That was then...

From The Wenatchee World, Wednesday, August 13, 2008:

Leavenworth makes National Geographic best places list

By Michelle McNiel
World staff writer

LEAVENWORTH — A growing number of wineries and an abundance of hiking and rock climbing has landed Leavenworth on National Geographic's fourth annual list of the 50 best places to live in the country.

The list, called "The Fifty Next Great Adventure Towns," appears in the latest issue of National Geographic Adventure, which hit newsstands Tuesday.

"A burgeoning winery scene has brought Pinot-and-brie refinement to the brats-and-brews style of this Bavarian-inspired village, just east of the Cascades," the article says. "Explore 5,500 miles of trails in the newly expanded Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest or choose from a thousand-plus climbing routes on the sheer granite towers of Icicle and Tumwater canyons."

Leavenworth Mayor Rob Eaton said the magazine contacted the city months ago seeking information for its article.

"I think it's fantastic," he said, adding that the city is striving to become more environmentally conscious with advancements such as curbside recycling.

"We've enjoyed much success in the media in the last couple of years with 'Good Morning America' coming here twice," he said. "I think our profile nationally has been raised through other media outlets."

Last year, Wenatchee was chosen as one of the top 50 adventure towns by the magazine, which is published 10 times a year with a circulation of 575,000. The magazine is read by an estimated 2.3 million people.

National Geographic spokesman Ethan Fried said the magazine shifted the focus of the list a little bit this year to include the best cities to live that offer adventure and an environmental consciousness.

According to the article, "This year we selected 50 innovative towns that aren't just prime relocation spots right now, but smart choices for the future. Not only do they have the action. They've got a plan."

The cities "range from adventure 24/7 hubs loaded with outdoor options to urban players that offer a variety of jobs and cultural activities without sacrificing green space," the article continues.

Fried said the writers were looking for cities based not only on their proximity to outdoor adventure but also "the attitude toward those resources from the people who live there."