With expectations for a short state Legislative session that likely will focus on addressing public education mandates, many legislative priorities for the Spokane-region business community focus on protecting prior and ongoing commitments and encouraging

Gonzaga University has approached the city with conceptual plans for a $14 million project tentatively called the Center for Athletic Achievement. The facility would expand the sports complex that includes the McCarthey Athletic Center and the Martin Cent

Whitworth University says it has named Spokane-based Leone & Keeble Inc. as the general contractor for a big music center remodel and addition project.

Spokane Public Schools is lining up its next three major projects, valued at nearly $60 million, that will be under construction this year and next.

As one of only 37 tribal colleges in the U.S., Spokane Tribal College-which offers classes here and on the Spokane Indian Reservation, at Wellpinit, Wash.-says it's continuing to grow, with increases in enrollment and its annual operating budget.

The executive director of Communities in Schools Spokane County says the nonprofit is looking to train more mentors for at-risk students to keep them on track to attain their high school diplomas.