes keep “seeing” old friends and family members as we’ve always seen them, many long-time valley residents haven’t shaken the “same old Yakima” impression of our own home.

So here’s a thought: in the next week or two, be a tourist in your own valley. Drive and walk around with fresh eyes. See this place as if you were brand new to the area and you’re excited to discover its treasures. Take pictures the same way you would on an excursion to Venice or Paris or Mexico City: you in front of a sculpture, your companion hamming it up at the outdoor café, colorful locals, scenic vistas… you get the idea.

Enjoy the terrific energy of old/new Yakima. Let us know what surprises you discover. We want to go touristing, too!