January 2020
WELCOME 2020!
WELCOME MESSAGE FROM NEW BOARD CHAIR JAYNE BOND, PRESIDENT/OWNER, PERMAPOST PRODUCTS COMPANY, INC.
What a great and
historic year for the Hillsboro Chamber. I am so honored to be leading this organization at this important time. A very special thanks to Sarah McGrawPlaster for guiding Jayne Bond, Chair the Chamber with passionate leadership and masterful resolve over the past two years.
As I take the gavel, I can’t help but be a bit overwhelmed thinking about what lies ahead as we look forward to celebrating our 125th Anniversary this year. Being the Chair of the Board during this momentous occasion is truly so special. My father, William Bond, was President (title now referred to as Chair) of the Board of Directors of the Hillsboro Chamber in 1967. History does repeat itself! I’m looking forward to exploring our past, hearing the stories and discovering the many ways the Chamber has been a part of the Hillsboro community. Be sure to check-out Deanna’s column outlining the many activities related to our 125th Anniversary Celebration. You won’t want to miss any part of this exciting year! We also have other important work to accomplish all throughout the year. Our 2020 Strategic Planning Session will take place in February and I am excited to work with our members, board and leadership to develop a plan that will help us continue to build a sustainable, growing, diverse and thriving organization. The Chamber will produce nine signature events in 2020. We have several new programs and events and a variety of programs aimed at helping you grow your business and make new connections. While being involved isn’t required to benefit, there are many ways to amplify your investment if you’re looking for ways to participate. Here are just a few ways to engage:
• The Chamber’s advocacy efforts are led by Public Policy Committee Chair Josh Tompkins, Dick’s Auto Group. The group meets every month on the second Wednesday over the lunch hour. There is always room for members to attend and learn more about their work. Don’t miss the Thursday, January 9 Hillsboro Legislative Delegation reception from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Chamber. This is a great opportunity to hear from our
Legislators about their priorities going into the 2020 Legislative Session. The Chamber will also present its 2020 Legislative Agenda to Legislators.
• If you are more interested in engaging with other business investors and being a part of welcoming our new investors, the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee would be a great fit for you. Ensuring our new investors quickly feel like a part of the fold, Ambassadors share their sphere of influence, reach out on a regular basis to answer questions or provide information. The Ambassadors also serve as emcees for Wake Up! Hillsboro and participate in the Chamber’s ribbon cutting ceremonies. Chair Robert Groves, Heritage Bank, keeps this lively group corralled…as much as possible! • The Chamber’s Latino Business Advisory Council (LBAC) focuses on programs, events and activities related to our Latinx businesses. Co-Chairs for this group are new Chamber Board member Jose Molina, Molina Insurance Group Inc. and Ivan Hernandez, Hillsboro Hops. This innovative, fast-moving group seeks out opportunities to assist Latinx businesses grow and prosper. LBAC meets monthly the third Wednesday from 8:15 a.m.-9:30 a.m.
• The Small Business Entrepreneurs Council (SBEC) is another opportunity to participate and lend your voice and expertise. While the SBEC has been primarily focused on the development of HIllHub, the Chamber’s co-working space, 2020 plans are to expand the focus. New Chamber Board member, Brad Smith, Winsor Properties, leads this group at monthly meetings held the second Tuesday from 3:00-4:30 p.m. • The Chamber also has groups that are topic driven. If transportation, transit, development & real estate and Chamber financial oversight are of interest, you are welcome to attend any of these meetings as well. That’s quite a list! I hope that information provides you with a bit more information about how we accomplish all we do. Our base of volunteer professionals who give of their time, expertise and intellect are pivotal to our success. Join us! Make new friends! Learn more about your community! Enjoy a very happy and prosperous new year and discover foryourself how 125 years of experience in Hillsboro can help your business!
Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce Mission: To promote business prosperity and a healthy, equitable, inclusive and diverse community by providing information, services and advocacy for our members Misión Promover la prosperidad de los negocios y una comunidad saludable, equitativa, inclusiva y diversa proporcionando información, servicios y abogacía para nuestros miembros. President, Deanna Palm Graphic Designer / Brand Manager, Jen Little JenL@hillchamber.org | 503.726.2149
Chamber Officers Chair Jayne Bond, Permapost Products Past Chair Sarah McGraw-Plaster, Westside Concrete Accessories & Supply Chair Elect Robert Harris, Harris Velázquez Gibbens, Attorneys at Law Vice Chair Laura Moore, Express Employment Professionals Vice Chair Carly Riter, Intel Treasurer Aaron Eichenbaum, CPA President Deanna Palm
Chamber Directors Elizabeth Case, Yellow Dog Consulting Ron Davis, Davis Tool Brandon Flint, Inline Commercial Construction Troy Gagliano, Portland General Electric Tyler Geel, Insomnia Coffee Company Steve Krautscheid, Tuality Healthcare Jaime Miranda, M&M Marketplace Jose Molina, Molina Insurance Group Mike Morey, The Standard Jeremie Murfin, Five Star Guitars Steve Nagy, Port of Portland Tanya Nielson, Kaiser Permanente Brad Smith, Windsor Properties Daniel Pierson, Nike Inc
Ex Officios/Advisory Directors Robby Hammond, City Manager, City of Hillsboro Kemp Shuey, Community Action Steve Callaway, Mayor, City of Hillsboro Martha Callus-McLain, Pacific University Jerry Willey, Washington County Commissioner Chris Villa, PCC Rock Creek Juan Carlos Gonzalez, Metro Councilor Mike Scott, Hillsboro School District 1J DEADLINES January 24, 2020 is the deadline to submit news items for consideration in the February 2020 issue. News or questions may be directed to the publications department at 503.726.2149 or JenL@HillChamber.org. All submissions are subject to editing. Publication of any item in the ADVOCATE is at the sole discretion of the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce.
THANK YOU TO OUR
LEADING INVESTORS diamond
platinum
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION... 2020… IT’LL BE QUITE A PRODUCTION! What an honor to be a part of an organization celebrating 125 years of existence in Hillsboro! You should be proud to be counted as a member of the Hillsboro Chamber, supporting the business community, and investing in the Deanna Palm work of our Chamber with such a rich and storied history. We are so excited to celebrate with you throughout the year. Plans have been underway for the past year…. It’s time to get the party started!
Gold Columbia Bank • Dick's Auto Group • Edwards Realty Trust • Edwards Vacuum • Embassy Suites • Fordham and Co. • Genentech •Heritage Bank • InnVentures • Legacy Health •Pacific Office Automation • Newland Communities / Reed's Crossing • Resource One, Inc • Veta the Realtor silver Advanced Technology Group •Alpha & Omega Semiconductor • Baker Rock Resources • Comcast or Oregon • Epson Portland, Inc.• Hillsboro Hops • Jones & Roth CPAs • La Imperial Panaderia Y Pasteleria • Northwest Natural • PCC - Rock Creek • Portland General Electric • Port of Portland
bronze Colossae Church • D'Angelo Auto Sales • Evergreen Home Loans - The Cathy Kingery Team •M&M Marketplace • Majestic Realty Company • McDonalds-Locally Owned and Operated • Meta Fab, Inc. • Metro West Ambulance • Molina Insurance Group • Pacific Landscape Management • Pacific University • Pack First Properties, Inc. • Qorvo • Skanska USA Building Summit Bank • Sunpower • Wells Fargo Bank, NA • Westside Concrete Accessories & Supply
I want to thank our Anniversary Celebration Sponsors who have made these activities and events possible: Express Employment Professionals, Baker Rock Resources, Applied Materials, Intel, Metro West Ambulance, First Tech Federal Credit Union, NW Natural, Inline Commercial Construction, Molina Insurance Group and Lithtex Printing. We are truly grateful for the interest and desire of these businesses to be a part of our special year.
Here’s a list of some of the exciting events and activities taking place around our 125th Anniversary Celebration…. January ”Discover the Experience of the Hillsboro Chamber” 12-month membership campaign launch. A $250 gift card will be awarded in December to the volunteer who brings in the most new members by the end of 2020! February 18th Launch of Anniversary Celebration from 4:30-6 p.m. at Hillsboro Chamber, RSVP, limited space available. The Board of Trade (later to become the Hillsboro Chamber) was established on February 18, 1895. April 24th Celebrating National Arbor Day Hillsboro Parks & Recreation will assist the Chamber in planting a special tree in a Hillsboro park as well as burying a 2020 Time Capsule. (Additional details to come) May 28th Annual Awards Gala will celebrate past leadership who helped the Hillsboro Chamber build strength, prominence and credibility.
In addition, many of you have contributed as our Points of Light sponsors, providing additional support as well as gaining the opportunity to participate at our “anniversary cake” ceremony set for December 10, 2020. There is still time to get in on the fun and be a part of history. You can up to be a Point of Light Sponsor for only $125 on the Chamber’s website.
July 4th Join the Hillsboro Chamber in building a float and march with us in the 4th of July parade through Downtown Hillsboro.
It’s time to break out that new 2020 calendar and pencil in some important dates!
December 10th Special event closing out a year of celebration and memories. We’ll recognize our Celebration and Points of Light Sponsors at our final 125th Anniversary party.
August 28th Party in the Parking Lot—An Anniversary Wake Up! Hillsboro will be held at the Chamber’s parking lot.
Aaron M. Eichenbaum, CPA, LLC
Gotcha Covered of West Portland
Puppernickel, LLC
AGC Electronics America
Harris Velázquez Gibbens
PuroClean Restoration
ATG
Hillsboro Pharmacy
Qorvo
Banner Bank
Hillsboro Schools Foundation
RFM Seating
Big Duck Media, Inc.
Hutchins TV & Appliance
Mayor Steve Callaway
Bob Rollinger, Weichert Realtors on Main St.
Insomnia Coffee Dapper & Wise
The Standard
Brisbee & Stockton, LLC
Jones & Roth CPAs & Business Advisors
Building Material Specialties Colliers International-Mike Thomas Davis Tool Edwards Center, Inc. Five Star Guitars Fordham & Co. LLP Gaucha Translations
Le’Stuff Antiques, Inc. M&M Marketplace New York Life Pacific Landscape Management
TOK America, Inc. Tuality/OHSU TVW, Inc. Unitus Community Credit Union US Bank - Hillsboro US Bank - North Hillsboro WCVA
Pat Robison, Weichert Realtors on Main St.
Westside Concrete Accessories
PCC - Rock Creek Campus
Windsor Properties
Portland General Electric
WSC Insurance Yellow Dog Consulting Zurbrugg Construction
Only 80 out of 125 available. Don’t Miss Out! $125 each POINTS OF LIGHT SPONSORSHIPS INCLUDE: Name recognition in our commemorative 125th keepsake photo book (given to Leading Investors, Points of Light Sponsors, key community partners). 125th Anniversary commemorative candle at December Holiday Party. Opportunity to participate in the lighting of candles on the 125th anniversary cake. The Board of Trade, founded in 1895, was the first ancestor to the Greater Hillsboro Area Chamber of Commerce. Their belief was “Any community betterment, growth, direction and determination springs from desire for change and leadership.” We believe the same holds true to this day, 125 years later! The Hillsboro Chamber continues the work began in 1895 to foster a vibrant economy, convene important discussions and collaborate with others to achieve greater outcomes. We invite your organization to take part in the celebration and history that brought the Hillsboro Chamber to where it is today.
The Hillsboro Chamber, Where Business Happens Since 1895
OREGON’S NEW BUSINESS TAX STARTING JANUARY 1, 2020! The 2019 Oregon Legislature established a new tax effecting all businesses. While it is called by its misnomer the “Corporate Activity Tax”, the CAT tax actually applies to most types of organizational entities like partnerships, individuals, limited liability companies, trusts, etc. that have commercial activity generated in Oregon in the regular course of their trade or business. It is a tax paid annually for the privilege of doing business in Oregon. Initial expectations are that it will raise about $1 billion in new revenue annually. These funds are to be set aside for exclusive use for education and school purposes. By now, every business in Oregon should have received a generic letter from the Oregon Department of Revenue alerting you to this new tax. This letter is a helpful primer on the CAT tax, but is not incredibly useful in figuring out the impact on your business’ specific situation. As is usual with all tax law, the devil is in the details. How did the Corporate Activity Tax come about? In May 2019, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 3427. In this bill, it established the CAT tax as the primary mechanism to fund the new Fund for Student Success. Then in June 2019, the Legislature passed HB 2164 which provided technical corrections to HB 3427. As a follow up, the Department of Revenue did informational and listening sessions around the state through the last half of 2019. On December 9, 2019, the Department of Revenue issued 8 draft rules about this new tax, and intend to release additional temporary guidance through March 2020. Any time there is a new tax put in place, there is much ambiguity, and so as a tax practitioner, we appreciate any guidance that is issued, especially since the effective date is January 1, 2020 and the first estimated tax payment is due April 30, 2020 (more on that later). Who is subject to the CAT tax? That tax is imposed upon taxpayers with a trade or business and “substantial nexus” in Oregon, who also meet certain specific thresholds. We’ll drill down on some of the definitions, but here is a quick threshold listing: • Any business with Oregon “commercial activity” in excess of $750,000 will need to register, • Any business with Oregon “commercial activity” in excess of $1,000,000 will need to file, and • Any business with Oregon TAXABLE “commercial activity” in excess of $1,000,000 will need to pay the CAT tax. How much is the CAT tax? It is 0.57% of your Oregon TAXABLE commercial activity in excess of $1,000,000 plus $250. If you do not have Oregon taxable commercial activity in excess of $1,000,000, then you will not owe any tax, including the $250 minimum tax. What is “substantial nexus”? HB 3427 states that a business has substantial nexus if it: • Owns or uses a part or all of its capital in this state, • Holds a certificate of existence or authorization issued by the Secretary of State’s office, • Has a “bright line presence” in Oregon, defined as: o Owns property in Oregon with an aggregate value of at least $50,000, or o Has Oregon payroll of at least $50,000, or o Has commercial activity in the state of at least $750,000, or o At least 25% of the total property, payroll or commercial activity is in Oregon, or o Is a resident or domiciled in Oregon for commercial, corporate
or other business purposes. What is “Commercial Activity”? By now, you realize that HB 3427 has established many new terms that require definitions. Fortunately, the law also gave us some definitions that will add partial clarity. The definition of Commercial Activity is the total amount realized by a subject taxpayer, arising from transactions and activity in the regular course of the taxpayer’s trade or business, without deduction for expenses incurred by the trade or business. For the most part, many businesses will think of this as their gross sales. For the most part, that is a true statement. However, then HB 3427, as well as HB 2164, list 47 exceptions. They fall in to two categories: • “Excluded persons” like non-profits and some health care providers, for example. There are many others. • “Gross receipt exemptions” like non-trade interest income, excise taxes collected from customers, or wages received as an employee, for example. There are many others. Just when we think that Oregon doesn’t have a sales or use tax, HB 3427 introduces a “use tax” concept which is odd to Oregon businesses. If a business purchased equipment/property out of state, then brings it in to Oregon within one year of purchase, the value of the property is included in “commercial activity” unless the buyer can show that it wasn’t purchased out of state to avoid the CAT tax. This now requires the taxpayer and the state of Oregon to consider an Oregon business’ motivation in purchasing equipment/ property from out of state suppliers and puts the CAT tax burden of the “gross receipts” tax on the buyer rather than the seller for this transaction. What is Oregon Taxable Commercial Activity Income? We have discussed what “commercial activity” is, but not what the Oregon taxable commercial activity is. The CAT tax is only assessed against the Oregon taxable commercial activity. It is broken down as follows: Commercial activity apportioned to Oregon minus 35% of the greater of • Oregon cost inputs (as defined by the Internal Revenue Code Sec 471) or • Oregon labor costs • Note: This subtraction is limited to 95% of the Oregon commercial activity What this means is that of the included commercial activity, only Oregon commercial activity is included. Non-Oregon activity is excluded. From there, a taxpayer can subtract out 35% of certain costs that are apportioned or sourced to Oregon.
Katie Eyre, CPA, Tax Partner Fordham & Co, LLP – Certified Public Accountants
What if a taxpayer has more than one business? The Oregon CAT tax requires a taxpayer to look at their businesses as a “unitary business” rather than separate businesses. This concept was designed for the situation where on a separate business basis, some of the businesses would not be subject to the CAT tax. But if aggregated into a unitary business, then they would meet the thresholds and therefore be subject to the CAT tax. A unitary business must file their CAT tax returns on a unitary basis, even though they are separate taxpayers for other purposes. This is one of the most complicated areas of the new law. The draft rules provide the general rule that “if the activities of one business either contribute to the activities of another business, or are dependent upon the activities of another business, those businesses are part of a unitary business.” HB 3427 also discusses common ownership, centralized management, common executive force, etc. What are some of the administration aspects of the CAT tax? The Department of Revenue is still working out some kinks, but here in a nutshell is what we know to date: • The effect start date is January 1, 2020. • All CAT tax filings must be done on a calendar year basis, regardless of any fiscal year end for the taxpayer. • A taxpayer must register if their commercial activity is at least $750,000. (If not previously required to register, the taxpayer must register within 30 days of reaching the $750,000 threshold or face per month penalties). • Estimated taxes are required to be paid quarterly if the CAT will be greater than $5,000 for the year. o Due April 30, July 31, October 31 and January 31 for the previous quarter.
o Note the first quarterly estimated payment will be due April 30, 2020. o All estimated tax payments must be paid electronically. • The annual tax return is due April 15 of the following year. o Note the first annual return filing will not be due until April 15, 2021 for the 2020 tax year. o A 6 month filing extension may be granted only for “good cause”. Extensions do not appear to be automatically granted. • Unitary groups must file as a single taxpayer. Each member will be jointly and severally liable for the filing and payment of the estimated taxes and the annual filing and taxes. What can a business do now? This is just a general discussion of the new CAT tax and should not be relied upon for your unique situation. Because this is a new and complex tax, both the Oregon Department of Revenue and your tax advisors are trying to understand as much as possible. The information is still evolving. Any Oregon business should consult with their tax advisor immediately so that they can understand how this new tax will impact their specific business. If subject to the tax, you will need to budget for it and be prepared to register, as well as the filing and paying of quarterly estimated tax. If you have a financial review or audit, talk with your certified public accountant to find out if it should be included in your tax provision analysis. And because of the definition of “cost inputs” for subtractions, you may want to talk with your tax advisor to see if you can enhance what is currently put into your cost of goods sold. In addition to discussing with your tax advisor, you can find more information online at: Oregon.gov/DOR/programs/businesses/pages/corporate-activitytax.aspx
sunday
DECEMBER 29
MONDAY
DECEMBER 30
TUESDAY
DECEMBER 31
WEDNESDAY
JANUARY 1
THURSDAY
JANUARY 2
New Year’s Day Hillsboro Chamber Closed
JANUARY 5
JANUARY 12
JANUARY 6
JANUARY 13
JANUARY 7
JANUARY 14
JANUARY 8
4:00pm–5:00pm Chamber 101: Making The Most Of Your Investment @Hillsboro Chamber
JANUARY 15
JANUARY 9
4:30pm–6:00pm 2020 Legislative Delegation Reception @Hillsboro Chamber
JANUARY 16
8:00am-9:00am Finance Committee @Hillsboro Chamber
JANUARY 19
JANUARY 20
3:00pm-4:30pm SBEC @HillHub
JANUARY 21
9:00am-10:00am Executive Committee @Hillsboro Chamber
JANUARY 22
4:00pm–5:30pm HillHub Unwind @HillHub
JANUARY 23
11:30am-1:00pm Professional Women’s Association (PWA) @Larkspur Landing Home Suite Hotel 3133 NE Shute Rd Hillsboro, OR 97124
JANUARY 26
JANUARY 27
7:30am-8:45am Noon-1:00pm Developers’/Real Estate Round Table Public Policy Committee @Hillsboro Chamber @Hillsboro Chamber
JANUARY 28
JANUARY 29
4:00pm–5:30pm HillHub Unwind @HillHub
JANUARY 30
7:30am-9:00am Chamber Board Meeting @Hillsboro Chamber Noon-1:00pm Chamber Ambassador Meeting @Hillsboro Chamber
4:00pm–5:30pm HillHub Unwind @HillHub
FRIDAY
JANUARY 3
SATURDAY
JANUARY 4
Bakery
Save The Date 2020Legislative Delegation Reception on Main Street
8:00am-9:00am WakeUp! Hillsboro @Hillsboro Dentist Office 2247 SE Tualatin Valley Hwy Hillsboro, OR 97123
JANUARY 10
JANUARY 11
JANUARY 9, 2020 4:30PM - 6:00PM
HILLSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
8:00am–9:00am WakeUp! Hillsboro @Holiday Inn Express 5900 NE Ray Circle Hillsboro, OR 97124
JANUARY 17
8:00am–9:00am WakeUp! Hillsboro @Evergreens Salad 1237 NE 48th Ave Hillsboro, OR 97124
JANUARY 24
8:00am–9:00am WakeUp! Hillsboro @Therapeutic Associates Hillsboro Physical Therapy 5920 NE Ray Cir, #160 Hillsboro, OR 97124
JANUARY 31
8:00am–9:00am WakeUp! Hillsboro Ribbon Cutting @Briar Rose School 1038 E Main St Hillsboro, OR 97123
JANUARY 18
JANUARY 25
FEBRUARY 1
HILLHUB H I L L S B O R O ’ S S TA R T U P C O M M U N I T Y
NEW HILLHUB WEBSITE Visit HILLHUB-OR.COM to see our new Events Calendar, Sponsors and Office Hours pages!
Exclusive IT Provider to the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce Since 2005
Building Trusted IT Relationships Since 1997
SCHOOL TO CAREER COUNSELING CAREER ACADEMY
In the month of December, School to Career added an Experiential Learning Opportunity for high school seniors interested in the fields of Psychiatry, Counseling and Social Work. There are always many students interested in these areas, but it has been difficult to find placements for them due to the often confidential nature of the interactions with clients. School to Career staff worked together to create a
broad view of these helping professions. Students were given the opportunity to learn from volunteers who work in forensic psychology, school psychology, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency, and mental illness. Professionals talked about their practice and treatment methodologies including a specialist in Horticulture and Music Therapy. The group also went on a field trip to visit Forward Stride Equine Facilitated Ps y c h o t h e r a p y. Students were able to observe and experience the way that licensed mental health practitioners work together with equine specialists to provide therapy for clients.
SAVE THE DATE
2020 Hillsboro Legislative Delegation Reception Thursday, January 9th | 4:30-6 p.m. | Hillsboro Chamber The Hillsboro Chamber’s Public Policy Committee will host a reception for Legislators prior to the 2020 Legislative Session. The Hillsboro Chamber will deliver its 2020 Legislative Agenda to Legislators and discuss the upcoming session and how the business community can stay engaged with elected officials and provide input and feedback to the process. This is a great opportunity for the Chamber to share priorities and policy positions. Confirmed to attend: Representative Janeen Sollman, Representative Courtney Neron, Representative Ron Noble and Representative Susan McLain. Reservations are required and space is limited.
Representative Courtney Neron Sponsored by
Representative Ron Noble
Representative Susan McLain
Representative Janeen Sollman
This year marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage and the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting a women’s constitutional right to vote.
Women Blazing Trails Thursday, March 05, 2020 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM PST Embassy Suites Hotel 9355 NE Tanasbourne Dr Hillsboro, OR 97124
This historic centennial offers a unique opportunity to celebrate a milestone of democracy and explore the relevance of the issues of equal rights today. The event will feature the speakers with an opportunity to build connections and share experiences on ways to "Blaze the Trails" in the women’s equality movement.
Sea�ng Availability Is Limited. Registra�on Required. $35 per person
$25 per person purchase by 2/20/20 for early bird pricing
HON. BARBARA ROBERTS
Governor Barbara Roberts was elected the first woman Governor of the state of Oregon in 1990, serving from 1991 through 1995. During her term as Governor, Roberts worked with the Clinton administra�on to secure federal waivers and funding for the Oregon Health Plan. She also helped to increase the number of children in the Head Start program, secured financing for addi�onal units of affordable housing, and developed programs to help move Oregonians from welfare to the workplace. Prior to her tenure as Governor, Barbara Roberts was a member of the Oregon House and was Oregon's first female House Majority Leader from 1983 to 1984. She was elected Secretary of State in 1984 (the first Democrat elected in 100 years) and re-elected to that posi�on in 1988. Roberts served in many capaci�es in the Ha�ield School of Government at PSU, and was the founding board chair of the Center for Women's Leadership.
HILLHUB MEMBER SPOTLIGHT VR Motion has created software for the $21 billion transportation training and driver education markets using off-the-shelf Virtual Reality hardware. They enable enterprise clients like transportation and delivery fleets, law enforcement, military and driving schools to reduce risks and save money on their training costs. Training drivers is critical to ensure driver competency, safety, and to protect equipment. Traditional simulation systems used for driver training are typically expensive and proprietary, and complex to support and maintain. Real-world training cannot quickly expose drivers to the wide breadth of environmental conditions they may encounter, including rough terrain, low visibility, and inclement, unpredictable weather. VR Motion brings long-standing expertise in training novice, professional, and military drivers to meet their unique needs. With VR Motion systems, drivers can improve their skills, decrease the chance of accidents, and increase situational awareness. The simulation system helps to build essential muscle memory in a controlled learning environment with zero risks. Drivers can quickly become more coordinated, comfortable, and confident in a totally
immersive virtual environment. The two co-founders, Keith Maher and Dominic Dobson, and our CTO, Matt Plavcan, have over 40 years of combined experience at Intel, professional auto racing, and augmented reality. The highly skilled team has developed numerous products and IP. They have a unique combination of experience in the technology and automotive industries. Maher and Dobson both call Hillsboro home and find the climate for finding talent and business relationships in Hillsboro to be exceptional. They are thrilled to be one of the newest members of HillHub!
Leadership Business and Industry Day is always
such a treat for the class. After a morning spent learning more about Decadent Creations and Insomnia Coffee and Dapper & Wise Coffee Roasters, the class took a short trip to visit Lithtex Printing and Beaverton Foods. We have such amazing business stories here in Hillsboro and it’s always a great day to get to visit and hear from some of our cool business owners!
Recognizing Excellence In Education
2020 CRYSTAL APPLE AWARDS In conjunction with American Education Week, the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce began accepting nominations beginning Monday, November 12th for those who go above and beyond to make education a great experience in Hillsboro. Nominations are reviewed in three categories: licensed staff, administration, and support staff.
April will mark the Hillsboro Chamber’s 15th Annual Crystal Apple Awards to honor excellence in education! This celebration recognizes outstanding leaders in Hillsboro’s public and private K-12 schools who help grow the workforce of tomorrow.
This is a great way for businesses to connect with the schools and to support educational excellence in Hillsboro! Every staff member who is nominated will be recognized at their school or workplace with a special, personal ceremony. Recipients of the awards will be announced at the Crystal Apple Celebration Dinner on Thursday, April 9, 2020. Nominations will be accepted until Wednesday, January 29th. However, community members are encouraged to submit early, as only the first 50 nominations will be accepted. To make a nomination visit hillsborochamberor. com/crystalapplenom/.
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 80 Years Portland General Electric
16 Years SpringHill Suites by Marriott
4 Years Chick fil A Tanasbourne
78 Years Peterson, Peterson, Walchli & Roberson LLP
15 Years Griffiths, Dennis
41 Years Peterson, Peterson, Walchli & Roberson LLP
14 Years Arbonne International Crystal King
38 Years Sheets, Arden
13 Years Meals on Wheels People Hillsboro Center Pacific University Health Professions Campus
3 Years ABA Auto Repair Specialties Bridge To Health Chiropractic LLC Kozy Kids Enrichment Center LLC Movement Mortgage LLC Northwest Hillsboro Alliance Steve Callaway
29 Years Banner Furniture Outlet Travel Portland 28 Years Lithtex Printing 27 Years Northwest Natural Pacific University 26 Years Krahmer, Gary 24 Years Rosewood Park Retirement and Assisted Living Residence 22 Years DeMarini Sports Qorvo 18 Years Whole Brain Creative, Inc.
11 Years Better Business Bureau Northwest Beyond Uniforms & Apparel SCORE Portland 10 Years FG Insurance, Inc 8 Years Golden Valley Brewery PARR Lumber Company 6 Years BESThq Electronic Manufacturers Association Harris Velรกzquez Gibbens, Attorneys at Law Tessera Apartments 5 Years Copper River Restaurant & Bar Embassy Suites Hotel Hillsboro Rychart Excavation, Inc.
2 Years Community Lending Works Edward Jones Sarah Heesacker Edwards Vacuum Hillsboro Soccer Club LaborWorks Industrial Staffing Inc. Legacy Health New World Industries PuroClean Restoration U.S. Army Recruiting Station U Haul Moving & Storage of Hillsboro 1 Year Acorn Dentistry for Kids Hillsboro Hughes, Tom Ma Now Thai Cuisine New York Life Judie Robinson Royalty Trips LLC Salam Restaurant Swipenow Trail Blazing Corp.
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 4 Core Yoga & Wellness Phone: (503) 348 6113 6701 NE Campus Way Hillsboro, OR 97124
F45 Training Tanasbourne Phone: (503) 987 0365 2219 NE Allie Ave. Ste. 1460 Hillsboro, OR 97124
Rhonda Isakson, LMT Phone: (503) 962 0461 5193 NE Elam Young Pkwy Ste. D Hillsboro, OR 97124
Active Recovery TMS Phone: (503) 765 5208 5920 NE Ray Circle Ste. 170 Hillsboro, OR 97124
Hillsboro Food Co op Phone: (971) 205 2374 168 NE 8th Ave. Hillsboro, OR 97124
Tipping the Scales Vegan Bakery Phone: (971) 207 6884 Forest Grove, OR 97116
Camp Bow Wow Hillsboro Phone: (971) 770 3647 2900 SE Cornelius Pass Rd. Ste. 218 Hillsboro, OR 97123
On Q Financial Phone: (503) 969 9929 10300 SW Greenburg Rd. #465 Portland, OR 97223
Zyia Active Phone: (503) 320 1184 Hillsboro, OR 97124
LATINX BUSINESS COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS This month we recognized our Latinx Leading Investors for their
continuous support throughout 2019. This year marked a significant milestone for us here at the chamber as we worked with much intentionality to deliver services and support to the Latinx business community of Hillsboro and Washington County. The work would not have been possible without the support of El Chino Taqueria & Seafood, La Imperial Bakery, M&M Marketplace and Molina Insurance Group. We look forward to 2020 as they come back as chamber members or Latinx Leading Investors for a second year. Looking at 2020… We will commence a series of workshops in January 2020 to support the Latinx business community. Karla Langlois-Cruz, Senior Tax Accountant with Cruz & Associates NW will give a series of business finance workshops. The first series topic set to start on 1.23.2020 will go over Tax Strategies to Reduce Liability & Prevent Audits for Small Businesses. The workshops will be free to members/non-members $15 per workshop. Spanish Workshops.
We hope all of Hillsboro’s professional women will make plans to join us for Professional Women’s Alliance on Thursday, January 23.
Professional Thursday, January 23rd 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Larkspur Landing Hotel 3133 NE Shute Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124 Guest Speaker: Deb Dougal Members: $15 Perspective Members: $25
Our guest speaker is Deb Dougal. Deb is a speaker and Certified High Performance Coach™, founder of Vibrant Life Strategies, and creator of the Vibrant Life Experience. She integrates the latest neuroscience with timeless common sense principles. Deb loves to help her clients clear their individual roadblocks to a life of joy, health, confidence and contribution. Experience High Performance Achievement with Greater Ease, Vibrant Energy, & Stronger Relationships You don’t want to miss this event. Register online now!
CHAMBER MEMBER INVOLVEMENT
The Hillsboro Chamber has many active committees and task forces working on a variety of issues that assist in the implementation of our mission. As a member of the Chamber, Committee involvement is an ideal way to share your expertise or learn more about specific topics and areas of interest. Committee meetings are open to all Chamber members.
Fostering a Vibrant Economy
• Developer and Real Estate Roundtable - an opportunity for developers and those involved in local real estate to share information regarding current projects, resources and issues. • Manufacturer’s Round Table - supports the local manufacturing industry through business engagement and networking opportunities. (Participation limited to local manufacturers)
• Leadership Hillsboro-The Leadership Hillsboro program is designed to put the participants in contact with numerous leaders; to build an increasing awareness of the functioning of the community and instill a heightened personal commitment to become involved in leadership capacities in Hillsboro.
Representing Business Interests to Government • Latino Business Advisory Council - represents small Latino businesses in the greater Hillsboro area as an advisory committee through outreach, education, marketing, and advocacy. LBAC is a leadership body made of Latino businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders who are committed to providing exceptional resources to Latino businesses in order to promote the benefits of Hillsboro’s diverse culture and economy. • Small Business Entrepreneurs Council (SBEC) - serves as a voice of small businesses in the greater Hillsboro area. The SBEC is an advisory committee to the Chamber’s leadership and the Mayor of the City of Hillsboro. The SBEC provides educational, advocacy and economic development connections tailored to the needs of small business owners and managers.
• School to Career - School to Career-promotes and develops awareness of the workplace and workforce needs. Your participation results in positively impacting the life of local high school students by providing critical career information by which students can make educated decisions regarding their futures.
• Public Policy Committee - makes recommendations to the Hillsboro Chamber Board of Directors regarding ballot measures, legislative initiatives and resolutions. Council members are appointed by the Chamber Board. Meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11:30am to 1:00pm.
Developing Relevant Business Education Providing Networking Opportunities
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• Ambassador Committee - promotes the Hillsboro Chamber at key events throughout the year. Business meetings are held the last Tuesday of the month from Noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Chamber. Each Friday at 8:00 a.m. Ambassadors visit various business location to participate in the Chamber’s weekly “Wake Up! Hillsboro” networking function. • Business Walk - The Chamber is seeking 60 community/business volunteers to obtain feedback from 150+ interviewee businesses on their operations and success in Hillsboro. Members can register online to be a volunteer interviewer or interviewee. Interviewers enjoy breakfast, lunch and a half day of learning and bonding with other businesses & community leaders. Interviewees remain at their sites between 10am-noon to provide feedback for 10 minutes that is used in the Chamber’s annual report and to provide needed business programs.
SIGNATURE EVENTS 2020
Save the date!
March 5 - A Centennial Celebration This year marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage and the passage of the 19th amendment, guaranteeing and protecting a women’s constitutional right to vote. This historic centennial offers a unique opportunity to celebrate a milestone of democracy and explore the relevance of the issues of equal rights today. The Hillsboro Chamber will bring together a forum of women leaders to collaborate and mentor emerging women leaders. The event will feature inspiring speakers with an opportunity to build connections and share experiences on ways to lead in women’s equality movement.
May 17 Latino Cultural Festival The 16th Annual Hillsboro Chamber Latino Cultural Festival provides a culturally appropriate venue for sharing information and building community connections while offering businesses and non-profits the chance to showcase their services to more than 10,000 attendees. The celebration kicks off with a parade featuring Hillsboro elementary students, dancers and musicians. Attendees will enjoy entertainment on two stages, featuring both renowned performers and showcasing local youth talent, while a variety of food vendors serve up delicious Latino cuisine. The event includes cultural entertainment, an art village, and a competitive futsal tournament for more than 200 players. September 11 - Golf Scramble --------The Hillsboro Chamber’s 17th Annual Golf Scramble is the perfect setting to build business awareness between you and 144 players, business leaders, and sponsors associated with this event. There is no better way to spend a Friday afternoon than out at this award-winning golf course with business friends and clients, making connections and promoting your business. September 30 - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit This year we are excited to launch the Hillsboro Chamber’s inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Summit. Join us at this half-day Summit to learn and hear how the business community and organizations are leading and implementing changes in the work of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within our business community and the community at large. The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit brings together leaders in the civic, education, financial, governmental, health, corporate and legal communities to discuss where we are on the path to complete inclusion. More importantly, learn what strategies have created outcomes that have resulted in positive momentum towards a reality of equality and access for all. The Summit will be filled with challenges, connections, encouragement and inspiration presenting forward-thinking initiatives that encourage awareness and open, honest and courageous dialogue for all attendees. Come ready to learn and enrich your life and business by attending this unique opportunity to hone in your skills as an authentic, purposeful, intentional DEI leader.
Learn More About Leading Investor Opportunities & Chamber Signature Events By Contacting Deanna Palm at DeannaP@HillChamber.org
April 9 - Crystal Apple Awards ------------The 15th Annual Crystal Apple Awards Dinner recognizes excellence in education by soliciting nominations from the community and presenting awards to licensed staff, administrators and support staff in the Hillsboro School District. This event is an exclusive way for the Hillsboro business community to recognize educators who excel at engaging and motivating our future workforce. It is attended by more than 250 business and education professionals and features a keynote speaker. May 28 - Hillsboro Awards Gala -----------------The Hillsboro Awards Gala is the Chamber’s opportunity to recognize businesses, individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to the greater Hillsboro area. The event features entertainment by local high school students as well as the presentation of signature awards to community members. This event exemplifies the spirit of Hillsboro and salutes businesses and individuals in the community who strive to achieve excellence in all they do. August 14 - Hillsboro Farm Fresh ---The Hillsboro Chamber is celebrating its agricultural roots with our 7th annual farmto-fork style dinner. This outdoor dinner will showcase local farm fresh ingredients planned and prepared by a guest chef and expertly paired with regional wines all served family-style, out on a local farm. Our 2019 champions will return to defend their titles in the Dueling Cocktail competition! Sponsors will again go head-to-head with cocktails created and named for their company with guests voting to determine the winners. Champions will receive a trophy to display at their business and the opportunity to return the following year! October 22 - Manufacturer’s Symposium --------The Hillsboro Chamber Manufacturers’ Symposium is a celebration of the Hillsboro/ Beaverton manufacturing industry. Regional businesses that support manufacturing will convene in the anniversary month of the Chamber’s first Manufacturers Roundtable for lunch to learn from a panel of companies that represent critical stages in product development, manufacturing, and trade. The Manufacturers’ Symposium will be a wonderful opportunity for manufacturers to engage businesses that support the manufacturing field and will include engineers, construction, distributors, shipping & freight, export professionals, and all areas of manufacturing. November 12 - Green Business Symposium ---The Hillsboro Chamber Green Business Symposium is a forum to present, discuss, and learn about eco-friendly, sustainable business practices in Washington County and learn how changes to the global recycling market are affecting Oregon businesses and households. This event is a platform for regional speakers to share innovative practices and showcase a panel of experts for attendees to learn from. Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling will educate business owners on how to become a Green Business Leader and will recognize 2019 Green Business Award winners.
CELEBRATE. COLLABORATE. CONNECT.