Four win Path to Success grants
By Terry Murry on Thursday, July 20th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – The Pendleton Development Commission has approved issuing four $20,000 Path to Success grants. The money is used to help start businesses proposed for Pendleton’s urban growth area. How soon those businesses will be opening their doors varies with the applicants.
“Some of them aren’t ready to go right now, they’re still going to need a couple of months,” Mayor John Turner said. “Some of them are still looking for a location.”
This round of grants began with 38 applicants. The PDC Jump Start Committee narrowed them down to four, which was one more than the PDC expected to award.
“The fiscal year ended just a few weeks ago so it looked like enough carried over to this year to make a fourth grant possible,” Turner said.
The process looks at past business experience, plans to market the business, and whether the applicant has at least $10,000 to put into the business as well. The committee also considers a hard-copy business plan for each applicant as well as the results of in-person interviews with the finalists.
Painted Fringe Boutique will sell clothing for men, women, and children. The applicant, Kelsie Bostwick, says she and her partners are expanding a business in Lakeview to include Pendleton and broaden their market. She points out the lack of stores selling new (not used) clothing in the Round-Up City.
The Flying X Speakeasy Lounge is located in the old Crabby’s and is owned by Timothy and Markus McFetridge. The lounge is being decorated in 1930s decor and will offer appetizers and entrees for lunch and dinner, with an emphasis on Italian cooking as well as full bar service. They also plan live music in what they describe as a family-friendly atmosphere.
Moe’s Tea Café is owned by Whitney Minthorn and Moeuth Soeum, who also own Moe’s Pho downtown and at Wildhorse. The shop, which will also feature a drive-through, will focus on a wide range of beverages and snacks. Numerous teas with Boba or fruit extracts added upon request, a full espresso menu, smoothies, protein shakes, and a wide variety of snacks will be offered.
Stitches Mercantile has not yet found a location for its store. Judy and Rick Vicek plan to be open six days a week selling quilting fabric and services, notions, and patterns. They envision eventually offering quilting classes. They will offer high-quality materials that aren’t available locally.
