Making Spokane the City of Choice has reflected the vision behind the Spokane Business Association: a stronger, safer, more vibrant community where people want to live, work, build businesses, and create a future.

This summer, those words have taken on a deeper meaning.

In the weeks since the devastating wildfires, we have seen Spokane tested in ways none of us could have anticipated. We have watched first responders run toward danger, neighbors open their doors, businesses step forward, and organizations across our region work side by side to help those whose lives were suddenly changed.

Through tremendous loss, we have also witnessed the strength of this community.

Because a city of choice is defined by more than growth, opportunity, or economic success. It is defined by its people. By how we respond when our neighbors need us. By whether we stand together when circumstances are hardest. And by our willingness to rebuild, recover, and keep moving forward.

The fires showed us Spokane at its most tested. At this year's Annual Dinner, we gather to talk about Spokane at its most possible.

As we look toward the future, we do so with a renewed understanding of what makes this community worth choosing, worth investing in, and worth fighting for.