Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

Best Life Photography reported that Pooch Playoffs 2026 raised about $1,600 for Companions Animal Center as the event united pet lovers and local businesses; Loki (of Emma Hinebaugh) won Ulti-Mutt Cutie and advanced to the international vote-off on April 5.

Wildlife officials are investigating the illegal killing of two elk at Farragut State Park in Athol near the visitor center (the incident likely occurred late Friday or Saturday) and urge anyone with credible information to call the Citizens Against Poaching hotline.

The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber will host a Fourth of July celebration honoring 250 years with a Heroes Parade at 10 a.m. from 15th Street on Sherman Avenue, followed by City Park festivities and Lake fireworks.

Nominations for a grand marshal and VIP tickets are available.

State treasurer Julie Ellsworth, known as Creator-Tater, transformed the potato mascot into Spud Revere for America 250; her spud ambassadors toured North Idaho — stopping in Sandpoint, Priest River and Coeur d'Alene — and visitors signed a replica Declaration at the state capitol.

On Monday, Idaho drivers paid an average $4.31 a gallon, up six cents since last week and nearly a dollar above last year, as global unrest in the Strait of Hormuz constrained supply (Coeur d'Alene reported a lower price of $4.11).

North Idaho College Foundation is hosting its 33rd annual Really BIG Raffle to support student success.

The $150 tickets—only 5,000 available—give entrants a chance to win a Post Falls home under construction, a 2026 vehicle, gift cards, and early bird prizes if purchased by April 30.

The Lakeland School Board will review proposed superintendent policy changes tightening oversight and communication requirements at its meeting today at 6 at the district office (15506 N.

Washington St., Rathdrum). The draft (prepared after an April 6 committee meeting) is the final agenda item.

At Tuesday’s Breakfast Connect at the Hagadone Event Center, Isabel Davis of the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center discussed low snowpack and recent rainfall changes, urging caution amid wildfire concerns.

Todd Kiesbuy of Avista explained grid hardening & a potential public safety power shutoff to lower fire risks.

Governor Brad Little signed a proclamation today encouraging students to join or start Club America chapters (a program by Turning Point USA) in high schools across Idaho (supporting free exchange of ideas and civic engagement).

KYRO is adding a second NHL-sized rink at Frontier Ice Arena to boost skating sports for all ages.

The $5.3 million project has secured $1.7 million so far and construction, which began today, is expected to be largely complete by fall.

Winefest Celebration

1-6 p.m. — Downtown Coeur d'Alene — Tasting fees apply — Savor fine wines while exploring delightful downtown shops.

Two for the Apocalypse Concert

7 PM – 1 AM — Black Lodge — Cost information not provided — Experience haunting tales and heartfelt harmonies with acoustic renditions of classic country and rock tunes.

History Hour with Jeff Snell

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Coeur d'Alene Public Library — Free entry — Dive into the captivating history of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office with Detective Jeff Snell.