CHAMBER 0611

KELSO LONGVIEW

Vol. 3, No. 6 • June 2011

Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce • Longview Downtowners

LET’S PAR-TEE? Friday, June 17 Longview Country Club Registration: 7 am Shotgun Start: 9 am

2011 EVENING WITH THE STARS Congratulations, Winners!

We would like to congratulate everyone who was nominated and extend a thank you to our event sponsors: Music & More Productions, Mr. C’s Photography, Highlander Cycling, Fibre Federal Credit Union, Cowlitz Credit Union, Heritage Bank, and KLTV. Congratulations to all nominees and winners! See you in 2012!

CRYSTAL APPLE AWARDS

STATE OF THE COUNTY THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2011 Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Membership Meeting Cowlitz Regional Conference Center 1900 7th Avenue, Longview 11:45 am – 1:30 pm $30 until June 1 $35 after June 1 and at Door $45/ Not Yet a Member

Featured Speakers: Lisa Mustion, Administrator Family House Academy

Brenda Crawford, Teacher Butler Acres Elementary

WORKFORCE EDUCATION AWARDS Jacki Masters, City of Longview Public Utilities For her workforce education training; keeping utilities as low as possible

PAID

Centralia, WA 98531 Permit #26

Presorted Std U.S. Postage

The registration fee includes a chance to win $5,000 in our putting contest, 18 holes of golf, lunch, carts, tee prize and team photos, followed by an awards presentation to include hors d’oeuvres and a no-host bar. Prizes will be awarded for holes-in-one, closest to the pin and longest drive, as well as team prizes for low gross scores.

Not certain golfing is your ‘fore’-tay but you would like to have your business recognized? Several opportunities for sponsorship are still available and we would like to take a moment to discuss those opportunities with you. Give Amy a call at 360-423-8400.

It’s not too late to take advantage of this fun networking opportunity! Find the registration and sponsorship forms online at www.KelsoLongviewChamber.org or contact Amy, 360-423-8400.

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation presents

Brian Mitchell, Teacher Mark Morris High School

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS Dr. Glenys Hill, For her many years of service as Kelso School District Superintendent

Brendan Glaser, Lower Columbia College, For his variety of workforce education courses

Cowlitz County Commissioners:

Michael Karnofski James Misner George Raiter You are invited to attend the Kelso Longview Chamber’s 2nd Quarter Membership Luncheon. As the County moves into recovery, find out how you and your business may be affected by changes in service and budget.

Reservations for our Quarterly Membership Luncheon can be made by calling the Chamber at 360-423-8400.

Dr. James McLaughlin, For his many yeas of service as President of Lower Columbia College

(Brendan was not able to attend, but thank you to his colleague)

1563 Olympia Way • Longview, WA 98632

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS Business of the Year recognition is based STAR on three parts: commitment to business RISING Highlander excellence in practice and principle; Cycling service to the Chamber of Commerce; and Imports service to the community as a whole.

IN THIS ISSUE Business Briefs . . . . . . . . . . 2 Downtown Longview . . . . . . . 4 President’s Message . . . . . . . 7 Business Toolbox . . . . . . . . . 8 Around the Watercooler . . . 10 SMALL BUSINESS Banda’s Bouquets

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS PERSON: Cal Dowd

LARGE BUSINESS PNE Corporation

Mark Your Calendar . . . . . . 11

PAGE 2

• JUNE 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

business NORPAC wins Head Start National

BRIEFS

Pat Bartley owned and operated a secretarial service in the Bay area (California) for 10 years before returning home to Kelso after 9/11. She then worked for Kaiser Permanente as their oncall secretary in four clinics in Longview and Vancouver. She has now developed a similar business, Another Right Hand, On-call Secretar y.

“I truly enjoy helping people achieve success in their business endeavors – be it administrative in nature or organizing an unorganized office,” said Bartley in a press release. With more than 20 years experience, she is accomplished in many roles, from executive assistant to receptionist. Bartley works in her client’s office and also has a fully equipped office at her home near Castle Rock.

Her phone number is 360-274-6024 or 360-430-9500.

Got

NEWS?

Let the Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce help publicize your promotions, significant happenings and personnel achievements.

Send info to: ndavey@ kelsolongviewchamber.org

Corporate Award A delegation from Longview received royal treatment in Kansas City recently when the national Head Start organization presented its National Head Start Corporate Award to NORPAC. Attending the festivities were Lauri Grimes and Cindy Hernandez, representing NORPAC, and Cowlitz County Head Start representatives, including Laurie Severson, Carolyn Perrault, and director Sandy Junker. Cowlitz County resident James McBride (who won the Father of the Year award), was also part of the delegation.

NORPAC has a long tradition of supporting United Way, including 15 years’ participation in the agency’s Day of Caring — the flurry of activity which launches its annual campaign.

They look forward to a new outreach experience every year, said NORPAC employee Brian Hewitt. He recalled the first time, about six years ago, when they branched out from their traditional Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) project and requested the opportunity to also experience a variety of other United Way agencies.

“Cindy Hernandez (of NORPAC’s TMP Lab) went to Head Start and fell in love with the kids,” Hewitt said.

There, noted co-worker Ray Harrison, she discovered a “big need for tricycles,” leading to her following up by fundraising and enlisting others to help fill the agency’s need.

First, Hernandez launched the Pedal Partners office club.

From left: Laurie Severson and Carolyn Perrault, with Cowlitz County Head Start; NORPAC employees Cindy Hernandez and Lauri Grimes; Sandy Junker, Cowlitz County Head Start director.

“Donations for coffee and treats built a base,” she said, “but it moved those awesome people I work with to do more.

First, we bought tricycles and rickshaws. Then, we brought in other sectors of the community to support the Head Start program, as well.” The Weyerhaeuser Foundation and local firefighters, for example, helped to fund playground equipment and the installation of bike paths.

Sandy Junker, local Head Start director, nominated NORPAC for its ongoing support, including Day of Caring work and the company’s annual coat drive. NORPAC received the Regional Head Start Corporate

award, followed by the Washington State Head Start Corporate Award and finally, the national award.

At the Kansas City event, Hernandez and Grimes accepted a plaque, along with a $500 gift certificate to Kaplan, an early learning company, which was, in turn, passed along to the local Head Start program to purchase early learning tools.

The two women spoke about NORPAC’s fondness for Head Start.

“We would like to express how deeply grateful, honored and humbled we are to accept this award from such a wonderful organization,” Grimes said.

“NORPAC loves Head Start.”

•••

Kelso Longview

Chamber

of

Commerce Team

Rick Winsman, President/CEO Norma Davey, Director of Administration Amy Johnson, Program Director Debbie Brock, Bookkeeper

Kelso Visitor Center

Connie Parsons, Center Director Lois Sigurdson, Center Assistant

Cowlitz County Tourism Bureau Mark Plotkin, Tourism Director Megan Wells, Tourism Assistant Natalie Haney, Tourism Assistant

LET US SHOW YOU HOW WE CAN HELP!

Respecting People. Impacting Business.™

(360) 414-1200

1208 Washington Way • Suite 140 Longview, WA 98632

Kelso Longview Business Connection published monthly by Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce 1563 Olympia Way, Longview, WA 98632 360-423-8400 Produced by Columbia River Reader To advertise, call 360-749-2632.

E-mail: nedpiper@comcast.net Ad Deadline: 25th each month

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 3

• JUNE 2011

FIRST-EVER LONGVIEW SQUIRREL FEST

Go nuts August 6 at community celebration honoring our furry friends

L

ongview’s Sandbaggers and several community organizations are hosting a full day of events for the Squirrel Fest on Saturday August 6, at the Civic Circle in Longview. Inspiration for the festival came from the Nutty Narrows Bridge, located near the Longview Library on the Civic Circle, and its creators, the Longview Sandbaggers. A contest will be held in which community members design and build new squirrel bridges. The winner will be announced when the new bridge is unveiled during Squirrel Fest, the first event of its kind in Washington State. Organizers hope it will become an annual celebration.

“It’s unique,” said event marketing chairperson Marianne Chambers, of The Daily News. “I’ve been in other cities and I’ve never seen a town where traffic stops for squirrels.”

The idea for Squirrel Fest originated as the brain child of Pat Sari, general manager at Columbia Ford Lincoln Hyundai Nissan. He first imagined the event in a visionary letter to his friends, Karen and John (read it on page 5). The letter fell into the hands of unnamed individuals who caught the spirit and scurried to get the event off the ground. Chambers said she is pleased that Sari’s idea has taken wings. There are flying squirrels, remember.

Squirrel Fest will include a Kids Parade; the Nutty Mile Backwards Run, followed by a pancake feed; the Squirrel Boogie Street Dance held in front of the Monticello Hotel; a microbrew and wine tasting and squirrel tours of the Old West Side. A variety of other family fun activities and contests will be held throughout the day. The date of the event was chosen to coincide with several other events in Longview, including the second annual Longview Grand Prix Criterium bike race hosted by Highlander Cycling, the TerryTaylor neighborhood garage sale, Bob’s Sportsmen’s Show, the Cowlitz Classic Soccer

Cowlitz PUD can help you reduce your electric bill

“It’s appropriate that there’s a Squirrel Fest,” Chambers said.

“Pat Sari deserves what he wants.

He’s a great guy.”

Several sponsors have already contributed to the event, including Columbia Ford, Bob’s Merchandise, oM Originals Marketing, JH Kelly, Reed Hadley at Edward Jones, Renaud Electric and SignMasters. The festival will be run entirely by volunteers and with community support. Any other businesses and/or individuals who would like to sponsor or make a donation would be greatly appreciated. Volunteers are also need to help run the event.

For more information about Squirrel Fest including activities, donations, sponsorships and how you can help by becoming a volunteer, please email lvsquirrelfest@gmail.com or call 360-6364490. Follow on Facebook@LVSquirrelfest.

School’s out and they’re already bored?

Grandkids visiting?

What to do?

GO SWIMMING!

offers business customers CASH INCENTIVES to improve inefficient lighting systems.

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL $100 Iniation Fee,

$25 Monthly Dues, $50 Monthly Food Minimum.

Just $75 per month and you get to eat $50 of it!

Includes full social use of the facility and golf privileges with payment of green fees once per month. Limited time. Call or email Michael Montero for details or to arrange a tour: michael@ longviewcountryclub.net

41 Country Club Dr Longview, WA www.longviewcountryclub.net

(360) 577-7514 • www.cowlitzpud.org

“We’re excited about another opportunity for a gathering of the entire community to join in celebrating our great city,” said Allan Erickson, event chairman. The event is free to all and everyone is welcome to come and just have fun with friends and family.”

Join the club!

Our CEEP-Plus Lighting Program

Call us to find out more and arrange for an energy audit.

Tournament and the Cowlitz Black Bears’ baseball game in the evening.

Enjoy the good life . . . in your community’s backyard!

Longview Country Club • 360-423-8500

PAGE 4

• JUNE 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

What’s happenin’

Recycle magazines at the Longview Library

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS BITS

Business Solves Parking Problem

Andrea Lamarre has moved her spa from Kelso, where client parking was an issue, to 1205 14th Avenue, Suite 100, former site of the American Red Cross’ Longview office. Spa Euphoria offers massages, facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures, laser hair removal, sunless tanning, eyelash extensions and cosmetic tattooing. The staff are independent contractors who lease space from Lamarre. The spa facility, which is entered from the parking lot side of the building, was remodeled and decorated by friends and family and is simultaneous soothing and vibrant, with splashes of art and color. Don’t miss the story of the “tiles” in the remodeled bank vault.

Mon-Fri 9am-3pm for product pickup, 7 days a week by appointment. 360-5782475.

We’re off to the races!

2nd Annual Longview Grand Prix Criterium Aug 6 at the Civic Circle!

Rental Bikes Now Available!

Cannondale • Schwinn • GT KHS • Scott • Felt Kona • Rocky Mountain 1313 Commerce Ave. Longview, WA

360-353-3790

www.highlander-cycling.com

Still No Cigars

NEXT MEETING

Anyone looking for a place to recycle their latest Redbook or Sports Illustrated need look no further than the Longview Public Library, says Director Chris Skaugset.

Through a partnership between Altrusa and the library, the public can bring in all the magazines they’re done with to the library’s Lower Floor Desk. There is a shelf there from which people can pick up old magazines to take home and read as if they were new.

Mar y Jane’s House of 5:30 pm Glass opened at 1156 Tuesday, June 14th Commerce Avenue. The Los Rocas shop stocks glass pipes, 1260 Commerce bongs, vaporizers, canJeanette Palfy on dles, incense, apparel and more. Their motto is “Buy Downtown Market Everyone is welcome. local, By American, Buy and Downtown Live!

Come mix and mingle.

Mary Jane’s.” COO BranRefreshments. Info: don Brock said the busiDoug Har vey 360-636-4477 ness is named after his Longview Downtowners 360-423-8403, ext. 401 mother. Four other family members work for the It’s good for those wishing to get rid business. The Longview of old magazines, and it’s good for store joins six stores located in the Vandoor. Adoption of this policy was a “no those who get to read what others couver/Portland area. Brock said they brainer,” Brock said. have donated. Plus, it’s good for opened this (Longview) store because the environment, Skaugset noted.

“We, as a company, don’t want to encourmany of his Vancouver customers live age minors to smoke.” New to Longview, He recommends the removal, or in Longview. He did not know at the Brock said the welcome has been warm. blackening out of any name and time he committed to the location that “Everyone has greeted us with open address information on old magaanother smoke shop would open across arms. They’ve been nothing short of very zines. “So, do something good for the street. But the two shops carry nice.”

The store’s hours are Mon-Sun you, the community, and the envidifferent products, he said, and the 10am-10pm. 360-577-4204. ronment,” Skaugset says, “and relationship is “friendly.” The 12-yearbring in your old magazines to the old business only sells to customers Stars on Broadway library.”

18 year or older and checks IDs at the The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Education For more info call 360-442-5309.

Foundation honored outstanding individuals and businesses at a May 11 award celebration. Longview Downtowners members received Janitorial & Maintenance Supply three awards: Banda’s Bouquets, Small Business (Lisa Allen); HighLocally Owned lander Cycling Imports (Rising Star (Scott and Janice Forbes) and Cal Earth-friendly Green Seal Dowd, Prographyx (Business Person of the Year).

Cleaning Products Linda McCord, Lord & McCord ArtWorks, won the Best of Show award in the Southwest Washington Watercolor Society’s Spring Juried Free Delivery Exhibition in Vancouver with her painting “On the Mend.”

PAMSCO

360-425-1989

Toll Free 877-472-6726 pamsco@qwestoffice.net 1426 12th Ave. • Longview, WA

Do You Want to be a Star?

The WSU Small Business Center and Lower Columbia College are offering a Small Business Entrepreneur Certification program. Classes will be online and participants will meet regularly with Susan Hoosier, Business Development Specialist. Classes include Start Your Own Small Business, Creating a Successful Business Plan, Small Business Marketing on a Shoestring and Accounting Fundamentals. now you have choices!

Hoosier will help develop goals and objectives, a business plan, and creation of a market niche. Info: 360-442-2946.

• Offset

Print Options

Serving Cowlitz County and Columbia County since 1987

Bedroom Sets from

$ FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

999

1413 Commerce Ave.

360-575-9804

www.elamshf.com

“Your business friendly florist”

FATHER’S DAY

June 19th Wow him with a Truck Bouquet!

360-577-3824

Visit us in Downtown Longview Or www.BandasBouquets.com

Printing • Digital Printing

• In-Line Booklet Making • Short Run Economy Printing

Proud Chamber Member for over 26 years!

(360) 423-1237

www.reproprinting.com 1444 12th Avenue • Longview, WA

We print flyers!

FREE Local Delivery!

Update on Longview Downtown Market

The opening of the market is postponed until Friday, June 3 and will be open from 3 – 9 pm.. The market will offer produce, flowers, plants, prepared foods, arts and crafts and activities for children and is seeking vendors. Contact Jeanette Palfr y at 360-903-3329 for information and vendor application forms.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 5

DOWNTOWN LONGVIEW

What do we want?

By Laurel Murphy

WANT

Bowling Alley, Children’s Museum, Condos, Comedy Club, Cigar Lounge, Book Store, Indoor Farmers Market, Grocery Store, Visitor’s Center, Clothing and Shoe Store, Water Park, Mixed Use Buildings, Rooftop Gardens, Teen and Senior Centers, Brew Pub, Toy Store.

DON’T WANT

Social Services, Churches, Pawn Shops, Casinos, Bail Bondsmen, Smoke Shops, Tattoo Parlors, Medical Marijuana Outlet.

These are businesses and uses that the community does and does not want in downtown Longview.

At least these were the opinions of the 130 people who attended an April 26 Community Vision session at the Longview City Council chambers.

no one objected to bringing back Friday night cruising.

The six vision questions covered what uses, customers and users, and goods and services should be in downtown, what would downtown look like in five years, how to measure success, and priorities. In summary, people want a safer, cleaner, more attractive downtown; a center for shopping and activities for all ages. As the “Want” and”Don’t Want” lists above indicate, we want what we don’t have and don’t want what we have.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS June 16 • 7pm public meeting Downtown Revitalization Longview City Hall HyettPalma, revitalization consultants hired by the City of Longview, will give their final report, including a five-year downtown action plan with timelines and roles for the public, private and nonprofit sectors.

Dolores Palma, a principal with HyettPalma, a consulting firm that specializes in the economic renaissance of older business districts, led the discussion of six vision questions. Palma made it clear from the beginning that she was a “moderator,” not a “facilitator.”

Her firm has worked with 150 towns and, if an audience member presented an idea that she knew was not workable, she said she would not include it.

She subsequently nixed two ideas: downtown pedestrian mall (access for small businesses) and themes (can become dated; the best plan is historic preservation). She was surprised that

This session was only one part of the information gathering that HyettPalma has conducted over the last four months. The firm has reviewed city planning documents, conducted retail business and business climate surveys, interviewed downtown leaders and met with stakeholders groups.

HyettPalma will reveal answers on June 16 at 7pm at a public meeting back at the Longview City Council chambers.

The report will include a five-year downtown action plan with timelines and roles for the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Plan to attend. Find out if one of the recommendations is to bring back cruising.

•••

• JUNE 2011

Letter from the Future Regrets from visionary Pat Sari to his out-of-town friends Dear Karen and John,

quality “handmade only” artwork.

Thanks for the invite, but we are enthused about a new event in Longview, Washington, which takes place at the same time.

There is a salmon derby and a Lake Sacajawea fishing derby for kids.

Alvin: not a

I know you two have heard chipmunk of and been to different I recently found out that spirited communities that Alvin was not a chipmunk. come together to celebrate He was really a squirrel life. There’s Oyster Fest, with a bad voice. Alvin and P at Sari Garlic Fest, Seafood Fair, General Mgr, Columbia Ford his group will be there Wine Fest, Chocolate Fest, to play for the big dance Harvest Fest, Logger Fest, at the Civic Center, along with the Kite Fest and who knows what else other big name entertainers. Even the you will find? They are all wonderful squirrel square dancers will be there. community events, proud and fun.

They have skydiving squirrels that fall The Sandbaggers did it from the sky. There is a ski boat driven But years ago, an ambitious civic group by a squirrel and a squirrel skiing. decided to build a bridge across a busy thoroughfare. It wasn’t just any bridge.

12 bridges and the Trail of Nuts It was a bridge for squirrels.

And now, Longview has 12 squirrel bridges around the town. Just follow the That’s right: A bridge for squirrels to famous Squirrel Trail, also known as the cross from tree to tree over the busy Trail of Nuts. The kids love the Stations street. The bridge was a class act made of the Squirrel, where they can learn of a good traction fire hose and it even something about the life of a squirrel had side rails. The Nutty Narrows and win prizes. Don’t let the kids miss Bridge received considerable publicity; the chestnut hunt. The most collected so much, in fact, that people traveled nuts wins a prize. And really squirrelly from the East Coast to view such a folks like chocolate-covered nuts, as the bridge in Longview, Washington. community roasts the mayor and pours chocolate all over him.

At Christmas time it was decorated with special LED lights to honor the The famous Sandbaggers were responsquirrels. sible for the original Nutty Narrows Bridge and they will be at their best, for Well, this simple goodwill gesture for sure. the squirrels has turned into one of the Northwest’s premier festivals. It is now There is an acorn car said to run on known as “Squirrel Fest” and it is fun. squirrel power. It gets 120 miles per bag of nuts!

City full of nuts Squirrel Fest in Longview, Washington I guess I’m a little enthused about — the city full of nuts. They have a Squirrel Fest. August and September 20-foot high squirrel cage that generates always seem to have the perfect weather electricity. There is a cook-off where for this event and our family won’t miss you can taste specialties of everything it. It all started back in August 2011 and from roasted chestnuts to four kinds of every year’s event has been better than sweet corn to beef brisket and baked the previous. salmon. This is a national competition.

If you feel like being a little squirrelly And there’s a squirrel parade, squirrel or trying some acorn wine with good balloons, squirrel shirts, squirrel friends, maybe you could change your costumes, squirrel races. plans and join us in Longview.

Longview has the biggest acorn in the From the City of Nuts, world, almost 10 feet high!

There is a race that starts at the famous Nutty Narrow Bridge, which has become known as the “Nut Run.”

Pat Sari

There are about 40 wineries in town for the event with samples of Washington wines. And artists come from near and far to show off their For details about this year’s Squirrel Fest, see page 3.

PAGE 6

• JUNE 2011

MT ST HELENS

Tourism promoters lead successful Season Kick-Off Tour

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

Legislators visit NORPAC

Story by Megan Wells, Cowlitz County Tourism Assistant • Photos by Mark Plotkin, Cowlitz County Tourism Director

O

n the 31st anniversary of its eruption, Mount St. Helens didn’t disappoint onlookers who traveled up Spirit Lake Highway for the 2011 Season Kick-Off Tour. The mountain gave a show early on in the day, spouting a perfect cloud of steam into the crisp sunny blue sky that could be seen from the boardwalk at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center at Silver Lake. The Cowlitz County Tourism Bureau was joined on the tour by several local groups including managers from the Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center in Kelso, the Three

Rivers Mall and the Woodland Chamber of Commerce. Two ladies from the Seattle Concierge Association were in attendance along with local families.

The Kick-Off Tour was designed to give members in the hospitality industry a chance to see both the visitor centers and some of the other local and privately owned businesses along Spirit Lake Highway which are often overlooked.

The collaborative effort of the Tourism

Bureau, local business owners, State Park officials, Weyerhaeuser employees and USFS employees made a huge impact on members of the tour, “Having not been up to the mountain in almost 11 years, I was really impressed with every destination we went to,” said Natalie Haney, community member and Assistant at the Tourism Bureau. “Every place we went to was a different experience and I found there’s a lot to do other than just the visitor centers.”

With rave reviews and requests for another tour, the Tourism Bureau is planning a second trip along the southside of the mountain in late summer.

The trip will be a similar format with longer stops and special activities and events planned at each destination.

Stay tuned for more information about the trip! Please contact Megan Wells at megan@visitmtsthelens.com if you have any questions or would like to be notified about the tour.

•••

200 QUALITY USED CARS IN STOCK View them all on our website:

columbiaautogroup.com

Senator Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Jamie Herrera Beutler recently toured NORPAC’s millsite in separate visits to Longview.

Above, Congresswoman Herrera listens to a panel discussion with NORPAC staff about challenges in the newsprint industry.

At left, Graham Bailey explains the papermaking process to Senator Cantwell. NORPAC, a leading producer of newsprint and employer of more than 400, remains one of our area’s top businesses, attracting the interest and respect of community, business and political leaders. The company was founded 31 years ago as a joint venture between Nippon Paper Co. and Weyerhauser Company. Photos by Perry Piper, courtesy of NORPAC

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 7

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Signs of the Times Rick Winsman

Local indicators hint at recovery

“Coming Soon.” Words that we have not seen on empty store fronts for several years are now beginning to appear.

And the Chamber thinks that this is a good indication that our local economy is finally showing signs of recovery.

Office Depot is finally moving into the space at the Triangle Mall that was prepped for them over two years ago.

Two new industrial projects at the Port of Longview are about to come on-line with new jobs and a real shot in the arm for our entire economy. And word from our local governments is that revenues from all sources are edging above projected amounts.

“Now Hiring.” Signs are appearing in store windows indicating jobs within are available. The Daily News’ “Help Wanted” ad section is growing. Local businesses are grumbling at their inability to find and hire additional staff.

“Welcome.” As our calendar shows the year moving into summer — and tourist season — the anticipation of more visitors coming to the area is foremost in the minds of our local businesses.

Tourism is a huge part of our economic base, a fact emphasized by the Cowlitz Economic Development Council’s study concluded last year by TIP Strategies. It is anticipated that the current study of Longview’s downtown by

Hyett/Palma will include a big tourism component in its recommendations, as well.

If anyone doubts the impact tourism can play on our local economy, they have only to analyze the Search and Rescue conference last month at the County EXPO Center. More than 650 people from all over the world convened here, generating thousands of bed nights in our overnight facilities and thousands of dollars into local businesses. The Chamber is working with Cowlitz County Commissioner James Misner in developing, implementing and promoting his “Big Idea” program designed to bring more tourism — and tourism dollars — into our area.

If we can just get our State Legislature to complete the people’s business and hang out the best sign they possibly could: “Gone Fishin’ ” Now that’s a sign of the times we can all get behind.

••• Rick Winsman is president of Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce’s board. He has accounced plans to retire at the end of this year. The search process is underway to find his replacement.

• JUNE 2011

PAGE 8

• JUNE 2011

business

TOOLBOX

By Susan Hoosier

Bring their dog to work? Free parking?

Get creative with employee benefits

H

iring and retaining good employees is an ongoing concern of business owners. While there are many individuals who start businesses with no intention of ever hiring an employee, the fact is that there are limitations to the revenue potential of a one-person firm. There are also some business owners who seemingly care very little for their employees and seem to ignore the high cost of employee turnover. In both of these instances, the business owner fails to realize the value that good employees can bring to his or her business.

On the other hand, there are many business owners who want to hire and retain good people and they really do believe that you should “always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers,” as recommended by Stephen R. Covey.

How can you attract and retain good employees if you have limited resources? Certainly, a business could consider flexible work hours or paid time off, but how about considering the following perks: 1) Public transportation or parking fees 2) Warehouse club memberships 3) Internet access at home 4) Cell phones 5) Business cards and a job title 6) Season tickets for a local sports team or cultural venue 7) Gym memberships or yoga classes 8) Free food or drinks in the break/ kitchen area 9) A dog-friendly office Probably one of the most powerful perks that a business owner can provide is to create an environment that allows the employee:

• The opportunity to be heard • To be instrumental to the company’s growth • A chance to be creative and make decisions • A chance to wear many hats and learn how to run a business.

Employees like to stay with companies that provide a caring and thoughtful environment. They are less interested in impersonal corporations and companies that think they are creating a thoughtful environment when, in fact, the company is simply lax and arbitrary about implementing policies. Lax and arbitrary policies are de-motivating and, while the business owner thinks they are doing some of their employees a favor, other employees may view the owner’s action as unfair and punitive.

As in all things related to operating a well-run business, planning and implementing employee policies should be done carefully. If you are unsure about how to move forward with hiring a first employee or would like to be more deliberate about developing internal personnel policies, consider accessing no-fee, confidential services through the local Small Business Development Center or contact a local consultant with expertise in human resource development.

Susan J. Hoosier is a SBDC Certified Business Advisor with the Longview Small Business Development Center, part of the 24 statewide offices of the Washington Small Business Development Center network offering in-depth, confidential, and no-cost management advice to businesses within the state. Visit www.wsbdc or contact Susan Hoosier at shoosier@ wsu.edu or 360-442-2946.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

No more topless bears at Story Field Corby to sport team jersey as Black Bears open second season Story by Tom Myklebust Photos by Perry Piper

J

une 3 marks the opening of Cowlitz Black Bears’ second season, when the team faces the Portland Bucks at Lower Columbia College’s Story Field.

Ticket sales have been brisk, said general manager Grant Wilson. Seating for groups on the popular party deck or party suites are available, along with regular stadium seating, starting at $5.

The festive atmosphere at games last summer helped make for great fun at the ballpark, with, an outdoor grill, between-inning promotions and prizes, photo opps, fireworks and Corby, the mascot, who will — according to rumor — be wearing his “beary” own team jersey. On top of all this, these athletes can really play ball.

“The level of play is very conpetitive with some of the best college players and would campare to what you would watch in the professional minor leagues,” said Wilson.

Cowlitz Black Bears is one of nine teams in the West Coast League, a collegiate wood bat summer league with teams located in British Columbia, Washington and Oregon. Many local sports enthusiasts and community leaders worked together to attract and accomodate the team in locating here.

“This area is very supportive of their community and local baseball,” said an enthusiastic Tony Bonacci, owner of the Cowlitz Black Bears. Local resident and Bob’s Merchandise vice president Matt Schlecht is equally enthusiastic, speculating that the Bears’ games are similar to what baseball in the 1950s might have been like.

PLAY BALL! For more info and game schedule: Website www.cowlitzblackbears.com Ticket Office on Story Field at Lower Columbia College (adjacent to the parking lot off Olympia Way opposite 19th Ave).

Hours: 8:30am–12 noon, 1–5 pm Monday–Friday and before games.

Phone: 360-703-3195

“The players are accessible, the games are reasonably priced and on the weekend you can work in the yard, go to the game and be home at a decent hour without fighting traffic,” he said. “The line is not long to get in, you see friends and it’s safe for my 6-year-old.” The games have proved popular with all ages.

“We make Black Bears baseball a family night,” said Kalei LaFave, Cowlitz County United Way executive director and mother of two teenagers. “We are all busy and it’s our opportunity to be together.”

•••

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 9

FIGHT

STRESS,

Stay Healthy

By Julie Nelson

• JUNE 2011

stress, act quickly. There are a variety of tactics you can use to help ease some of the tension. You just need to be aware and understand what causes the build up in stress and then act accordingly.

nate. Employees at all levels are prone to developing stress-related illnesses, and those who choose to deal with the issue head on are the ones who stand the best chance of overcoming it.

Some examples of changes you can make on an organizational level to reduce stress could include:

•••

• Redistribute employee workloads or hire new full-time or temporary workers to help take some of the burden off your current employees’ shoulders.

• Provide opportunities for fun and bonding outside of work.

• Open the lines of communication to be sure your employees understand their jobs and why they are important.

T

• Allow your employees to participate in discussions and decision making that affect the business.

he Japanese concept of “Karshi” can almost literally be translated as “death from overwork.” The term first came into common usage in Japan during the 1980s after rising concern following the sudden death of several highranking business men who showed no signs of previous health issues. “Karshi” has been attributed to a wide variety of stress-related medical issues, such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke, to name a few.

Make simple lifestyle changes

It’s serious

Exercise can do wonders for your stress and anxiety levels. Just a half-hour a day a few times a week can make a huge difference in your stress level. The important part is finding an activity you enjoy so you don’t think of it as something you have to do. Whether it’s as simple as a walk through a local park, swimming laps at the gym, or taking a yoga class, a little bit of activity can go a long way.

There have been extensive studies on the effects of stress on a workforce’s overall health and well being. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 54 percent of workers are concerned about health problems due to stress. And, Express Employment Professionals’ recent hiring trends survey showed that 88 percent of company leaders say their current work stress is as high or higher than last year.

It’s a serious problem that companies and their employees are being forced to address.

So, how do you reduce workplace stress?

There are a wide variety of techniques and countless books about eliminating stress in your life. But, the first and most important step is to know the warning signs of stress, which can vary among individuals. In a recent APA study, some of the most common indicators of excessive stress included fatigue, irritability, lack of interest or motivation, head and stomach aches, and insomnia. So it’s important to find a stress-reducing activity that best fits your symptoms and lifestyle to help eliminate tension and keep you healthy and happy.

You can make a significant impact on stress levels by just making a few simple lifestyle changes. Take some time to clean and reorganize your workspace.

Eat a healthy breakfast. Go to bed an hour earlier. Cut back on sweets or sodas. These aren’t major decisions, and you’ll be surprised how little it actually takes to make a noticeable difference in how you feel.

Get some exercise

Use your vacation time

If you have vacation time, don’t be afraid to use it. Taking a few days here and there to escape the daily grind of the work week is one of the best ways to recharge your mind and body. By allowing time to focus on the most important parts of your life, like family and friends, you will return to work more productive and better prepared to handle stressful situations.

If you’re a leader at your company, it’s also important to keep a close eye on the overall stress levels of your employees. When you do notice a spike in

The impact of stress on health and well being can be profound and indiscrimiJulie Nelson is a business developer at Express Employment Professionals in Longview. For stress relief, she enjoys running.

Toutle, WA

FATHER’S DAY FREE SHIRT FOR DAD JOIN US ALL WEEKEND! JUNE 18 & 19 • 11AM - 6PM Call for details/reservations Located inside Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center 15000 Spirit Lake Hwy

360.274.5217 / 360.957.1025

WE ’vE MO vEd !

A New Location To better serve you!

Doug Clay, Wizard of Comfort

Due to phenomenal growth this past year we have moved our offices to a larger more prominent location. Although our address has changed, what remains the same is our competitive pricing, dedication to quality, and the highest levels of customer service.

Visit us at 1146 15th Avenue in Longview.

Take short breaks

The human body wasn’t made to sit in one position and stare at a computer screen for eight hours a day. Make it a point to stand up and take a quick walk around the office every hour or two. Go grab a small, healthy snack. Say hello to a co-worker. Or simply just stand up at your desk and stretch. Find a quick and simple activity you can do throughout the day to get your body moving and break up the monotony.

• Help your employees define development goals to help guide their careers in the right direction.

Bonnie S. Woodruff

WE aRE nOW LOcaTEd On ThE EasT sidE OF 15Th avEnuE bETWEEn FLORida and hEMLOck sTREETs. Call or visit in person or online. We’re available seven days a week, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, with no extra charge for weekend appointments.

TUNE UP TIME! Tune-Up Your A/C or Heat Pump only $72.

Escrow Officer, LPO

Office: 360-425-2950 Fax: 360-425-8010 Toll Free: 877-425-2950 Email: Bonnie@cascade~title.com Web: www.cascade~title.com

1425 Maple Street Longview, WA 98632

$189 Value. Limited time offer.

WA LIC# YOURCCE901J9

We look forward to hearing from you!

360-423-1924 • TOLL FREE 1-877-706-7272 • www.72degreesac.com

PAGE 10

• JUNE 2011

around the

WATER COOLER “I enjoy the camaraderie with fellow business owners because no matter what type of service or industry we’re in, we all have a common interest and it’s good to get together.”

~Dr. Darren Bowlby Chiropractor Bowlby Chiropractic Center, Longview “It’s the connection with people. . . the soul of our business community that really makes Longview. These small business owners are the heart and soul of the community and it’s what makes Longview such a great place for children . . . and that’s my passion.”

~Suzanne Cusick Superintendent, Longview School District

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

Question: Why do you belong to the Chamber of Commerce? Which benefits have been most valuable for your business?

“It’s a choice to participate, to be actually involved in the community. Through the Chamber, I get an opportunity, a platform, to meet and speak with other businesses.”

“Chamber membership is part of our community involvement. We’re involved in the business community.

We’re part of the economy of Longview.”

~John Anderson Consultant BeCause Business Resources, Inc. Longview

~Barry Dahl Attorney/Shareholder Walstead Mertsching,PS Longview “The Chamber is a good organization. They introduced me to a lot of people who helped medevelop my business.”

~Leroy Nelson Founder, Chairman of the Board Columbia River Floor Covering Rainier/Longview “Around the Water Cooler” is a regular feature of Kelso-Longview Business Connection. Watch for our roving reporter this month at a water cooler near you.

Utilize I.T., Inc. Computer Services • Business Networking & Service • Mobile Workforce • Security & Backups • Computer/Laptop Repairs • New Systems & Upgrades

Since 1998

www.UtilizeIT.com

820 Ocean Beach Hwy. Suite 216 • 360-423-8200

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

2011-2012

Lower Columbia Professional Committee

OFFICERS Frank McShane, Chair Cascade Networks, Inc. Dale Lemmons, Immediate Past Chair, Interstate Wood Products Jerri Henr y, Treasurer Futcher - Henry Group Mike Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching

Aaron Dawson, Opsahl Dawson & Co.

Board of Directors

DIRECTORS John Anderson, Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC

Carey Mackey, Red Canoe Credit Union Darren Goan, American Red Cross David Schaafsma De De Brill, Northwest Continuum Care Center Erik Guttormsen, Fibre Federal Credit Union

David Campbell, City of Longview

Gretchen Taylor, Stewart Title

Sarah Cave, PeaceHealth Diane Craft, Koelsch Senior Communities

Jason Meunier, Twin City Bank

Joel Hanson, KLOG/KUKN/TheWAVE

Jennifer Dawson, Opsahl Dawson & Co.

Mike Julian, Kelso Theatre Pub Bianca Lemmons, Cowlitz County Title

Julie Laird, Bicoastal Media

Julie Rinard, Community Home Health & Hospice George Raiter, Cowlitz County Commissioner

Keri Verhei, Elder Options

Denny Richards, City of Kelso Spencer Partridge, PNE Construction & CCS

Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title Nick Lemiere, Edward Jones Nita Rudd, Cascade Title Company Russ Chittock – Russ Chittock American Family Ins. Agency

Ted Sprague, Cowlitz Economic Development Center Rick Winsman, Kelso Longview Chamber

Stephanie Bullock, Heritage Bank

Neil Zick, Twin City Bank

Steve Moon, Foster Farms

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce 1563 Olympia Way • Longview, WA 98632

Membership Application

Business Name:

Street Address:

City, State, Zip:

PAGE 11

Chamber Ambassador Committee Russ Chittock American Family Insurance Lisa Allen Banda's Bouquets Nick Lemiere Edward Jones Sherr y Bean Employers Overload D'Dee Douglas Express Employment Professionals Kerr y Riley Futcher-Henry Group Diana Loback Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing Jeni Quiriconi HeartSong Massage Jim Zonich Kelso Hardware Marine Tom Iverson KLOG/KUKN Diane Craft Koelsch Senior Communities Susan Sherwin Longview Memorial Park Carrie Medack National City Mortgage Kathy Kyllonen NW Continuum Care Center Aman Wasu Prudential NW Properties Pam Fierst Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center Walt Naze, Retired Shannon Werner, Sign Smart USA Myrna Rak, SignMasters, Inc. Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title Glenda Ashe, Twin City Bank Jason Meunier, Twin City Bank Donna Hughes, WorkSource

• JUNE 2011

MARK YOUR CALENDARS June 1 Education Foundation Committee June 2 Quarterly Membership Meeting – State of the County June 13 Member2Member Monthly Mailing Deadline June 14 Longview Downtowners June 16 Ambassador Committee June 17 KLCC Annual Golf Classic June 21 Business After Hours - PeaceHealth June 27 Government Affairs Committee Aug 6 Squirrel Fest - Grand Prix Criterium Terry/Taylor Sale August 24 MEGA MIXER Every WEDNESDAY Your Chamber Connection KEDO AM1400 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

FREE COUNSELING & GUIDANCE FOR SMALL BUSINESS (existing or being formed) Provided by S.C.O.R.E., an adJunect of the Small Business Administration.

Counseling is by appointment only.

Call 360.699.1079

Mailing Address (if different from above): Street Address:

City, State, Zip:

Telephone:

OFF TO THE RACES

CYCLE on the CIRCLE

Company Website: Primary Contact: Title:

Contact Email:

Membership cost is based upon number of employees and level of membership.

Gold Circle (Premium): Business name highlighted in directory, 50% off mailing label purchase, brochure insertion in relocation packets, special recognition plus Basic.

Basic: Direct marking through business mailing lists, referrals to visitors, potential new residents & businesses, listing in the annual Preferred Business Directory, monthly newsletter to keep you informed, networking opportunities, Advocacy through action committees, Candidate Forums and Action Alerts.

(Call Chamber office for specific benefits)

Costs for Membership: Number of Employees 1-4 5-10 11-15 16-20

Gold Circle $356 $394 $442 $485

Basic Membership $238 $264 $292 $323

One-time enrollment fee $50

Contact the Chamber office at 360-423-8400 for detailed explanation of benefits at each level and exact costs

The 2nd Annual Longview Grand Prix Criterium is gearing up for August 6th at the Civic Circle.

Last year the race attracted 100 professional cyclists from far and wide. There were racers from as far away as New Zealand, Arizona, California, Oregon, Canada and Utah! Eleven races throughout the day, along with a free kids’ race is sure to draw a nice crowd.

But thats’s not all — this year the Longview Grand Prix Criterium is partnering with the 1st Annual Squirrel Festival, a family-friendly day of games, music and fun in the same location!

This year we expect even more cyclists; the pros loved the fast, flat track! And we have our own pro racing team this

2010 Race • Photo by Don Wiitala

year — TEAM HIGHLANDER — composed of local cyclists who will be racing this year!

Sonsorship opportunities are available and with the partnership of events it’s a two- for-one! Please contact Janice Forbes at Highlander Cycling, 360-353-3790, for more information. Get your name associated with the newest and most exciting event of the cycling season!

PAGE 12

• JUNE 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

INDUSTRIAL SERVICES • Industrial Cleaning • Emergency Response • Disposal • Sweeping

Hi-Rail/Industrial

Air-mover/Industrial

Jet Rodding/Hydro excavating and sewer cleaner

Sweeper

• Hydroblasting • Remediation • Environmental Construction 55 International Way Longview, WA

Toll Free: 1-888-423-6316 www.pnecorp.com/ccs.html

Call today to see how we can help you.

Toll free: 1-888-423-6316

We’re response ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week