August 9, 2026 | Nishinomiya, Japan Mayor Reaches Out After Unprecedented Wildfires in Spokane
Subject: Message of Sympathy Following the Wildfires
Dear Mayor Brown,
On behalf of the City of Nishinomiya and its citizens, I would like to express our deepest sympathy and concern following the devastating wildfires that have affected Spokane and the surrounding communities. We are deeply saddened to learn that the fires have caused extensive damage, forced many residents
to evacuate their homes, and taken away homes and cherished belongings from members of the Spokane community. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to everyone who has been affected by this tragedy. We also express our deepest respect to the firefighters, emergency responders, law enforcement officers, city officials, volunteers, and all those who have been working tirelessly, often under extremely difficult and dangerous conditions, to protect the lives and safety of the people of Spokane.
The City of Nishinomiyaand the City of Spokane have shared a friendship that spans more than six decades since the establishment of our sister-city relationship in 1961- Over the years, our citizens have built lasting bonds through cultural, educational, and youth exchanges, as well as through
countless personal connections between our two communities. The warm friendship and bonds that we have received from the people of Spokane over these many yeaxs are deeply cherished by the people of Nishinomiya.
For this reason, at this difficult time, please know that even here in Nishinomiya far across the Pacific Ocean, our thoughts are with the people of Spokane. We are encouraged to hear that the situation is gradually improving through the tireless efforts of firefighters and emergency personnel. We sincerely hope that the fires will be fully contained as soon as possible and that all residents will be able to return safely to their homes. Above all, we hope that those who have been affected by the fires will soon are able to regain a sense of safety and peace in their daily lives, and that the people of Spokane will be able to return to their normal lives as soon as possible.
At this difficult time, we deeply cherish the enduring friendship and bonds between Spokane and Nishinomiya, and hope that this friendship will continue for many years to come. Please accept, on behalf of the citizens of Nishinomiya, our heartfelt wishes for the safety and wellbeing of everyone in Spokane, for the earliest possible containment of the fires, and for a swift recovery.
Sincerely,
Toshiro Ishii
Mayor, City of Nishinomiya
August 4, 2026 | Cagli, Italy Mayor Reaches Out After Unprecedented Wildfires in Spokane
Subject: Message of solidarity and closeness to the City of Spokane
Dear Mayor Brown,
It is with deep concern and heartfelt sorrow that I, along with the entire community of Cagli, am following the dramatic news regarding the devastating wildfires currently affecting the City of Spokane, threatening lives and destroying parts of your territory.
The sister-city bond that has united our two cities for ten years now is not merely a formal agreement, but a sentiment of genuine brotherhood that shows its strength especially during times of great difficulty. In these dark hours, I wish to express my deepest solidarity to you on behalf of myself, the City Administration, and all the citizens of Cagli.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families forced to evacuate, to those who have suffered losses, and to all the people of Spokane who are facing this emergency with courage. We also express our deepest gratitude and admiration for the firefighters, volunteers, and all first responders working tirelessly on the front lines to contain the flames and protect the community. Cagli stands with you. We remain at your full disposal for any form of support or assistance that our community can provide.
With thoughts of our most sincere and fraternal closeness, I send you my warmest regards.
Alberto Alessandri
Mayor of Cagli
Summer 2026 | No Board Meeting in July or August
The next scheduled meeting is on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 and will be held in a hybrid format meeting at City Hall and also via Teams.
Spring/Summer 2026 | Recruiting New Board Members
At a time when global tensions often dominate the headlines, the Sister Cities Association of Spokane (SCAS) offers something different: connection. For decades, SCAS has built relationships with communities around the world through cultural exchange, education, and citizen-to-citizen diplomacy. These partnerships create real opportunities for learning and collaboration.
Spokane currently has five Sister Cities and one Friendship City, with additional partnerships in development. Now, we’re inviting others to be part of this work.
SCAS is recruiting new members to serve on its Board of Directors, including At-Large, Youth, and Secretary positions. These volunteer roles are ideal for individuals who value cultural exchange and community leadership. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to engage locally while making a global impact, we encourage you to apply.
The Board of Directors meets the first Tuesday of every month in the Sister City Conference Room in Spokane City Hall from 3-5 pm. From time to time, we also meet through digital media. We do not have regular meetings during July and August.
Application Process:
- Please look over the SCAS website to learn more details of each individual Sister City, and how we operate as an Association. The Mayor of Spokane, Lisa Brown, serves as ex-officio President, and Dr. John S. Caputo is currently the President of the Association.
- Complete a letter of interest, list two professional references, and attach a CV or resume that summarizes your abilities and interest in serving. Applications can be emailed to jcaputo1@mac.com or postal mailed to:
Sister Cities Association of Spokane
PO Box 18002
Spokane, WA 99228