Next week I’ll be delivering my annual State of the County Address. I’m excited to talk about the work all of you do to serve the people of Pierce County – especially our youngest residents. As a reminder, you can join us virtually next Wednesday at noon at this link.
At the State of the County in 2022, I introduced folks to Brenda Miller, an entrepreneur and food truck operator. She owns Velvet’s Big Easy, which specializes in Creole and Cajun cuisines. Those who attended in person were treated to her delicious handheld fruit pies. They were fantastic!
Brenda’s story is a testament to the power of a dream and the success one can reach with some support and encouragement.
Brenda was a manager at The Boeing Company when she decided to take her love for the food of her native New Orleans into a new venture. She started with a food truck and went from there.
She attended and graduated from the award-winning Pierce County Business Accelerator program two years ago. Since that time, she has been on the speaking circuit, encouraging other aspiring entrepreneurs with her amazing energy, positivity and grit.
I mention this because this week I had the fun of celebrating the ribbon cutting of her newest enterprise – a full-service restaurant! It was a joyous event and I’m eager to see her business blossom once it is fully open.
Nearly 350 graduates have emerged from the accelerator program ready to grow their businesses and create greater wealth and security for themselves and their families. Another 60 people will begin their own journey next week with the start of the newest cohort. They are in for some exciting weeks ahead, and hopefully a brighter future.
Thanks for reading,
Bruce