Lep-Re-Kon Harvest Foods opens new store

June 19, 2025

By: Katherine Trowbridge

Customers were all smiles as they entered the new Lep-Re-Kon Harvest Foods for the first time last week. The store officially opened its doors on Wednesday, June 11 in Connell.

The new Lep-Re-Kon welcomes people with a patriotic flare on the front of the building with a flag, Eagle, and grain bins displayed. Inside, the store is much bigger featuring a floral section, deli, produce, coolers with doors, meat department and so much more.

The new store is better than many anticipated. People asked, “Are we still in Connell?”

Many stated the store felt like you were in the Tri-Cities or big city. One customer stated, “I’m really excited. It’s a great thing for our community. It’s like you’re in Tric-Cities at Yokes or something.”

Community members of all ages were taking it in. Bella Lopez said, “It’s very nice.”

Alene Abenth stated, “It is so nice, I love the produce department.”

“It’s amazing, so nice, so needed,” Kara Mauseth expressed.

Adam and Michelle Kester as well as Katrina Kunkel enjoyed the personal touches from the mural in the entryway of the store showcasing our community to the Home of the Eagles diplayed above the floral department.

Staff at the store were just as excited for the new store taking it all in along with their customers.

Joe Escalera, a Connell City Councilman, and longtime Connell resident was the first to shop

the new store.

Some of the things people shared that they are liking included the larger space, cold drinks, the big deli section, more variety, and the new produce section and meat sections.

Andrew Montemayor shared in the opening day joining staff and customers for the experience. He stated that he only heard positive feedback so far. The Montemayors are excited for the Connell Community and look forward to seeing the old store demolished and the new parking lot take shape.

The former store is set to begin demolition this week with the parking lot anticipated to be complete by October. The new store is located directly behind the old store.

Be sure to support this investement in our community by Lep-Re-Kon.