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STORIES OF YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS OF KITTITAS COUNTY 2025

FWelcome

Welcome

to the first edition of Faces of Kittitas County, a magazine dedicated to promoting local businesses by showcasing the “Face” of a specific business type.

to the third edition of Faces of Skagit County, a magazine dedicated to promoting local businesses by showcasing the “Face” of a specific business type. Inside, you’ll find stories about your friends and neighbors right here in Skagit County.

Inside, you’ll find stories about your friends and neighbors right here in Kittitas County. Faces of Kittitas County is an example of Native Advertising, a publishing term that means each “Face of” feature is a sponsored page, paid for by the advertiser.

Faces of Skagit County is an example of Native Advertising, a publishing term that means each “Face of” feature is a sponsored page, paid for by the advertiser.

Faces of Skagit County is an example of Native Advertising, a publishing term that means each “Face of” feature is a sponsored page, paid for by the advertiser. This magazine offers a unique opportunity for our community and subscribers to discover the faces behind local businesses, potentially connecting readers with companies they may not have previously known. Our goal is for readers to enjoy learning more about the people who make our community thrive. We hope this fosters a greater sense of community and encourages more of us to shop locally.

This magazine offers a unique opportunity for our community and subscribers to discover the behind local businesses, potentially connecting readers with companies they may not have previously known.

Our goal is for readers to enjoy learning more about the people who make our community thrive.

We hope this fosters a greater sense of community and encourages more of us to shop locally. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this first edition. Selections for Faces of Kittitas County 2026 are now underway. For more information, email advertising@kvnews.com.

This magazine offers a unique opportunity for our community and subscribers to discover the faces behind local businesses, potentially connecting readers with companies they may not have previously known. Our goal is for readers to enjoy learning more about the people who make our community thrive. We hope this fosters a greater sense of community and encourages more of us to shop locally.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this third edition. Selections for Faces of Skagit County 2026 are now underway. For more information, email ads@skagitads.com.

Rebecca Poynter Publisher SKAGIT PUBLISHING

THE FACE OF Banking

Personal service is what sets Cashmere Valley Bank in Ellensburg apart from other banks. “It’s different here,” said Brandon Babin, Vice President and Branch Manager.

“We take pride in knowing that our customers always come first. “We answer the phone,” Babin added. “We’ve always been known for answering our own phone and customers being able to talk directly to their banker whenever needed.”

Cashmere Bank was established Sept. 24, 1932, by two brothers, Hy W. and H.H. Rieke, who moved to Cashmere after selling their interest in another bank in Odessa.

Cashmere was chosen as the site to begin their new bank because the community was without a financial institution after two banks failed during the beginning of the Great Depression. From the mid-1970s to the early 1990s, Cashmere Valley

Bank opened six branches to better serve the Wenatchee, East Wenatchee and Leavenworth communities. Today, Cashmere Valley Bank has grown to include branches in Ellensburg, Cle Elum, Chelan, Yakima and Union Gap, with a municipal office in Bellevue. The bank offers full deposit and lending services for consumers and businesses. It is owned by its shareholders. Since it opened in 1932, the bank has had only three presidents, Babin said.

Babin has eight years of banking experience. He has a wide range of skill sets and attributes within the financial industry, including operation management, credit analysis, and expertise in the commercial lending sector.

He is known for offering a friendly smile and personable connection to anyone and everyone he encounters in the Kittitas community.

Cashmere Valley Bank | 101 W. University Way in Ellensburg | 509-925-3000 www.cashmerevalleybank.com | Member FDIC

Need a home loan? Cashmere Valley Mortgage is the place to go. With a branch in Ellensburg, the company offers a variety of home lending services in Kittitas County, according to Kimmy Bonjorni, mortgage loan originator, NMLS 845599.

“We pride ourselves in being the ‘local bank’ and back up our reputation with excellent customer service,” Bonjorni said. “When you call, email, or stop by a branch you’ll be taken care of by a dedicated member of our team.”

“You’ll always have a live person when needing any sort of assistance,” Bonjorni said. “Of course, you can use our website or mobile banking, but when you call you won’t get lost in a series of automated voice prompts.” Cashmere Valley Bank was founded in 1932 in Cashmere. While it’s always done some sort of home lending, the bank officially started the Home Loan Department in 1986 and was re-branded to Cashmere Valley Mortgage in 2007. The bank’s mortgage product showcase includes:

• Conventional fixed rate (30, 20, 15 years, etc.)

• Cashmere Valley Bank in-house conventional

• Non-conventional and Jumbo 5/1 ARM

• In-house limited income 5/1 ARM (purchase up to 100 percent financing)

• Custom construction and spec construction loans

• Residential lot/land loans

• Jumbo fixed rate

• FHA fixed rate

“We proudly provide our conventional and in-house mortgage loans here locally in the markets we serve,” she said. Kimmy Bonjorni has been with Cashmere Valley Bank since 2009 and has a wide range of knowledge and experience in the banking industry, from operations to management, credit analysis, and loan originating. She prides herself on excellent customer service and enjoys helping her clients in the Kittitas County market.

After working in the food and beverage industry for more than a decade, Mackenzie Cohen decided it was time to make her dream of owning her own café come true.

Kittitas Café opened in June of 2021.

“It felt risky at the time, but the opportunity was too good, so we jumped in,” Cohen said. “It paid off. The community welcomed us with open arms.”

People are the main reason Cohen decided to open her own place.

“The connection between a barista, or server, and your daily coffee, or a baker or cook with a comforting pastry or meal is unlike anything else,” she said. “I’ve always loved coffee and food”, Cohen said, and it shows in her award winning restaurant.

The Kittitas Cafe offers baked goods made in house, high quality espresso, breakfast, lunch, and a communal hub with exceptional customer service. Hospitality is an important priority to Mackenzie. “It starts with taking care of your staff, making them feel appreciated, trusted, heard and compensated,” she said. “In turn, that allows

them to put their best foot forward. With that comes exceptional customer service, quality products, and a staff that sticks around. We want anyone who walks through our door to feel like a regular whether it’s their first time or their 100th time.”

Cohen said the “employee first” mentality and the staff’s genuine interest in making customers feel loved and heard is what sets them apart from other coffee shops or cafes.

“Also, our coffee is just really, really good,” Cohen added.

The Kittitas Cafe is in a 1930s historic building that once housed 6 apartments. She and her family and family friends rebuilt the interior, (installed walls, dry wall, mud and taped etc.). “The dining room table tops are bleachers from the old Ellensburg High School gym,” she said. “The chairs are mid-century from Central Washington University. A lot of our kitchen equipment is second hand, and our stage is an old truck box.”

They added the stage so that they can host a summer concert series each year and offer their community music for free. Watch their website on social media for details.

Senior Living

There’s lots of living going on at Hearthstone Senior Living, says Kayla McCarthy, executive director at the senior living complex.

“A common misconception about assisted living is that residents experience a loss of independence,” McCarthy said. “But that couldn’t be further from the truth.”

Residents are encouraged to stay as independent as possible, she said.

“We will support their needs,” McCarthy added. “Want to go swimming at the pool? You’ve got it. Let’s jump in. Planning a Sunday tea party? We’ll handle the sandwiches.”

And the staff at Hearthstone will be there to help with medications or help you get out of the favorite recliner, she said.

“A caregiver is just a call away,” McCarthy said. “At Hearthstone, we show up for you, empowering you to live life to the fullest.”

Hearthstone is a senior living community offering independent living and assisted living options. It creates specifically tailored service plans for each of the residents.

Hearthstone also offers independent living option where residents can enjoy their independence while not worrying about cooking, cleaning or transportation.

Hearthstone has offered care for seniors since the early 1990s.

“We have cared for generations of Ellensburg locals,” McCarthy said. “One of my favorite things is touring individuals and seeing the connections made when they see old classmates, neighbors and even members of their own family.”

Hearthstone’s priority is people, she said.

“Our residents, their families, and our team members are treated with respect,” she said. “At Hearthstone we are committed to delivering exceptional care that our seniors deserve.”

Equally, she said, they are dedicated to supporting their team by fostering an outstanding work environment for all.

Hearthstone is a home, McCarthy said.

“With deep roots in Ellensburg, we are passionate about the care we provide. What truly sets us apart is how we treat everyone who walks through our doors like family — whether it’s someone exploring assisted living, a family member, a local healthcare partner or even a contractor working on repairs.

“Our focus is always on people. This commitment is evident to everyone who steps inside.”

Meaghan

Bickel didn’t always plan to be a photographer.

“I actually studied psychology and worked in social services and mental health,” she said. “Then, about 11 years ago, I got an old, used ‘fancy camera’ for my birthday and started photography as a hobby.” What began as a side gig quickly turned into something more. “I did it part-time for five years before going full-time, and I’ve had my studio for the past two years,” she said. “This year, 2025, marks 10 years in business!” Now, as the owner of Joy Photography, Bickel is passionate about creating more than just beautiful portraits— she’s dedicated to making the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free.

A Personalized, Full-Service Photography Experience

“Joy Photography is all about making sure clients not only get stunning images but also love the process of creating them,” Bickel said. From the moment clients step into her bright and airy studio—often described as a “true treasure”—they are met with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Her self-described “quirky and goofy demeanor” helps people feel at ease, leading to natural, heartfelt portraits. The studio specializes in family, maternity, newborn, baby, wedding, and event photography, as well as branding, headshots, and boudoir sessions. Each session is designed with the client in mind, with a focus on high-end prints and products meant to be displayed and cherished for generations.

More Than Just Digital Files

Unlike many photographers who primarily deliver digital images, Joy Photography focuses on heirloom-quality print products—including wall art, digital images, and beautifully crafted albums.

Clients are encouraged to schedule a planning session at the studio before their session to discuss their vision and explore the best ways to showcase their portraits.

Giving Back to the Community

Outside of photography, Bickel is a mom, an animal lover, and an aspiring hobby farmer. She actively supports her local community by donating portrait sessions to charity auctions and offering pro-bono shoots for meaningful causes. She has also been the official photographer for the Kittitas County Fair for several years.

A Studio Designed for Comfort & Creativity

The Joy Photography studio is known for its abundance of natural light, creating a bright and peaceful environment that enhances the photography experience. “Clients are often amazed by the studio’s simple beauty,” Bickel said.

“That serene setting adds to the magic of capturing timeless portraits. Whether we do your special session at the studio, your home, or outdoors, I guarantee you’re going to love them.”

Book a Session

Joy Photography operates by appointment and offers a fullservice, customized experience from start to finish.

Joy Photography | 116 S. Main St. Kittitas | 509-851-5089 | www.JoyPhotography.net | joyphotographyellensburg@gmail.com

THE FACE OF

Public Transportation

Ellensburg Central Transit is vital to our community as the service aids in reducing traffic congestion, parking shortages and tailpipe emissions. It also stimulates the local economy by connecting passengers to local businesses, employment opportunities, essential services and education as well as to biking and pedestrian trails and other modes of transportation.

That’s according to Betsy Dunbar, Transit Manager for Ellensburg Central Transit.

The Ellensburg Public Transit service began in 2016 when the Ellensburg City Council authorized a special election for a Sales and Use tax of .02 percent. It resulted in a 63% voter approval by Resolution 2016-03.

On Jan. 1, 2017, the City of Ellensburg assumed operation of Ellensburg Central Transit, operating 2 routes with 24 bus stops and 4 bus shelters.

In 2019 service expanded from 2 to 5 routes and added ADA Paratransit and Cabulance services. Currently there are 82 bus stops, which include 16 bus shelters.

According to Dunbar, Ellensburg Central Transit is a rural public transit system serving the general public within the city limits of Ellensburg.

Operations include an accessible fixed route system for the general public, a complimentary door-to-door ADA Paratransit

service for riders who are unable to access the fixed route bus system due to a disability, and a 24-7 non-emergency medical transportation service called “Cabulance” for individuals who need an accessible vehicle to travel to and from specific medical facilities as initiated by contracted facilities.

All services are operated through a contract with HopeSource, a nonprofit organization based in Ellensburg.

“Our contractor, HopeSource houses their operations in the historical train depot on Third Avenue,” she said.

All buses have bike racks and are ADA accessible.

“And the best part is all Ellensburg Central Transit services are fare-free,” Dunbar said.

An important priority at Ellensburg Central Transit is to provide safe, reliable, equitable transportation services to low income, minority, seniors, students and the general population.

“All Ellensburg Central Transit buses carry language cards for passengers with limited or no English proficiency,” Dunbar said.

“Route maps and schedules are posted at every bus stop and are labeled with the routes they service. Bus schedules are available in both English and Spanish and are available on the buses and at www.centraltransit.org.”

Riders are encouraged to download the TRANSIT app to plan their trips and get real time bus arrival and departure times.

Ellensburg Central Transit | 501 N. Anderson St., Ellensburg | 509-925-8680 | www.centraltransit.org

THE FACE OF

Realty

IMultiple losses in 2020 brought Nicole Prigge-Taylor to begin a new career in real estate.

“My business was born out of the ashes of a great deal of grief that occurred in the first half of 2020,” Prigge-Taylor recalled.

“My partner at the time and I experienced the tragic loss of our twins very far along in the pregnancy in January. The uncertainty of the pandemic hit in March — and by May I found myself unemployed for the first time since I was 14.”

She spent the previous decade giving “every ounce of passion, productivity, and creativity to the dreams of other business owners.”

“I knew if I was ever going to pursue my own passion this could be my only shot,” Prigge-Taylor said.

Expecting again, Prigge-Taylor knew she had only nine months to get her real estate license, associate with a firm, and establish her business to support her family.

“I took everything that my previous mentors had taught me and worked harder than ever before to learn as many concepts with as much depth as possible.”

That was the beginning of the Nicole Prigge-Taylor’s journey to join Coldwell Banker Central. In October of 2020, she chose to affiliate with Coldwell Banker Central, which is currently located in a beautiful brick building that previously was home to Kelly Realty Building (south of Pasta Co. and north of Hotel Windrow).

As a real estate agent and broker, she serves clients in Kittitas Country primarily and Yakima and Grant counties secondarily.

“I help individuals through the property buying and/or selling journey with easy-to-digest information, clear communication, and a little bit of humor,” she said.

For Prigge-Taylor, educating her clients is important.

“As the daughter of an educator, I strongly believe educated individuals are more confident and comfortable facing complex decisions,” she said. “My approach involves a great amount of client education as we approach each milestone so my clients can move from stage to stage with confidence and calm.”

Prigge-Taylor said her focus on education, professionalism, and vulnerability are what sets her apart from other real estate agents.

“I have balanced the ability to walk through any client experience with a high level of professionalism while being extremely vulnerable. Sales can be dehumanizing and I have done my very best to protect the humanity within real estate.”

“While many sales are to welcome a coming of age, marriage, or bringing in new life to a family, there are just as many individuals who are facing grief-filled changes that necessitate a sale; divorce, death, or a drastic life change.”

Prigge-Taylor also believes in giving back to the community.

“Having experienced what it was like being in a vulnerable population, I made a 10-year goal that wasn’t about sales or earnings, but about giving back. I vowed to donate $250 to one of six local nonprofits near and dear to my heart for every client who buys or sells with me.

“My big goal is to donate $90,000 to local nonprofits by Jan. 1, 2032. Because of my loyal and wonderful friends and family, we are a third of the way there.”

She gives each client the opportunity to help choose where the $250 will go.

The business is located at 508 N Main St. in Ellensburg and Prigge-Taylor is available at 509-859-3458 and be found at @nicoleptrealty on both Facebook and Instagram.

Nicole Prigge-Taylor - Coldwell Banker Central | www.ellensburghomeforsale.com | nicoleptrealty@gmail.com

For four generations, Knudson Lumber has served Kittitas County’s lumber needs.

“We take a lot of pride in being able to say we are a fourthgeneration business,” said Cheryl Brown, marketing manager for Knudson Lumber & Hardware.

The business has a rich history.

It was started in 1940 by Carl Knudson. He added it to the other ventures he was operating and struck a deal with Charles Lambson, owner of a mill near Kittitas, becoming business partners.

In 1946, Carl Knudson bought out the remaining interest in the Kittitas Mill and renamed the business Carl Knudson Lumber.

Portions of the mill burned in the 1950s, and ultimately were completely lost to fire in 1958, leaving Carl to relocate the business where it stands today.

In 1970, Carl’s nephew Dale purchased the family business and in 1991, Bob (Dale’s son) bought the family business and expanded the retail sales area and lumber storage.

Bob and his wife Cindy are the current owners.

“Today, we celebrate 85 years of growth and service to our community,” Brown said.

The Knudson Lumber ideology is based upon a trustworthy and dependable team that provides their customers with excellent service and quality lumber and building materials, Brown said.

“Our ability to be proactive and invest in company assets positions Knudson Lumber as a leader,” she said. “Our customers can count on us for quality lumber and building materials for years to come.”

Knudson Lumber & Hardware offers lumber and building materials, doors and windows, electrical needs and plumbing, hardware, paint and paint sundries, hand and power tools, pavers and landscaping blocks, lawn and garden needs, millwork and other things needed for outdoor living.

Knudson Lumber & Hardware has a philosophy of putting the customer first. Paying attention to detail is another important focus.

“Our attention to detail is what sets us apart,” Brown said. “We look forward to meeting our customers’ needs now and in the future.”

Besides supplying lumber needs, the company also has a full cut shop.

“We can cut, trim, plane, edge and rip most anything,” Brown said.

“We are currently supplying builders with shelving for closets, pantries and garage storage.”

Knudson Lumber & Hardware recently purchased Superior Millwork & Door, a shop offering premium doors, millwork and siding for contractors and homeowners.

And something that most area residents don’t know is that Knudson Lumber & Hardware has expanded their offerings.

Knudson’s recently purchased Superior Millwork & Door, a shop in Ellensburg offering premium doors, millwork and siding for contractors and homeowners.

To learn more about Superior Millwork & Door, visit: https://www.superiormillwork-door.com/

THE FACE OF Your Local Undertaker

ith locations in Ellensburg and Cle Elum, Johnston & Williams Funeral Home and Crematory has been part of Kittitas County’s heritage since 1920. One of the only local businesses to offer 24-hour service, 365 days a year, community is important to owner Henry D. Johnston, who wears multiple hats as funeral director, embalmer and business owner.

“Johnston & Williams, and its predecessor owners, have been providing quality funeral and cremation services to Kittitas County for over 100 years,” Henry Johnston said. “When we say that we are Kittitas County’s locally owned funeral homes, we mean it wholeheartedly and unequivocally. We live here, we work here, and we are incredibly involved in our community” he added.

Johnston outlined a rich tradition in the area. “We can trace our roots in the Ellensburg community back to 1913 when Murvy Bridgham purchased the WK Briley Funeral Parlor, which was located on the first floor of the Masonic Building on Sixth Avenue.” he said.

After Bridgham was shot in the chest by an unknown assailant in 1919, the business was purchased by John T. Honeycutt who worked with his two sons. John H. and Elbert. The Honeycutt family sold the business in 1946 to George and Betty Evenson who operated it as Evenson Funeral Home for 38 years until their retirement in 1984, when they sold it to longtime employee and friend, Paul Cotton. Cotton later purchased the funeral home in Cle Elum from Earl Brown in 1986. Both funeral homes were sold to Chris Steward & Ed Williams in 1990, who operated them under Steward &

Williams in Ellensburg and Cascade Funeral Home in Cle Elum. The duo sold the firms to a corporation in 1998.

“The firm endured nearly 20 years of corporate ownership before being returned to family ownership in 2017 when they were bought by the Gaffney Group of Tacoma” Johnston said, “and it was November of 2017 when I first moved to town as manager.”

Full local ownership was achieved in July 2020 when Johnston purchased the firms from Gaffney and renamed both firms Johnston & Williams.

Since that time, Johnston has made it a point to be involved in the community, with the funeral home sponsoring and donating to events for charitable and other causes in both upper and lower county. The firms have also been recognized four years in a row by the National Funeral Directors Association as a Pursuit of Excellence award recipient.

“Being a good corporate citizen and a supporter of the community is very important to me,” he said, “I see it as reinvesting in the success of the communities that have been so supportive of me and my business over the years. Everything comes full circle.”

He also pointed out that when compared to all other funeral and cremation providers in the area, Johnston & Williams has the only licensed crematory physically located in Kittitas County, which has been the case for over 30 years.

“Those entrusted to our care never leave our facility in Ellensburg,” he said. “Everything is done right here in town. To me, at least, knowing that my loved one won’t be driven one or more counties away to be cremated is comforting.”

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