John Riggs was born and raised in Yakima. He moved away from Washington state for about 10 years, but moved back home, bringing along his wife and three kids. You'll find John in town snapping photos when he's covering new business openings, especially restaurants. He loves to help spread the word, and to encourage folks to shop local first. John also loves to travel, always looking for quick weekend getaways, attending events, and fan expos around the country. Don't be too shy to say, "Hi!"
John Riggs
Most Dangerous City in WA is also 2nd in All of United States
When you think of most crime-ridden, most miserable, most pathetic, most irritating, most unlike to host the Olympics, the place most likely to be infested by rats... why do you always think of Yakima first?
C'mon, now, Yakima's pretty neat...
The Prettiest City in WA is Also the Drunkest
Beer
Well, now that I have your attention, lemme tell you about how much the good citizens of Washington State love their beer.
A lot.
That settles it. Washington State loves their beer and no reason why not. The Yakima Valley, alone, is home to 75% of the hops used in beer across the United States...
5 Thanksgiving Traditions in Washington State
This Thanksgiving, don't forget to enjoy the classic traditions. Football games, naps, and traditional meals - make the holiday special by trying something new with your family and friends
This Small Town Named Worst City to Live in Washington State
247 Wall St reports this town as the worst city in Washington State with high poverty rate, expensive homes and more
Great Thanksgiving Volunteer Opportunities in Seattle
Make a difference in the community by helping those in need with Treehouse, Black Coffee Northwest, YWCA, Lake City Holiday Project, and more.
Is it Illegal to Ride Your Bikes / Ebikes on the Sidewalk in WA?
In high school, my friend would say this, when driving behind someone riding their bike on the road:
"Get your bike on the sidewalk with the rest of the toys!"
Though I'd remind him the bicycler has a right to be on the road as I don't think it's legal for people to ride bikes on sidewalks, it got me thinking...
Let’s Take a Look Inside the Reopened Sears at Valley Mall [PHOTOS]
Looking for a great deal this holiday season? Visit Sears at Valley Mall in Yakima for new items and discounted prices.
Sears is Reopening at Valley Mall Today, November 6th
Surprise!
Though we were sad to hear we were losing our Sears store in Valley Mall last November, there was apparently enough of an outcry to have Sears return.
I honestly don't know the circumstances of why or even how we're getting Sears once again...
Join the IKE Players for ‘And a Child Shall Lead’ This Weekend
Some of the most talented people in our valley are found at our local high schools. I had the chance to watch 'And a Child Shall Lead' as performed by the IKE Players and it was a fascinating and wonderful performance.
Not only the acting and even a little singing (though this is not a musical) but the stage design was top notch...
5 Things You can Buy in WA with One Hour of Minimum Wage
$7.25. That's the federal minimum wage. That's the absolute least amount you can get paid legally allowed by the government is $7.25.
According to L&I the minimum wage in Yakima is about $15 an hour. That's a lot more than the $4 an hour I was making in the 90s but that's another story...
Brave Enough to Try the ‘Hot Ones’ Last Dab Wings at this Yakima Eatery?
There are no lack of options to find some decent wings in Yakima. Most pubs around town, of course we have the great Buffalo Wild Wings at Valley Mall and even places like Ozeki that carry a Korean-style wing that were amazing. I'm a huge fan of wings so it's nice to see...
The Hourly Wage You Need to Afford Rent in Washington State
Say it with me.
"The rent is too damn high!"
It was high back then and with most places raising the rent every 6 months or so, it's getting worse and worse.
To the point where many are having trouble making ends meet with the rent and power and food and any other essentials...