Walla Walla had been hoping for the reinstatement of a fourth flight to and from Seattle. However, the greater capacity will go a long way to increase both business and visitor traffic.

According to Bombardier’s website, the Q400 is the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft of its size in the world, burning 30 percent less fuel and producing 30 percent less CO2 than a comparable jet.  Passengers will appreciate the larger overhead bins designed to accommodate standard roller bags. Furthermore, the “Q” in the model number stands for “Quiet” due to the Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system on the technologically advanced turboprop airliners.

In his article in the PI today, he yawns about the growing number of new wineries in the state, citing that their micro contribution is a mere drop in the very large Riedel wineglass that is the marketplace. He wonders how long it will be before a number of them go out of business.

The wine industry is exactly that, a business and like all businesses, some will fail. For a few, it might be the economic climate. However, the majority of those that might fail, they will do so due to other factors: poor product, not responding to consumer demands, meager capital and a lack of understanding in business fundamentals.

Yes, there is a bit of gold rush fever in Washington wine country and we admire that pioneering spirit. In this global age, when products can be manufactured anywhere, wine is one of the few items that represents both its place and the passion of its winemakers.

And in the end, that is what our wine visitors come to see and taste; human endeavor and passion in an otherwise cynical world.