Wasco Market staff are pictured in front of the store on Monday, March 5. From left are Jim Bird, Shelly Bird, Alyssa Weis, owner Michelle Lawrence, Linda Cornie and Kayla Hays. Not pictured is Stiehl Green.
The original Wasco Market, pictured in spring 2020 before the new owners took over operations and began renovations.
The historic Wasco Market has come a long way in just four short years, and its crew has clearly made quite an impact on their community.
Owners Michelle and Travis Lawrence were presented with Sherman County's 2023 Small Business of the Year award last month at the Oregon Frontier Chamber of Commerce annual membership meeting.
Michelle Lawrence said all credit goes to their dedicated and hardworking staff.
"I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with at the market," Michelle Lawrence said. "Each and every one treats the store like it's their own, which as a business owner brings me great pride."
Wasco Market clerk Shelly Bird said she loves being part of this crew.
"It's like working with your family, and we all work as a team," Bird said.
Clerk Alyssa Weis agreed, saying this has been her favorite job by far.
"We're all close-knit," she said. "We're a family, you know? We like when people come in and we can make their day happy, and every little thing we do here matters."
The store's history dates back almost as far as the town itself - at least 115 years, making it arguably the longest-running brick-and-mortar business in Wasco.
The Lawrences have lived in Sherman County almost 20 years, and Travis Lawrence has deep family ties to the community. His mother Linda Cornie (VanGilder) served as county clerk for nearly 30 years.
They took ownership of the Wasco Market in spring 2020 and have worked tirelessly to renovate both the interior and exterior of the building. Situated in the heart of downtown Wasco, the market now features a new front facade, awning, paint job and signage. The interior of the building has also gotten a facelift, all while preserving its original rustic charm.
The market is well known in the community for its deli and meat counter, fresh produce and local gifts, as well as a fully stocked liquor, wine and beer selection. It also offers fresh-made sandwiches, take-and-bake pizza and hot deli snacks.
Brooklynn Griffith of Oregon Frontier Chamber said in their award announcement that the market's dedication to its community, especially during times of crisis and inclement weather, is a huge part of the reason they were chosen for this honor.
"Their well-stocked market serves as a lifeline for locals," Griffith said. "But their contributions extend far beyond convenience. Travis and Michelle have become pillars of support for the community of Wasco, generously sponsoring and donating to local events and actively participating in their organization."
Michelle Lawrence said it all comes back to working with such a great team.
"I love my crew like family, and I know they have made an impact, not only on the store but also on our wonderful customers," she said.
Reader Comments(0)