Lattie Metcalf Small Business Award goes to Islanders

Lower Columbia Economic Development Council board member Sandi Reider had the honor of presenting this year's Small Business Award to Rob and Diane Stockhouse, owners of Stockhouse's Farm and Rog's Retreat on February 6 at Janet's Riverview Restaurant in Cathlamet.

The Stockhouses have been part of the community and working on their farm on Puget Island for nine years. They provide vegetable starts in the spring for many gardens, sell flowers, chicken and duck eggs, and the occasional roasting chicken. They have hosted many guests at Rog's Retreat and parties in their garden.

They were both active participants in the Wahkiakum Agriculture Summits held in 2005 and 2006. In 2006, the summit generated the Food and Farm Network, advertising and a flyer encouraging people to visit local farms. They were also instrumental in forming a farmer's market on Puget Island.

The are both active members of several organizations that contribute to the community and have given generously of their time and talents for the betterment of the area.