Good morning, Walla Walla.

Walla Walla Public Schools Superintendent Wade Smith, set to leave on June 30 after nine years, was honored by the state House with a legislative resolution for raising the district’s graduation rate to 94.5 and boosting its dual language program—he will join a consulting firm that builds schools after his final day.

Walla Walla County’s northern fire districts Nos.

1, 3 and 7 placed a proposal on the April 22 ballot to form a North County Fire Authority — a new body that would replace three separate fire levies with a single $1.20 levy per $100k of assessed value. If approved, the new authority will form on May 1 with a board of nine fire commissioners that will later shift to a five-person elected board.

The state Senate passed House Bill 1815 Tuesday morning to exclude juvenile detention facilities from prison riot laws with a vote of 27—21.

Supporters say the change will let internal management handle disruptive behavior while opponents worry it could lower safety for kids and staff, and the bill will return to the House before governor review.

Rep. Lauren Davis introduced House Bill 2071 today to require online dating services to pay a tax of $1 per registered user — a rule that applies to both paid and free accounts unless inactive for 24 months; companies will likely pass the cost on to users.

The measure will direct the revenue toward programs against domestic violence — a change that could raise the cost of online dating in Washington.

The Tri-Cities Cancer Center Foundation announced that it has allotted over $500,000 for new cancer equipment and patient programs.

The funding will support contrast-enhanced mammography that has already detected cancer in Walla Walla and will help pay for a new ultrasound system and assistance programs for patients facing financial challenges.

WSU Master Gardeners Q & A

10 AM – 12 PM — Walla Walla Public Library — Free entry — Get your gardening questions answered with expert advice tailored for local enthusiasts as spring approaches.

Spanish Storytime

10:15-11:00 a.m. — Walla Walla Public Library — Free entry — Experience engaging Spanish stories for young readers at the library.

Canadian Brass Concert

7-9 p.m. — Cordiner Hall — $5/glass for wine — Enjoy an entertaining evening with the renowned Canadian Brass ensemble in their stylish tuxedos and white sneakers.

Anthony Nunziata Concert

2-4 p.m. — Gesa Power House Theatre — $35 – $40 — Experience the romantic sounds of jazz and pop from America’s new singing sensation, Anthony Nunziata.

Unity and Diversity Festival

7 p.m.-1 a.m. — Heritage Square — Free entry — Celebrate multicultural arts with food, crafts, games, and performances reviving a 25-year tradition.