For its latest episode of Elevating The Conversation, the Journal sat down with Ryan Herzog, an economics professor at Gonzaga University, for its Mid-Year Economic Outlook.

Eight years ago, when the Journal last caught up with Denielle Waltermire-Stuhlmiller, owner of Simply Northwest gift shop, sloths, unicorns, mermaids, and llamas reigned in popularity. While current tastes have shifted to cherries, chickens, book-lover merchandise, and bees, the Spokane Valley-based retailer maintains a proactive approach to stay ahead of the curve.

Spokane-based Metal Rollforming Systems Inc. is relocating to a new manufacturing hub in Deer Park, where several steel commercial buildings are proposed for development at Stag Industrial Park, at 2101 E. Sixth