The heartbeat of innovation in North Central Washington

Terry Ward

As I reflect on the stories featured in this month's Wenatchee Business Journal, I'm struck by the vibrant pulse of innovation and community spirit that courses through North Central Washington. Our region is not just growing; it's evolving in ways that honor our roots while embracing the future.

Take Rustic Rise Café & Bakery, where Holly Vejar has turned her grandmother's culinary legacy into a thriving business. In just five short months, she's gone from a credit union branch manager to a full-time entrepreneur, delivering artisanal sourdough and unique local treats across the state. Holly's story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives here – one that blends tradition with innovation and isn't afraid to take risks.

Then there's The Springs, set to open this fall in Leavenworth. Marco Scheuer and Vincent LaBelle's outdoor hydrotherapy spa is more than just a business venture; it's a love letter to our region's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. Their commitment to creating an experience that's "of this place" showcases how new businesses can enhance our community's character rather than dilute it.

Boulder Bend Glassworks in Peshastin offers another facet of our region's creative economy. Jori Delvo and Craig Sorensen's studio isn't just producing art; it's inviting the public to witness and appreciate the craft of glassblowing. Their work embodies the intersection of art, science, and education that can set our region apart in the broader economic landscape.

Perhaps most inspiring is Upper Valley MEND's mobile food pantry initiative. By bringing fresh, local produce directly to migrant worker camps, they're not just addressing food insecurity – they're building bridges between different parts of our community and ensuring that our region's bounty is shared more equitably.

These stories paint a picture of a region that's not content to simply grow, but is determined to grow thoughtfully and inclusively. From artisanal bakeries to high-tech spas, from ancient crafts to innovative social programs, we're seeing a diverse tapestry of enterprises that are making North Central Washington an even more vibrant place to live and work.

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, let's continue to support and celebrate these local innovators. Their success is our success, and their creativity is the heartbeat of our economic future. Together, we can ensure that North Central Washington remains not just a beautiful place to visit, but a thriving, dynamic community to call home.

Terry Ward is the CEO of Ward Media and the publisher of the NCW News, Cashmere Valley Record, Lake Chelan Mirror, The Leavenworth Echo, Quad City Herald, and the Wenatchee Business Journal. He can be reached at terry@ward.media.