STEVENSON — A&J Market business owners Andra and John Mobley received the “Leadership on Main” Award at the Washington State Main Street Program’s annual Excellence on Main ceremony in Tacoma last month, recognized for their long-standing commitment to communication, dedication to employees and quiet but powerful leadership
Breanne Durham, Director of the Washington Main Street Program, delivered a speech honoring the couple, highlighting the loyalty and generosity that have kept A&J a pillar of the Stevenson community for over 30 years.
“Andra and John have called Stevenson home for decades, raising their family there and embedding their love for the place into A&J Market,” Durham said. “It’s a vital employer in Stevenson, often the first job for high school students.”
The Mobleys have cultivated a business rooted in personal relationships and local investment, raising over $350,000 for local youth, education and nonprofit causes. Today, the store sponsors virtually every event in town — from local sports teams to fundraisers — and is known for its quiet yet consistent giving.
“They’ve driven through snowstorms to ensure staff could arrive safely and the community never lost access to groceries,” Durham said
In 2021, A&J became the third retailer in Washington certified for online EBT — after Amazon and Walmart — providing rural families with dignified, safe grocery access. And during the pandemic, A&J shared inventory with neighboring stores to prevent shortages, setting aside competition for the greater good.
In addition to the significant role they play as business owners, John and Andra are also involved in community groups, including the Stevenson Downtown Association, Skamania County Chamber of Commerce, county fair board and local education foundation. Their volunteerism runs the gamut — from chairing boards to stringing lights and leading student kayaking expeditions.
As the Stevenson Downtown Association’s (SDA) Executive Director, Kelly O’Malley McKee puts it, “Their story is one of service without fanfare, sustained generosity, and quiet leadership, and Stevenson would not be the same without them.”
John Mobley accepted the award on behalf of himself and Andra. “It’s humbling to be recognized for something that’s really been a shared effort from the beginning,” Mobley said. “Our team has stood by us through every change, and the people of Stevenson have supported us along the way. We’re so grateful to the SDA and to everyone who helps make this community such a special place to live and work.”
A&J Market celebrated its 30th anniversary last July, located at 265 2nd St.
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