Good morning, Spokane.

Following community outcry, Spokane County commissioners reversed plans to close Patricia Simonet Laughing Dog Park, which was set to save $32,000 annually amid a $20 million budget shortfall.

The park will stay open for one year while officials work with the state transportation department for a permanent funding solution.

Bites and Books food drive helps Spokane families as food stamp benefits fall short.

Volunteers report more residents are relying on food banks and urge local support for this ongoing effort — a vital community resource.

Pascal Rogé returns to Spokane with his wife Elena Font — for three concerts.

They will perform four-hand pieces at Myrtle Woldson Center’s Recital Hall Saturday at noon, join cellist Kevin Hekmatpanah at 2 p.m. Sunday, and conclude with a two-piano concerto on April 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Davenport Senior High and McDonald Elementary were named Distinguished Schools by OSPI for exceptional student performance and academic growth; they will receive a plaque + $5,000 to support professional development.

SpoCanopy, a partnership between the Lands Council and the city, will plant 1,500 trees by boosting volunteer efforts to cool neighborhoods and lower energy bills, and will host a planting event on May 5 in high-need areas such as Hillyard & Chief Garry Park while creating new green jobs.

Spokane Riverkeeper warned Wednesday that although winter precipitation stayed near normal, rain fell instead of the needed snow—leaving the snowpack at about 54% of typical levels—and setting up a dry summer that could reduce Spokane River flows.

Amid ongoing drought and recent weed burner fires in Spokane Valley, fire officials advise residents to clear 10 feet around homes and remove flammable mulch and debris so that landscapes become more firewise.

Homeowners should trim overgrown evergreens and roofs to help prevent further fire spread.

County commissioners voted to place an August ballot measure on aquifer protection for West Plains, which could result in a $15 fee for residents accessing groundwater (or using septic systems).

The proposal excludes areas near Fairchild Air Force Base and Spokane International Airport.

Spokane’s semi-pro pickleball team, the Badgers, will compete in its first tournament Saturday at the Press Pickleball Club against the Bellevue Ballers as part of the nation’s first team-based league & they plan free clinics and youth programs to boost the sport locally.

Steele Venters, a Gonzaga transfer and former Eastern Washington standout, announced his commitment to play his final season at Washington yesterday + he will be an eighth-year senior needing a medical waiver for next season after recovering from ACL and Achilles injuries.

The Vancouver Canadians won 14-6 over the Spokane Indians at Avista Stadium on Wednesday with grand slams from Chirinos and Cunningham.

The game lasted over three hours — a long contest that dropped Spokane to a 5-6 record.

Kam Patterson Live Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy sharp, high-energy comedy from rising star Kam Patterson.

Stand-Up Comedy with Kam Patterson

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Check venue for ticket prices — Enjoy high-energy comedy from a rising star who's making waves in the stand-up scene.

Walla Walla Wine On Tour - Spokane

4-6:30 p.m. — Spokane Convention Center — Admission varies — Explore over 40 wineries from the Walla Walla Valley and taste exquisite wines while meeting winemakers.

Movie Night: Erin Brockovich

5:30-8 p.m. — Magic Lantern Theatre — Suggested donation of $10 — Enjoy a compelling film night supporting local women and children in need.

Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Davenport Hotel, Autograph Collection — Ticketed event — Experience enchanting melodies from the Bridgerton series in a candlelit atmosphere.

Shawn Wayans Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Shawn Wayans, known for his iconic roles and comedic talents.

Josh Sneed Live Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with nationally touring comedian Josh Sneed, known for his appearances on Comedy Central.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Bing Crosby Theater — Ticketed event — Experience a heart-pounding celebration of Irish history through dance, music, and storytelling.

Della Mae Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Bing Crosby Theater — $Varies — Experience the electrifying bluegrass energy of the all-women band Della Mae as they perform new music from their album Magic Accident.

The Carole King & James Taylor Story - Tribute Show

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Bing Crosby Theater — Cost not specified — Experience a breathtaking tribute to the legendary careers of Carole King and James Taylor with exceptional live performances.