Business Connection
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Bonnie Delaney CEO
Exciting Changes to Business After Hours Coming in 2025!
e are thrilled to announce some exciting updates to our Business After Hours program for 2025, designed to make networking even more convenient and rewarding! Starting in January, attendees will have two flexible options to choose from, making it easier than ever to participate in this must-attend monthly event.
New Pricing Options
1. Annual Pass – For just $135, you can secure entry to all 12 Business After Hours events for the year, including our always-popular Holiday Party in December! As an added bonus, those who purchase the annual pass will receive a custom punch card, guaranteeing you a spot at each event. With this flat fee, you'll never have to worry about missing out or scrambling for lastminute registration.
2. Pay-as-You-Go – Prefer a more flexible option? No problem! Pay just $10 at the door for each event from January thru November, and $40 for the Holiday Party.
Bonnie Delaney
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Why Choose the Annual Pass?
• Ease of Access: With your punch card in hand, you'll have guaranteed entry for the entire year.
• Cost Savings: Enjoy significant savings by paying upfront.
• Convenience: Skip the hassle of budgeting each month or remembering to RSVP.
Network, Collaborate, Celebrate
Whether you're a seasoned Business After Hours attendee or new to the event, 2025 is shaping up to be the best year yet! Don’t miss this opportunity to meet local professionals, foster valuable connections, and grow your network—all while enjoying refreshments and a relaxed atmosphere.
Secure your Annual Pass today and ensure your part of every exciting moment next year. Let’s make 2025 a year of connection and opportunity!
Hosting Businesses
You will see a change in the cost from $1000 down to $750. If you have expressed interest in hosting Business After Hours in 2026, I will be reaching out to you verify the month you selected to host.
meadowlark club
Includes: 2 cleanings per year, 2 annual exams and x-rays for $350 - A $1200 value Plus, 20% off all services including crowns and implants.
Our January business after hours will be hosted by Proust Marketing, which is formally known as Carter Venture Solutions. For those that haven’t been to Josh’s location, he’s got some super cool marketing / media related things going on. It should be a fun night, January 13, 2026.
You can register for business after hours at www. kelsolongviewchamber.org where you can select the January BAH or the year long discounted program. We are limited on the year long pass, so get them while you can.
Board of Directors
Jason Gentemann President Foster Farms
Sean Kiffe President Elect NORPAC
Pam Whittle Vice President Realty One Group Pacifica
Jason Meunier Treasurer Fibre Federal Credit Union
Michael Claxton Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching
Marlene Johanson Past President Heritage Bank
Rich Coleman Bicoastal Media
Diane Craft Koelsch Communities
Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD
Michelle Domenico St. John/PeaceHealth
Bill Fogarty Twin City Bank
Kristin Gaines Alcoa
Kelly Godden Specialty Rents
Rich Gushman Gibbs & Olson
Keenan Harvey City Council, Kelso
John Paul KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The Blitz
Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council
MaryAlice Wallis City of Longview
Dennis Weber Commissioner Cowlitz County
ABUNCO
Longview Eagles
1526 12th Ave Longview, WA 98632
On Friday, November 22, Lower Columbia Professionals (LCP) hosted their highly anticipated annual BUNCO event at the Longview Eagles. The event was a lively and enjoyable evening, with participants coming together to enjoy a friendly game of BUNCO while socializing with fellow community members. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and spirited competition, ensuring that everyone had a great time. In addition to the fun, the event served an important purpose, as it raised vital funds for LCP’s scholarship fund, which helps support local students in their educational pursuits.
The success of the evening not only brought joy to those who attended but also made a positive impact on the future of aspiring students in the community. It was truly a memorable event, with a strong sense of community spirit and generosity.
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January 24 & 25
The Sasqualogist
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2025 sQuatch Speakers
2:00
2:30
4:45
2:30
EVENT SCHEDULE
EVENT SCHEDULE
EVENT SCHEDULE
AM Event Opens - Vendors Open in St Helens & Breakout Rooms
Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit
6:45 PM 3rd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit
4:45 PM 2nd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit
2:30 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
AM Kathy Strain Loowit 11:30 AM Matt Pruitt Loowit 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch Break Loowit 1:30 PM Tyler Bounds Loowit 3:00 PM Amy Bue Loowit 4:30 PM Ken Gerhard
2:30
3:30 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
6:45 PM 3rd Movie Showing w/ Dinner & Drinks Option Followed by Q&A w/ Joseph Granda- Movie Loowit
5:00 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
2:30 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
3:30 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
5:00
6:00 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
3:30 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
7:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral
6:00
5:00
PM – 6:00 PM Dinner Break 6:30 PM Cliff Barackman Loowit 9:30 AM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral
8:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Craig Yahne Floral Event Over
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6:00
8:15
7:00
9:00
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AM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project Floral 12:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral 1:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Craig Yahne Floral 3:00 PM Tech Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project
4:00 PM Footprint Class - Shane Corson from the Olympic Project
5:00 PM Townhall Story Sharing - Craig Yahne Floral
6:15 PM sQuatch Calling Competition - Led by Craig Yahne Floral Event Over
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Kristin Stafford Accounting Manager
Supporting Local Students: How Your Membership Makes a Difference
At the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce, this is our busiest season, and we’re hard at work raising sponsorship dollars for events and scholarship funds for our Education Foundation. You may have noticed a voluntary scholarship fee of $25.00 on your membership invoice. Let’s talk about the incredible impact this small donation makes.
Where Your $25.00 Goes
Every $25.00 donation is directed to the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation, which provides scholarships for future college and university students in our community. This funding is critical to empowering local youth to pursue higher education and achieve their goals.
Key Highlights About Your Contribution
• Significant Impact: Your $25.00 donations collectively contribute to thousands of dollars in scholarships annually. These funds play a major role in making education accessible for many students.
• Annual Request: This voluntary fee is requested only once a year, ensuring that supporting this cause remains simple and manageable.
• Parent Membership Only: For businesses with multiple locations, the fee is applied only to the parent membership, keeping contributions fair and streamlined.
Your Generosity Matters
We hope this gives you a better understanding of what this fee is and why it’s so important. Your contributions are not just a line item on an invoice—they are an investment in the future of our community. Every dollar helps empower students to achieve their dreams and build brighter futures for themselves and for all of us.
We couldn’t achieve this level of impact without the support of our members. Your contributions directly support the future workforce and leaders of our community, making a lasting difference.
Legislative Luncheon
19th & 20th District
Delegation
December 16, 2024
11:30 AM - 1 PM
Mill City Grill
1260 Commerce, Longview
The
(R - 20th LD)
Rep. Peter Abbarno (R - 20th LD) (R - 19th LD)
Rep. Joel McEntire (R - 19th LD) (R - 19th LD)
Longview Public Schools
Dr. Karen Cloninger Superintendent
Longview Public Schools: A Strong Start and Exciting Winter Ahead
As we reach the halfway point of the school year, Longview Public Schools is reflecting on a successful start to the 202425 academic year. With smooth transitions, positive student experiences, and numerous events filling the calendar, it’s been an exciting and busy season. Now, as winter approaches, there is much to look forward to, both in and out of the classroom.
As a new member to the community, I can’t help but think how fortunate our students are for the local support the Longview community has provided them. From sports to the fine arts, there is always something going on in schools from season to season, thanks to the generous support of this community.
This fall, the district focused on ensuring that students were ready to learn, and it showed. Teachers and staff worked hard to create welcoming environments that promoted academic success and emotional well-being allowing our students to find their rhythm quickly.
Fall sports have ended, with Longview’s athletes showing great dedication and sportsmanship throughout the season. From football to cross-country, volleyball to soccer, our students displayed incredible talent and teamwork, creating lasting memories and building school spirit.
Now, as we transition into the colder months, the focus shifts to winter sports. Basketball, wrestling, bowling, and swimming are gearing up. On December 13th the gymnasium at Mark Morris
High School will be named the Bill Bakamus Gymnasium in a special dedication ceremony that will take place during the Mark Morris vs. Kelso game.
As we enter the winter months, the performing arts calendar is in full swing. Winter concerts are already underway, showcasing the musical talents of students from all grade levels. From choir performances to band and orchestra concerts, the arts continue to be a vital part of the Longview educational experience. These programs, like sports, are largely funded by local levy dollars. These concerts provide a great opportunity for the community to support our talented students and celebrate the importance of the arts in shaping well-rounded individuals.
In addition to all the exciting events and activities, Longview Public Schools has seen some leadership changes this November. Board Member Don Cox resigned after three years of service, and the board welcomed Deborah Pineda as a new member. Pineda was a Mark Morris graduate and her own children have gone through Longview schools. She was a former Longview police officer who worked as a school resource officer at R.A. Long High School. The board looks forward to her unique perspectives and working alongside her to guide the district’s future.
Finally, this December, I will be detailing my entry plan. After months of immersing myself in the district, our schools and community, I will be introducing my findings. I look forward to unveiling this information in a future column.
Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments
Bill Fashing Executive Director
New resources available to aid Latine construction companies
Latine-owned and operated construction companies and entrepreneurs in Southwest Washington now have access to additional resources to help support and grow their businesses, through a new partnership between Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) and LatinoBuilt.
WSW, a nonprofit and the local workforce development board, is investing Department of Commerce Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) funds into several new initiatives and launching new programs and services through WorkSource and other partners. The goals of CRP are to uplift communities disproportionately
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harmed by the war on drugs and create lasting economic benefits, build wealth and ensure everyone has a fair chance at success.
WSW’s new partnership will enable LatinoBuilt to expand its services into Cowlitz, Wahkiakum and Clark counties to serve Latino construction companies and entrepreneurs through bilingual professional development classes in Contract Management, Estimating & Bidding, and Safety.
WSW’s Director of Business Services, Darcy Hoffman commented on the new partnership, “Our region is incredibly fortunate to have LatinoBuilt here to serve the Latine construction community! Our region is experiencing major investments in infrastructure, and this is one way we can ensure the Latine community in Southwest Washington benefits from these investments.”
LatinoBuilt is a nonprofit dedicated to aiding and empowering Latine construction contractors with bilingual support, mentorship and training to build a more equitable future, eliminate inequities and expand opportunities in the construction industry for Latine and other underrepresented groups.
“Advancing business opportunities and reducing barriers in construction is core to LatinoBuilt’s mission, and we are excited to advance businesses in partnership with Workforce Southwest Washington,” shared LatinoBuilt’s interim executive director Rosa Martinez.
LatinoBuilt began offering classes in Southwest Washington in October. Cowlitz County Latino contractors are invited to sign up
for these free classes. Details are available online at Events from October 24 – November 12 – LatinoBuilt.
To learn more about how your business can participate in LatinoBuilt training visit www.latinobuilt.org or contact Dulce Perkins at dulce@ latinobuilt.org or 503-889-0511.
To further assist small businesses and communities disproportionately harmed by the war on drugs, WSW has also launched a new partnership with Business Impact NW to expand Business Impact NW’s services into Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties to provide oneon-one, in-depth business advice, lending, and technical assistance services to small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow businesses that create jobs in rural communities. For information contact Domonique Juleon at domoniqueJ@BusinessImpactNW.org.
The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) partners with organizations across the state to support economic development, reentry services, legal assistance, and violence prevention. In collaboration with community partners, CRP’s impact includes creating jobs in partnership with diverse small businesses and offering training programs to meet workforce needs.
Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) leads the regional workforce development system in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum and Clark counties. WSW invests in workforce programs and services in collaboration with local partners to equip youth and adults for employment, career advancement, and self-sufficiency. WSW aids in business growth by funding and collaborating with high-quality companies to help with recruitment, training, and retention of employees. Learn more at www.workforcesw.org.
Kelso
Lindsey Cope President
From Pumpkins to Lights: Kelso’s Festive Season in Full Swing
The holiday season is here, and there’s no better time to celebrate all the wonderful things happening in and around Kelso! Here's a look at what the Kelso Business and Community Association has been up to as well as some holiday fun coming in December.
Pumpkins, Smiles, and Spring Blooms!
In October, we gave away 100 pumpkins at the KBCA Kids Pumpkin Giveaway. We'd like to give an extra special shout out to Grocery Outlet and Copies Today for helping making this happen. The joy on those kids’ faces was priceless! And speaking of Halloween, join us in thanking the organizers of the South Kelso Spooktacular. It was fun to see the great turnout and participation.
A huge shoutout to our 2024 Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt sponsors, as the funds raised made the pumpkin giveaway possible (see below for a list of all who made this possible).
The proceeds from the 2024 Shamrock Shuffle also helped us refresh 50 flower planters around town. While the planters are resting now, just wait until spring – you'll see gorgeous daffodils, tulips, anemones, and more!
Cheers to New Beginnings!
Congratulations to all involved in the newly opened Small Business Development Center now located at Lower Columbia College! Their recent ribbon-cutting marks an exciting milestone for our community, offering expanded support for local entrepreneurs.
Mark Your December Calendars!
Kelso is bringing the holiday magic with these fun events:
Kelso Tree Lighting Festival - Vintage Christmas
Friday, December 6 | 6–8 PM
Kelso City Hall
Kick off the season with the tree lighting at 6:10 pm, followed by Santa, music, refreshments, games, kids crafts, face painting, hayrides, and more!
Kelso Rotary’s Lights in the Park
December 13–24 | Opens at 5 PM nightly
Tam O’Shanter Park
A dazzling display of holiday lights you won’t want to miss! Suggested donation: $5 per vehicle
KBCA Lighted Car Caravan
Friday, December 13 | 5 PM
Kelso City Hall
Decorate your car, join the caravan, and enjoy driving to and through the opening night of Kelso Rotary’s Lights in the Park! $5 per vehicle will be collected in advance to cover the suggested entry fee to Lights in the Park. Look for ticket info coming soon.
Get Involved!
Our next KBCA meeting is on December 10 at 9:30 am at the Cowlitz County Historical Museum. We’ll kick off plans for the 2025 Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser! Learn more about KBCA at www.letsgokelso.com or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/letsgokelso. Let’s make this December one to remember in Kelso!
Shoutout to our 2024 Shamrock Shuffle Sponsors – who will be joining us in 2025?
Fiesta Bonita, Jessica Wade State Farm, Kathie's Clutters & Crafts, KUKN, KLOG, The Blitz, Antidote Tap House, Penny Parvi American Family Insurance, The Basement on Allen, Lower Columbia Contractors Association, Longview Kelso Building Trades, Barbara Stephenson, Realtor - Windermere Real Estate, Kelso Theatre Pub, Noelle McLean Attorney at Law, Cowlitz County Event Center, Cowlitz County Tourism, Red Leaf Coffee, White's Cleaning Co., A & J Fencing, Shamrock Bar & Grill, Red Canoe Credit Union, Cowlitz County Habitat for Humanity Store, Kelso Eagles, JoJo + CoCo, and countless prize sponsors! Thank you to all!
Cowlitz County Commissioners
Elle Christensen Event Project Manager
Upcoming Holiday Festivities with the Chamber!
As we embrace the holiday season, we’re thrilled to announce two fantastic events to celebrate our community and spread festive cheer. Mark your calendars—we can’t wait to see you there!
Annual Chamber Business After Hours
Meeting: The Holiday Mixer
Tuesday, December 10 | 5:30 PM
The Roxy Theater
Join us for an evening of celebration as we:
• Introduce our new Board President and Board Members.
• Delight in festive bites, beverages, and live music from the Kelso High School Choir.
• Enjoy some holiday fun with an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest!
• Participate in the Wreath Raffle, featuring beautiful décor purchased from the Three Rivers Christian Schools Wreath Fundraiser.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors: The Elks, Three Rivers Christian Schools, Cowlitz PUD, Walstead Mertsching PS, Americana Health and Rehabilitation Center, Frontier Rehabilitation & Extended Care, Gibbs & Olson, Inc., PNE Construction, and Red Canoe Credit Union.
Let’s make it a night to remember as we reflect on a year of achievements and recognize the incredible support of our Board Members and Ambassadors.
12th Annual Jingle All The Way 5K Run/Walk
Thursday, December 12th
Kelso Rotary’s Lights in the Park: Tam O’Shanter Park
• 5:30 PM – Costume Contest
• 6:00 PM – Lighting Ceremony
• 6:30 PM – Race Starts
Gather your family and friends for this festive, family-friendly event! Enjoy:
• A visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus
• A Costume Contest
• Complimentary Holiday Sundaes from Burgerville and hot cocoa
• Kids' activities and the magical holiday lights
Registration Details
• $25 (includes a shirt)
• $15 (without a shirt) Register online here: Event Registration
Packet Pickup
• December 11th and 12th, 9 AM–5 PM, at the Visitor Center (105 Minor Road, Kelso, WA 98626)
• Or at the event from 4 PM–5 PM
A special thanks to our generous sponsors:
Burgerville, The Roof Doctor, Inc., Pacific Office Automation, Walstead Mertsching PS, D & PS Restaurant (McDonald’s of Longview and Woodland), Guesthouse Inn & Suites, Heritage Bank, Lower Columbia Longshoremen’s Federal Credit Union, Red Canoe Credit Union, Summerland Catering, Nick Lemiere- Edward Jones, Habitat For Humanity, Three River Christian Schools, and Twin City Bank.
We hope to see you at both events as we come together to celebrate the season. Happy Holidays!
Membership Luncheon
A panel discussion with our county’s school superintendents
On November 20th we had the honor of hosting the county’s first Superintendent Luncheon. We had President Seimears from Lower Columbia College, Superintendent Wesley Benjamin from Kalama School District, Superintendent Mary Beth Tack from Kelso School District, Superintendent Asha Riley from Woodland School District, Superintendent Karen Cloninger from Longview Public Schools, and Superintendent Chris Schumaker from Toutle Lake School District. We held a panel discussion where our Superintendents answered questions ranging from budget concerns, diversity in the district, what makes a successful student, the relationship between the public school system and our county industries, amongst other topics.
We learned about the collaborative nature of the county Superintendents as well as their desire to graduate kids that are ready for whatever they chose to do next, if that’s college, trade school, or entering the workforce, they are all working hard at preparing our youth. We also heard about the CTE (Career and Technical Education) programs in the county and the shared resources of the county schools.
It was an enlightening enjoyable afternoon, and our superintendents did an awesome job. Special acknowledgement to the Chambers Education committee that helped put together this event and work tirelessly at bridging the gap between our educational system and our local industry. Thank you Alyssa Joyner with Workforce, Bill
Longview Public Schools, Mary
Coach Cranston, Justin Zakariassen with Evergreen Home Loans, Melanie Walker ESD112, Melissa Boudreau of Kelso School District, Monica Seidl with Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments, Rachel Leinweber Kelso School District, Starr Thorpe with Three Rivers Schools, Teedara Wolf Cowlitz County PUD, Tamra Gilchrist from Lower Columbia College and our own Elle Christensen events project manager at the Chamber.
I think this is going to become a yearly event and ensure the lines of communication between industry and education stay open, productive and to ensure we share the same common goals.
Ofstun
Cranston
Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments
Bill Fashing Executive Director
A Journey through Kelso/Longview and Lower Columbia College (LLC)
Employers in the Kelso-Longview region have a unique opportunity to support their workforce by facilitating access to public transportation. With resources like RiverCities Transit, the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments Mobility Program, and Lower Columbia CAP, businesses can play an active role in reducing commuting challenges for employees. Here’s what you need to know:
Why Public Transportation Matters
Investing in public transit accessibility benefits both employers and employees. Reliable transportation reduces absenteeism, supports employee retention, and promotes sustainability by minimizing traffic congestion and emissions. For employees without personal vehicles, affordable transit options ensure reliable access to work.
Steps Employers Can Take
1. Promote Transit Options: Share details about local transit services such as RiverCities Transit, which operates fixed routes throughout the region, and CWCOG’s Mobility Management Program, which offers trip planning tools and a comprehensive provider directory to connect users to the best transportation options for their needs.
2. Offer Subsidized Transit Passes: Consider subsidizing bus passes for employees. Lower Columbia CAP provides assistance programs that may align with employer goals to support underserved populations. For Adults (19-24), RiverCities Transit offers a $2.00 Day Pass, Monthly Pass $14.00, Quarterly Pass $42.00 and Annual Pass $168.00 for their Fixed Route.
3. Collaborate with Mobility Management Services: CWCOG offers tools like the Mobility Management Trip Assistant, which employers can use to help employees plan their commutes with accessible and efficient transit options. There are 50 Providers in the Directory for SW Washington.
4. Encourage Flexibility: Providing staggered shifts or remote work
options can help employees better coordinate with available transit schedules.
5. Host a Transit Education Workshop: Many employees may be unfamiliar with how to navigate public transportation. CWCOG and RiverCities Transit offer travel training programs that could be introduced through workplace seminars. RiverCities Transit has a How to Ride Series on the CWCOG Mobility Website.
By fostering a transit-friendly work culture, employers not only enhance employee satisfaction and productivity but also contribute to a more connected and sustainable community. For more resources, visit the CWCOG Mobility Website, How to Ride Videos, Trip Planner for SW Washington, RiverCities Transit, or Lower Columbia CAP. Please note that Lower Columbia CAP transportation services will end June 30, 2025.
If you have questions or want more information about the CowlitzWahkiakum Council of Governments Mobility Management Program, travel trainings, or mobility services, please contact Megan Witz, mwirtz@cwcog.org.
A big THANK YOU to all the new and loyal members who have started or continued their partnership with us this month:
• Americana Health & Rehabilitation Center
• Big Smoke in Little Kalama
• Up to Par Cleaning LLC
• J.S. Chappell, LLC
• Pape' Material Handling
• Employer's Overload
• Sides Bookkeeping Services
• Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington
• Apogee Longview
• The Main Event Party Store
• Reliques Longview
• BBSI
• Hop N Grape Longview LLC
• Tierra Interpreting
• Cacao Kingdom, LLC
• Urban Bungee
• Roofing Systems Northwest
• Arbor Vancouver - Equus Workforce
• Red Canoe Credit Union - Kelso
• Teevin Bros. Land & Timber
• Trammell Crow Company
• Elite Electrical Contracting
• Rollins Utility Locating LLC
NEW MEMBERS
Add your business to our growing membership Call 360-423-8400 Today!
Membership packages to fit your needs
Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.
• Annual Meeting and Banquet
• Networking Events
• Committee Participation
• Business Contacts
• Quarterly Membership Meetings
• Civic Representation
• Monthly Business After Hours
Business Services include marketing for your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data.
• Mailing Labels
• Membership Window Decals
• Member Referrals
• Ribbon Cutting
• Website Links
• Member to Member Discounts
• Membership Directory
• Tax Deduction
• Newsletter
• Business Card Display
• Use of Chamber Logo
Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.
• Legislative Representation
• Issues Tracking and Information
• Task Forces
• Candidate Forums
• Legislative Update Breakfast
• Demographics Publication
Membership Packages
• Diamond
• Platinum
• Gold
• Silver
• Bronze
• Standard
• Nonprofit
Hosted by:
Our November Business After Hours was held by our friends at KLTV on November 12! Attendees had so much fun recording holiday cheers that are airing on KLTV throughout the holiday season. We also enjoyed each other’s company, great food and the friendly staff at KLTV. For those not familiar KLTV is Kelso –Longview’s only public access television station and broadcast on government channel 29, education Channel 28 and public access channel 11.
KLTV began as a class at Lower Columbia College in 1973. After the college decided to discontinue the class, a group of citizens formed a non-profit organization that was named Lower Columbia Telecommunications Association which would later become Kelso Longview Television, Inc. Devotion to the concept of access television as a means of communication throughout the county help the group together. The station operated without a budget until 1980 when the city of Longview agreed to give a portion of the franchise fee to operate the access channel.
KLTV also offers memberships that range from $25 a year to $40 a year as well as Training Workshops on camera operation, editing, directing, producing, graphics, script writing and several other classes. You can also hire KLTV to video your event, create your company promotional material, edit a video, as well as many other services available. KLTV is a gem in our community, and I highly recommend reaching out to them if you need any video work, editing work, or need to learn a few new tricks of the trade. You can reach them at their offices at 360-636-3310 or visit their website at www.kltv.org.
A Journey through Kelso/Longview and Lower Columbia College (LLC)
It’s been a wonderful year for Kelso in 2024. Using Federal ARPA funds, community donations, and state funding we were able to complete some significant projects including; senior center improvements, rest room facilities for the spray park, improved street lighting through the city, train station repairs and maintenance, Lads and Lassies Park, and Tam O Shanter park improvements. There are still about $300,000 left in the ARPA funds which must be committed by the end of the year. Items discussed by the Council include, pickle ball courts, WIFI for the business district and Tam O Shanter, and general park improvements. Two significant projects are also included in 2025 plans, commencing construction on the Hazel Street overpass and completion of the spray park.
The Council has also been presented a preliminary budget for 2025 and 2026. Overall, the budget retains the current level of service. with a small change of 2.4% from 2024 to 2025. Additional positions will be added in community development and public works operations, and police. These align with the goals of safety, economic development and maintaining our infrastructure.
The council will be reviewing the budget and potential fee increases at a special meeting at 4:30 on December 3rd and regular council meeting that same evening.
Holiday Show at The Broadway Gallery
December 5 | 11 AM - 4 PM
The Holiday Show at The Broadway Gallery features artwork by member artist Barbara Wright, along with a special guest artist. The event is complemented by live music from Del Biolostosky, creating a festive atmosphere to celebrate the season. It’s a vibrant gathering showcasing local talent and creativity.
The Broadway Gallery 1418 Commerce Ave, Longview, WA 98632
Whispers of Winter
December 7 | 10 AM - 5 PM
Experience all the charm Downtown Longview has to offer this holiday season with festival decor, a scavenger hunt, hot cocoa, district wide sales, and the promise of a winter wonderland! Enjoy the past, present and forever of Downtown Longview.
Downtown Longview
Starting on Broadway St.
Holiday Bazaars & Markets
December 6 thru 14
Cowlitz County Holiday Bazaars & Markets feature a wide range of local vendors offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal goods. A cheerful atmosphere, often accompanied by holiday music and treats, making them a popular destination for both locals and visitors during the holiday season.
Holiday Caravan to Lights in the Park
December 13 | 5 PM
Join the Kelso Business and Community Association for a magical holiday event! Decorate your vehicle in holiday style and parade with us to and through the Kelso Rotary's Lights in the Park!
Meet at Kelso City Hall and drive parade-style to Lights in the Park at Tam O'Shanter Park. $5 per vehicle.
Kelso Rotary Lights In The Park
December 13 | 5 PM - 9 PM
This signature winter family event is a drive through of spectacular lighted displays at Tam O’Shanter Park in Kelso, WA. Come see Santa, penguins, elves and reindeer, holiday trains, gigantic snowflakes, and lights, lights and more lights.
Visit Candy Land at the Library
December 17 | 5:30 PM - 7 PM
Inviting all children and their grown-ups to traverse the Gumdrop Pass, sail the Ice Cream Sea, and wade through Molasses Swamp to the Candy Castle. Along the way, you'll have the chance to do themed crafts and activities. Costumes are welcome!
Longview Public Library 1600 Louisiana Street, Longview, WA 98632
Solstice Lantern Walk
December 21 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Join us for Longview's annual Solstice Lantern Walk Through the Solar System. We'll follow the model solar system given to the City of Longview by Friends of Galileo in 2001.
At the marker for the Sun, south end of Lake Sacajawea Park.
Ribbon Cuttings
Koelsch Communities 1324 3rd Ave | Longview, WA 98632
On November 8th, the chamber had the privilege of hosting a ribbon cutting for our friends at Koelsch Communities as they celebrated their 25th Christmas Bizarre. As the group from Koelsch introduced themselves and said how long they’d been with the company, it was amazing, other than a few brand-new employees, most of their group has been there for over 10 years, and some longer than 25yrs. We are so lucky in this community to have such outstanding senior living communities that service all levels of need. Thank you for what you do Koelsch Family.
