Ritzville is a quaint town located at the junction of I-90 and I-395 in eastern Washington. For those who are not from the surrounding areas, most associate the city with the Starbucks and McDonalds that stand next to the freeway and not as the Adams County seat, the home to 1,600+ people, or a community that finds great value in small businesses.
On February 21, my dad and I had the opportunity to attend the Adams County Legislative Reception focused on economic development in our small communities. Our dear friend, Adams County Economic Development Director and fellow Ritzville resident, Stephen McFadden, organized this annual event in where local businesses would have the chance to connect with our legislators. We very much enjoyed networking with our fellow small business owners and local representatives.
I have been lucky enough to travel to Olympia on a few occasions in my 21 years. Each time I leave the beautiful legislative building at the center of the capitol, I feel encouraged and thankful to live in the State of Washington. This reception was no exception. I had the chance to speak to our group during the dinner, and as I was sharing my family's story and our hopes for MJW, I was looking into the faces of agriculturalists, entrepreneurs, senators, representatives, and my very proud father.
The other business owners that came to the reception are our friends; they have seen me grow up in our small, sweet town of Ritzville. While I was by far the youngest person in attendance, I received nothing but praise and support. It was the first time since we started this company that I felt genuinely confident in my abilities to be a part of this industry. I am more than just a college student, and this event helped solidify that reality. I am an active role of a company that seeks to support small businesses and sheds light on the incredible agricultural industry.
I consider myself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend such an event and look forward to what is to come for not only MJW Grain Inc but also every one of the businesses that were represented at the reception that night. I would encourage our readers to reach out and buy local. Support your neighbors and speak to your representatives, because when we work together, great change can occur.
Until next time - cheers!
Maya Jane, President, and CEO