As I write this, with the final month as President drawing to a close, I find myself in a season of reflection — and deep, enduring gratitude. “To Spokane, With Love”.

This past year has been a remarkable journey. From the first gavel tap to the last standing ovation, we’ve stayed true to our mission. It’s been a year of service, stories, and celebration — and not one of those things would’ve been possible without the incredible people surrounding this organization.

To our sponsors, thank you for believing in our vision and investing in our shared purpose. Your support has never just been financial — it’s been personal, passionate, and pivotal.

To our Directors and Executive Team, you’ve been the steady hands, the clear voices, and the beating heart behind every event, every success, and every challenge met with grace. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and even prouder of how we’ve done it — with integrity, tradition, and good old-fashioned teamwork.

To our office manager Stacey, thank you for all your hard work keeping us organized, on track, and moving forward. Your servant’s heart, dedication, and tireless attention to detail have been the glue that held us together this year.

This year’s theme, “To Spokane, With Love,” wasn’t just a tagline — it was a heartfelt commitment that guided everything we did. It inspired us to lead with purpose, serve with pride, and celebrate the unique spirit of our community. From parades to partnerships, every effort carried that message of love and gratitude. We’ve fulfilled our mission not only in word but in deed. We’ve stood with our servicemen and women, amplified the voices of young leaders, and put our regional pride on full display — from the mountain peaks to the rolling river valleys, and every spirited corner in between. And yes, there were tears — the happy kind, the proud kind, and maybe one or two that snuck out when I wasn’t looking.

Before I close, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Adriana for her more than two years of dedicated service to the SLFA. Her hard work, heart, and commitment have left a lasting impression, and we sincerely wish her all the very best in her future endeavors. She will always be part of the SLFA story.

As I prepare to pass the torch, I do so with a full heart and a deep respect for those who will carry the mantle forward. The future is bright, and I have no doubt that the next chapter will build beautifully on the one we’ve just closed.

Thank you all for the honor of serving. Thank you for the trust, the laughs, the late nights, and the early mornings. It has truly been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

With respect, appreciation, and fond farewell—

To Spokane, With Love,
Jamie Dedmon
2025 President