Karina Elias

Spokane Journal of Business reporter Karina Elias covers the banking and finance industry. A California native, she attended the University of California at Santa Barbara. She loves salsa dancing, traveling, baking, cuddling with her dog, and writing creative fiction and nonfiction.

Lodging comes to Silverwood

Individual cabins are envisioned next to a completed gas station, restaurant shell

November 6, 2025

Karina Elias

Construction crews are building 18 luxury cabins — the second phase of a $13.5 million development that aims to bring higher-end lodging to an area long dominated by recreational vehicle parks and roadside inns.

Banner Bank reports growth as accolades pile up

Financial institution receives national awards, recognitions

September 12, 2024

Karina Elias

Banner Bank is having a banner year as several national awards shine a spotlight on the bank’s financial strength, service and workplace.

Peter Stanton, left, is now the executive chairman of Washington Trust Bank. Jack Heath, right, is now CEO.

Washington Trust names new CEO

Heath becomes first person outside of Stanton family to lead 122-year-old company

April 15, 2024

Karina Elias

W.T.B. Financial Corporation, the holding company for Spokane-based Washington Trust Bank, has changed its leadership structure with four key transitions and promotions within the financial institution’s executive leadership team.
Washington Trust has a branch in Kennewick.