News briefs

Schoesler, Baumgartner honored by WFIA

Washington Senate Majority Leader Mark Schoesler and Sen. Michael Baumgartner were recognized this week for their views on legislation important to local independent grocers, suppliers and other members of the Washington Food Industry Association. 

Baumgartner, R-Spokane, and Schoesler, R-Ritzville, each received the association’s “In the Bag” award during a ceremony Wednesday evening at the Second Harvest food bank in Spokane. The awards are based on votes they cast in 2015 and 2016. 

“As a business owner I appreciate what WFIA members represent to our communities, in terms of the goods they offer and the jobs they support,” Schoesler, a wheat farmer, said.  

“It’s important that the public recognize the importance of food providers, both for the food they provide and the economic growth they create,” Baumgartner said.

Schoesler, Baumgartner and WFIA members in the Spokane area met as part of the association’s “On the Road” campaign.

Sam Song to speak at West Plains chamber

Area businesses are invited to join the West Plains Chamber for its June membership breakfast Wednesday, June 22, and get to know Sam Song. Song is the assistant director for Riverfront Park and the chair of the, award winning, inaugural Washington State Chinese Lantern Festival. 

According to a chamber news release, along with recounting his amazing journey that brought him from China to Spokane, Song is also going to share his excitement and plans for this fall’s upcoming Lantern Festival. 

The breakfast takes place from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at the Shriner’s Event Center, located at 7217 W. Westbow Blvd. Registration can be done online at westplainschamber.chambermaster.com.