Good morning, Richland.

A fire three weeks ago caused heavy smoke and water damage at the Brief• Storytime Bookshop, forcing it to close until it reopens temporarily at Discount Vac and Sew—community support has been strong.

The pop-up store will open on April 25 on National Independent Bookstore Day while owners seek a permanent downtown location.

Firefighters responded to a large packaging plant fire on Kingsgate Way north of Richland around 5:50 p.m. April 8, evacuating staff and working to control the blaze with more crews on scene as of 6:40 p.m. (further details are pending).

Visit Tri-Cities announced 18 April events are expected to draw nearly 20,000 visitors and generate over $4.35 million for the region, including major tournaments like the National Softball Association Icebreaker Girls Fastpitch Tournament + West Coast Premier Tournaments Tri-Cities Season Kick-Off that will boost local travel and hotel stays.

A Tri-Cities Facebook discussion clarified golf cart rules today in Richland; local officials confirm that carts are allowed only in designated zones and may be driven by those 16+ with a license.

Franklin County Fire District 3 added a drone to help crews respond faster to fires and search missions.

The drone (with thermal imaging and live video) was partly funded by a DNR matching grant and will support neighboring departments.

Benton County’s Mental Health Court in Kennewick marked its 10th anniversary on Wednesday, Apr.

8 as 200 participants, including Chevelle who shredded her charges (a symbol of fresh starts), graduated at the Benton County Justice Center. Officials say the program will expand to help more people tackle mental health challenges.

On April 8, DOE + Central Plateau Cleanup Company said the first stainless steel containers of vitrified waste were permanently stored at Hanford's Integrated Disposal Facility on the Central Plateau.

The placement follows last fall's preparations at the Direct-Feed Low-Activity Waste facility.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has launched a multi-year effort treating private lawns to stop the Japanese beetle from damaging crops and lawns.

Half of Sun Willows Golf Course was treated on Wednesday, and the remaining holes are scheduled for treatment today while residents are urged to sign consent forms.

The new Columbia Valley Center for Recovery will host an open house on April 17 (11 AM to 1 PM) at 900 South Auburn in Kennewick, where visitors will explore upcoming addiction, counseling, and crisis services as the facility prepares to meet urgent community needs.

The 57th annual Apple Cup Race returns this weekend in the Tri-Cities with free Friday practice at the fast tri-oval track + more than two dozen competitors from across the country are set to race.

J. Valentino Live at Jokers

7-10 p.m. — Jokers Comedy Club — Full food & drink menu available — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian J. Valentino and friends from Los Angeles.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — No fee — Compete in trivia rounds while enjoying wine and food in a lively atmosphere.

K is for Kindness 5K and 1K Fun Run

4-7 p.m. — 1776 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA — Registration fee required — Participate in a fun run benefiting local autism support nonprofits.