Issue 1 | January 9, 2026
|
A New Year, Still at the Table
|
A new year always arrives with a certain quiet optimism. The calendar turns, the air feels a little cleaner, and for a moment we’re allowed to believe that forward motion is possible.
As we step into this next chapter, there’s real reason for that belief.
Progress rarely arrives with fireworks. More often, it shows up in small, steady steps: conversations that continue, partnerships that deepen, and a growing willingness to stay engaged even when the work feels slow or complicated. Those moments don’t always make headlines, but they matter. They are the foundation of a thriving city.
|
Spokane’s strength has never come from shortcuts. It comes from people who show up: business owners, employees, neighbors, and civic partners, who care enough to keep leaning in. A strong city isn’t built in a single season. It’s built through consistency, patience, and a shared commitment to do what’s necessary, even when it’s hard.
The new year isn’t about resetting the board or rewriting the story. It’s about continuing it with clarity, resolve, and a steady hand. It’s about recognizing that meaningful progress requires persistence, collaboration, and the courage to keep working through challenges rather than around them.
There is good work ahead. The kind that doesn’t always feel glamorous but leaves lasting impact. The kind that strengthens our neighborhoods, supports our workforce, and ensures Spokane remains a place where businesses can grow and communities can thrive.
As we move forward together, let this year be defined not by grand declarations, but by sustained effort. By showing up. By staying engaged. By doing the work that moves a city from hopeful to healthy.
Here’s to a new year: rooted in optimism, guided by purpose, and strengthened by those willing to keep building.
|
JOIN US JANUARY FOR A SPECIAL MEMBER MEETING
January 28, 2026 | 12:00 pm
42 N Hogan Street, Spokane WA (FreshVue)
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
|
We’re pleased to welcome Congressman Michael Baumgartner, who represents Washington’s 5th Legislative District and brings a thoughtful, engaged perspective on the issues shaping our region. As a longtime public servant and advocate for Eastern Washington, Representative Baumgartner understands the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses and neighborhoods like East Central. We appreciate his willingness to join us, listen, and be part of a meaningful conversation with our members.
|
Grab coffee at Indaba and join us upstairs.
Now more than ever, it’s imperative that we connect, engage, and show up alongside our community partners. We’re setting the table for meaningful conversation with Avista centered on collaboration, shared priorities, and moving forward together.
|
DATE: JANUARY 21, 2026
TIME: 12:00 PM
|
Find us at Ignite Northwest
518 West Riverside Ave
(upstairs on 2nd level)
|
Partnering for Progress
Meet Avista’s Business & Public Affairs Team
|
Ryan Bradeen
Director Business & Public Affairs
|
Angela Koker
Manager Account Executives
|
Ryan Arnold
Regional Business Manager
|
Kelsey Solberg
Manager Social Impact
|
The Spokane Police Department maintains an online platform that allows community members to view, and in some cases search, crime statistics data. The platform replaces the department’s previous reporting method and provides user-friendly dashboards that are updated daily.
|
Spokane Business Association gives businesses a united voice, direct access to decision-makers, and a seat at the table where real change happens. Together, we advocate, connect, and grow Spokane’s business community.
|
www.SpokaneBusinessAssociation.com
|
|
