CHAMBER 0911

KELSO LONGVIEW

Vol. 3, No. 8 • Sept. 2011

Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce • Longview Downtowners

Heritage Bank named “Best Workplace” by Puget Sound Business Journal

around the

WATER COOLER In planning for the holiday season (or 4th Quarter), what are your expectations compared to 2010 and how are you positioning to meet these projections?

“Heritage Bank is honored to be a Gold Award Winner. . .” said president/CEO Brian Vance in a press release. “Winning this award in light of all that has occurred at the Bank during this past year is exceptionally gratifying.”

The corporation acquired two banks, integrated more than 100 new employees and opened new branches in Gig Harbor, Puyallup and Kent. “We are fortunate to have a quality team of employees, who serve our customers and our communities with excellence,” Vance said. The award resulted from a culture that Vance said the entire Heritage Bank staff embraces. The work environment fosters customer service, teamwork, strong communication, and career opportunities.

The Puget Sound Business Journal’s Washington’s Best Workplaces was launched in 2007 to identify and recognize best practices in the hiring and retention of outstanding employees. In an extensive process, employees in nominee-companies across the state completed surveys leading to the naming of finalists in four different categories. Nearly 200 companies were nominated with 85 companies selected as finalists, based on employee benefit offerings, leadership culture, and work/life balance philosophies.

Established in 1927, Heritage Bank has been working to build a solid and trusted bank, growing from modest beginnings to a full service community bank with 27 branches extending from Vancouver/ Portland to Seattle/Bellevue.

Heritage Bank gives back through a combination of monetary contributions and volunteer efforts to strengthen the core of their communities. Heritage Bank was the Silver Award Winner in 2009 and the Bronze Award Winner in 2010.

Y

ou are invited to the Chamber’s third quarter membership luncheon, “State of the Cities.” Kelso City Manager Denny Richards and Longview City Manager Bob Gregory will highlight recent accomplishments and future plans for the two cities.

The event will be held Thursday, September 22, 11:45 am – 1:30 pm at the Cowlitz Regional Conference Center.

STATE OF THE CITIES

The business com- Thurs, Sept. 22 11:45–1:30 munity asked for Cowlitz Regional the “State of Conference the Cities” Center meetings, offering an annual comprehensive summary of where our communities are going, presented by those whose responsibility it is to get us there.

City leaders will showcase their accomplishments and present a vision of what the future holds for the area’s development, providing insight into the strength of our economic base, real estate markets, financial institutions and educational challenges.

PAID

Centralia, WA 98531 Permit #26

Presorted Std U.S. Postage

See pages 8, 14

Olympia, WA, August 17, 2011 -- Heritage Financial Corporation, parent company of Heritage Bank, announced that the Puget Sound Business Journal honored Heritage Bank with the 2011 Gold Award in the Large Business Category of Washington’s Best Workplaces.

QUARTERLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Cost is $30 for Chamber members, $45 for non-members; the event is open to the public. Make reservations by calling the Chamber 360-423-8400.

1563 Olympia Way • Longview, WA 98632

•••

Mega Mixer 2011 draws crowd on warm summer evening The Kelso Longview Chamber would like to take a moment to thank everyone involved with making our 2nd Annual MEGA MIXER a mega success!

Thank you to the chambers of Castle Rock, Kalama and Woodland as well as the Longview Downtowners, for partnering with us to help promote to their members and community – creating a larger networking opportunity to the businesses.

We couldn’t have such a great event without our business community stepping up and being sponsors. Thank you to all of our sponsors and donors of all our raffle prizes and goodie bag items.

The full list may be found on page 14.

And we really want to thank all of our vendors and attendees, as we couldn’t be a success with you!

Mark your Calendars for August 21, 2012!

page 10

IN THIS ISSUE Welcome New Members . . . 2-3 Business Toolbox . . . . . . . . . 3 EGT, Skyline Steel . . . . . 4 & 7 Around the Watercooler 8 &14 President’s Message . . . . . . . 9 Business Briefs . . . . . . . . . 11 Mark Your Calendar . . . . . . 14

PAGE 2

• SEPTEMBER 2011

WELCOME BASKETS

are a great way to get to know our newest members of the Kelso Longview Chamber. We fill the baskets full of useful information and gifts from other Chamber members, and then deliver to new members.

If you’d like to contribute items for the baskets, call the Chamber office, 360-423-8400.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS Ocean Beach Self Storage

Story by Sue Piper Photo by Perry Piper

Steve Lervik and Butch Henry ~ at the right place at the right time

A

s in most good partnerships, Steve Lervik and Butch Henry were friends before they got into business together. But their relationship evolved and today, they own several commercial properties and a thriving enterprise, Ocean Beach Self Storage.

Frontier Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center

The two of them make good partners, Lervik said.

Welcome, New Chamber Members!

The Bistro Restaurant and Wine Club

They first met at the Longview Country Club where they are members.

They bought some local apartments together and then the former Charlie’s restaurant building, most recently occupied

by Stewart Title and now available for lease.

“We both had a common interest of investing in local properties.” And there was another important tie.

Steve Lervik and manager Mitzi Sparks at Ocean Beach Self Storage, 5800 Ocean Beach Hwy, near Baker’s Corner, Longview.

“Our wives are friends.”

Cindy Lervik is customer service manager cont next page

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

OB Self Storage

cont. from page 2

at NORPAC and Jerri Henry is a CPA in Longview.

Part of Mildred Herold’s legacy Lervik and Henry bought their latest property from Gary Herold, who inherited it from his mother, longtime local real estate broker Mildred Herold.

Located at 5800 Ocean Beach Highway near Baker’s Corner, the property was “a natural” for expansion. At that point, Butch Henry, who owns H & S Enterprises, a property management firm he operates with his sons, took on management of the complex for Gary Herold.

Later, when Herold wanted to sell it, Lervik explained, he and Butch entered the picture.

“We were in the right place at the right time.”

The perfect on-site manager Ocean Beach Self Storage employs a live-in manager, Mitzi Sparks, who is a perfect fit for the job, Lervik said.

“She just loves the business. She loves her job. She says she wants to die working there.” Well, not die on the job, he noted, but keep the job all her life.

“She’s the face of the business, she’s people-oriented and very friendly.” The day-to-day tasks at the complex keep Sparks busy and she does a great job.

With great results.

“I think it’s the nicest storage place in Cowlitz County.,” Lervik said. “That’s the feedback we get from people.”

“We have a great variety of sizes,” he said of the facility. “It’s on a big piece of property with lots of room between the units.” The property features big, wide driveways and an all-asphalt surface.

“The property is especially conducive to fleet parking,” he explained.

PAGE 3

Gary Herold once leased space to JA Cleaning, which operated with several shifts of workers — many of them women — using the company stored on the property. “People left their cars in a secure area,” Lervik said, making it convenient and safe for employees’ after-dark coming and going.

Behind the scenes of the “front office work,” Henry now handles the overall maintenance coordination, while Lervik is in charge of marketing the units.

Why they joined the Chamber “I’ve been involved now in enough stuff . . . I’ve gone to Chamber After Hours and I enjoy meeting more local business people,” Lervik explained.

Henry, 49, who was already a Chamber member under H & S Enterprises, agreed with Lervik that Ocean Beach Self Storage should join the Chamber.

Lervik, 56, is a 25-year Weyerhaeuser employee who started as a chemical engineer and retired as site coordinator at the mill. He is an avid golfer and part-time consultant in project scheduling. He is upbeat about the local area’s economy.

“Things will get LOTS better in this town,” he said.

“Growth will move up this way . . . will fill in around Woodland and Kalama.

More people will be living here and driving that way.”

As for what’s in their own business’ future, Lervik said he and Henry would like to host a Chamber After Hours at the complex. There should be ample space for a massive mixing and mingling. And meeting Mitzi.

Meanwhile, next time you see Lervik or Henry at a Chamber event or around town, welcome them as new Chamber members. See if they are wearing their “Ocean Beach Self Storage” hats.

•••

Kelso Longview

Chamber

of

Commerce Team

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

business

Fleet parking

Welcome, New Chamber Members!

TOOLBOX

By Susan Hoosier

Lack of insurance is no laughing matter!

I

had hoped to find a humorous opening to this article on insurance but realized that lack of insurance, in the business world, is not a laughing matter. Business owners, particularly those who are relatively new, will frequently underestimate the importance of having adequate insurance coverage. Business owners who have operated for many years may wrongfully assume that their insurance agent will surely know how to deal with the business’ changing needs.

First of all, choosing a good insurance agent is one of the first steps in reducing risk. A good insurance agent is every bit as important as a good accountant and a good attorney. If you want to develop a long-term relationship, then do your homework upfront. Here are some important considerations: Check out the reputation of the companies that are being considered. How do they handle claims? Will they patiently respond to questions? Are other business owners happy with the companies that are being considered? Word of mouth references are important but do not accept the reference without doing some important homework before making a commitment for coverage.

Ask a lot of questions and read the fine print on all documents. Do not make assumptions that coverage for a certain occurence will be in place without asking questions and without reading the proposed policy.

Home-based businesses need to be especially clear that the homeowner’s policy will remain in force. It would be distressing to find out, after a major event, that operating a home-based business was contrary to policy guidelines.

Is the insurance agent willing to guide the business through the risk assess-

Kelso Visitor Center

Connie Parsons, Center Director Lois Sigurdson, Center Assistant

Ready To Work Goodwill Luncheon

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

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 bertjepson@hotmail.com Ad Deadline: 25th each month

Bonnie S. Woodruff 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

• SEPTEMBER 2011

September 13, 2011 11:30am - 1pm Cowlitz Regional Conference Center Program Participant Rewards & Business Awards Support a Dream.

CHANGE A LIFE.

To purchase tickets or sponsor a table, contact Tonya Muri at 800.584.7980 or via email:

longviewrsvp@tacomagoodwill.org

ment process and sensitive to the business’ financial parameters so that the insurance products that are recommended make sense?

Is your agent proactive about meeting on an annual basis to review your insurance coverage and the changing needs of the business? Every business should do an annual review of insurance coverage but an insurance agent that proactively contacts the business owner, on an annual basis, is an asset for the busy business owner.

The following are the most common types for most businesses: General Liability – Watch out for exclusions Umbrella liability – This coverage is intended to fill in any gaps left by other forms of insurance.

Property/casualty Business interruption Worker’s Compensation Disability Insurance Life Insurance The types of assets/events that you may want to cover are: Buildings and other structures; leased or owned. (Note: You may want to ask the question about coverage in the event that building codes require that any building that is rebuilt or repaired meet current code standards.)

Furniture, equipment and supplies Leased equipment Inventory Money and securities Valuable papers, books and documents Data processing equipment and media Mobile property, such as automobiles, trucks and construction equipment Signage, fences and other outdoor property not attached to a building Intangible property (goodwill, trademarks, etc.)

The Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s office provides many resources, and information that can be valuable to business owners. Take the time to become familiar with their website: www.insurance.wa.gov/companies/index.shtml ••• Susan J. Hoosier, a commercial loan officer for Red Canoe Credit Union, can be contacted at 360-578-5276 or shoosier@ redcanoecu.com.

PAGE 4

• SEPTEMBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

FEEDING THE WORLD, BOOSTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY

“What we are doing here will be great for the community,” says EGT facility manager Story by Sue Piper • Photos by Perry Piper

J

ust two years after the 2009 groundbreaking for the first new American grain terminal in 25 years, EGT is ready to roll. However, there is a glitch. “If it wasn’t for the labor problems,” said facility manager Jerry Gibson, “we’d be in business now.”

EGT invested $200 million in its leased site at the Port of Longview, installing 10 miles of train tracks, a barge unloading dock and technologies like telescoping spouts, an automated weight system and an air conveyor belt system. The company says its state-of-the art export grain terminal will offer new opportunities for American farmers and new employment for highly-skilled American workers along the Columbia River, plus generate impressive new tax and Port revenues.

However, the ILWU (Longshoremen’s union) is asserting a right to all production and maintenance jobs on Port property and EGT operations have been stalled by the standoff. The matter is set to go to trial next spring. cont next page

Jerry Gibson at EGT’s site at Port of Longview; Rainier, Oregon, is on the Columbia River’s opposite bank.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

EGT Export Grain Terminal

PAGE 5

cont from page 4

“We’re not anti-union and we support familywage jobs,” said Gibson, who moved to Kalama from New Orleans. “We built this place and we know how to manage it most effectively.” The company initially talked with ILWU representatives and has since contracted with General Construction, which will staff the facility with local members of Operating Engineers Local 701. (See Message from EGT’s CEO, sidebar, this page.) Now in a testing phase, the facility is poised to begin fulfilling its role in the world marketplace.

EGT will pay $2 million in annual property taxes; $14 milion was generated in sales and B & O taxes through the construction phase, which employed many local sub-contractors.

The United State grows a lot of grain, Gibson explained, with an excess of corn, soy beans and wheat. Twenty percent of the national corn crop is exported. The primary places for exporting grain are the mouth of the Mississippi River and the Pacific Northwest, which hosts 10 facilities on the Columbia River and Puget Sound.

Why Longview?

All the other sites use older elevators, which can be upgraded, Gibson said, but “by (EGT’s) being a new site, it’s easier to make improvements and include new, innovative technologies.”

Their Goals EGT is owned by Bunge North American, along with ITOCHU (Japanese) and STX Pan Ocean (South Korean), who aim to help ensure the food supply for their countries. “The goal is to make money, Gibson said, “that’s what any business does.” But they also want to “help their countries create an avenue for greater food security.”

Certain areas of the world grow a lot more feed and food than they need, including the U.S., Brazil and Argentina, he said. “We compete against those (countries) for these customers (who can’t produce their own grain). Asia in particular has a rising demand.

“The U.S., due to technology (mostly genetics), is growing more and more every year,” Gibson said. “But there is not a big surplus and as the world population grows, it will be a challenge” to meet the need.

A total of about 50 people will work in EGT’s 24/7 operation, Gibson noted. But it’s very lowprofile. Grain will come in by rail and go out by ship or barge. The site accommodates six 110car trains, using a rail corridor which doesn’t cross any public traffic thoroughfares.

“Most people aren’t going to be aware we’re even here.”

“It’s a ‘slam dunk’ for the Port,” Gibson said, with $5–8 million to be generated annually by rental and ship fees. “This is all brand new business.” The Port District is subsidized by taxes collected from local taxpayers, which could be entirely offset by the new revenue if the Port so chooses, he noted.

Three things attracted EGT to Longview: good rail access, access to the Columbia River, with its deep water port, recently dredged to 43-foot draft (the Mississippi River, by comparison, is 48 feet), and a ready-to-develop site. The company also considered other areas along the Columbia River, Gibson said.

“There were other opportunities but we felt in the final assessment . . . you pick the best that’s available. No place is perfect,” he said. “The Port (of Longview) was good to work with.”

Regarding the current labor dispute, he added, “The Port is caught in the middle.”

Rail, truck, Columbia River acces

“This is an ‘economic engine’ for an area that should make it easier for companies, due to the inter-modal ship, rail and truck availability,” he said. “One of the positive things the U.S. has right now is import/export trade. We can leverage that and grow.”

“Longview is in a great place. There is great potential for continued growth,” capitalizing on its prime location and access to the world.

The Pacific Northwest is the closest exchange point between the U.S. and half the world’s population –- China (1.3 billion), India (one billion) and Indonesia, Japan and Korea.

“The trade that can move back and forth . . . a lot of that would want to flow” through our area, he said. “Business and labor and the communities could all grow with that.”

Longview, being a port city, needs to leverage all the positive things . . . they need to go with their strengths,” Gibson said. He is upbeat and optimistic about the future and about EGT’s operations here.

“What we are doing here will be great for the community.”

•••

• SEPTEMBER 2011

A MESSAGE FROM EGT

By Larry Clarke,

CEO

For generations, the Port of Longview has helped deliver American goods to the world, creating opportunities for our workers, farmers and businesses. Today, the Port is poised to make history as home to the first export grain terminal built in the U.S. in more than 25 years.

EGT is ready to contribute to the continued economic success of the Longview community. By the time construction is complete, EGT will already have paid $11 million in Washington State sales tax alone. Once fully operational, EGT will more than double the number of vessels calling at the Port of Longview annually, creating about 50 new full-time jobs for local workers.

Unfortunately, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) is trying to prevent this facility from coming online through recent unlawful activity and violence. The community deserves to know the facts and have some much-needed context so that we can all move past these violent episodes and continue on the path of economic growth.

The EGT facility embodies the future of the grain handling industry. It was built with state-of-the-art technology to ensure EGT can compete not only with other terminals in the U.S. but with other countries. EGT was not built to accommodate a labor agreement.

To be clear, EGT never agreed, nor are we contractually obligated, to employ ILWU labor. Regardless, EGT reached out to the ILWU for a preliminary conversation in early 2010. We asked them to consider an arrangement similar to what they gave our closest competitor on the Columbia River: Kalama Export.

The ILWU refused and instead demanded that EGT consider numerous costly and inefficient terms, including a surcharge in excess $20 per hour per employee to fund the international union’s critically underfunded pension.

The ILWU would also mandate multiple work stoppages during shift changes, eliminating the very efficiencies in loading and unloading that this facility was designed for. What’s more, the ILWU made clear that they would refuse any request for a consistent team of employees, solely assigned to the EGT facility, which would be critical to maintaining an efficient and safe operation.

As a result, EGT explored other options, leading to a long-term agreement with a union contractor, General Construction, to staff our facility with local members of the International Union of Operating Engineers. General Construction and the local Operating Engineers are trained and experienced on the equipment in the EGT facility.

We are working to complete the testing phase of the development. And we are eager to bring the facility online this fall, not only so American farmers have better access to the export markets, but so that the Longview community starts to see the economic benefits that will flow from EGT’s operations. Our facility will provide $2 million in property taxes every year, benefitting the Longview School District, Cowlitz Road District, and the County General Fund. Our lease and other payments will provide the Port of Longview with up to $8 million in revenue each year. Officials estimate these payments alone will put the port on a sustainable financial footing, eliminating its need for subsidies from local taxpayers.

Right now, the only thing stopping the Longview community from seeing the benefits of EGT’s investment is the ILWU. The sooner they stop their illegal tactics, the sooner we can get to work providing good, family wage union jobs for local workers and tax relief for Longview citizens.

PAGE 6

• SEPTEMBER 2011

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.

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KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

POSITION AVAILABLE The Kelso Longview Chamber is seeking to fill the full-time position of President/Chief Executive Officer.

Location: The cities of Kelso and Longview are located in Southwest Washington along the scenic Columbia River, 50 miles north of Portland, Oregon and 125 miles south of Seattle. The area boasts Weyerhaeuser, Longview Fibre Paper & Packaging and NORPAC as major industries.

St. John Medical Center and Lower Columbia College provide services to the region.

Education/Experience: The successful candidate will have experience in Board Development, Staff Management, Membership Recruitment and Retention, Fundraising, Event Planning, Public Speaking, Volunteer Committees, Government Relations, Economic Development, Media Relations, Publications, Long Range and Strategic Planning, Budget and Finance, and ability to work with City Government.

Qualifications: The successful candidate will be an inspirational leader with a high energy level who takes initiative and gets things done. This individual needs to be a strategic thinker who is able to transform vision and ideas into action. The ideal candidate needs to be outgoing, personable and a compelling spokesperson who is able to articulate the value of the Chamber to diverse audiences. The right candidate will have a passion for working with the business community. The President/CEO will be a relationship builder who understands the interplay of political and business needs and is able to build collaborative and strategic partnerships.

The candidate should have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in non-profit management, business administration, marketing or related field. The selected individual will have at least three to five years’ experience in a senior management role at a non-profit organization, preferably a chamber or association environment. He or she will possess strong budgeting and finance experience, good business judgment, strong management skills, and the ability to speak before small to large groups. It is preferable to have graduated from the WACE Academy or US Chamber Institute program.

Compensation: Salary is dependent on experience; benefits plus retirement are offered.

To apply: Submit a cover letter and resume via e-mail to: rwinsman@kelsolongviewchamber.org Deadline for receipt of applications: 5:00pm PST on Friday, Sept. 23, 2011.

THE LOWER COLUMBIA PROFESSIONALS

“To promote and encourage the next generation of business and its professionals through community involvement, networking and education.”

The LCP’s monthly networking event, generally the last Thursday of the month and hosted at different Chamber member locations, is not your typical networking event. The LCPs have created some very clever networking games around themes. to interact in a comfortable and fun environment. . . there is a networking poker game, Bingo, Monopoly, Football, NASCAR: A Night at the Races, 007, and even a Upcoming LCP Events mystery person game, where you LCP Tailgate Party • Sept 29 ask people questions to come up Hosted by: Bicoastal Media with who you think might be the mystery person. There are always Bunc-Off with LCP • Nov 10 Hosted by: Red Lion Hotel & donated door prizes. These networking events are becoming more and Conference Center more popular and attracting not just the younger business generation, but also the “young at heart.”

Education is a very important focus for the Lower Columbia Professionals. Its Scholarship Fund is designed to help three local “young potentials” looking to further their business education. Over the past three years, LCPs awarded $3,750 in scholarships. This is not an easy task, but the LCPs are a very determined committee! In March 2008, they created an event titled “Bunc-Off with LCP,” hosted at the Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center in Kelso.

If your business is interested in supporting LCP, we are currently booking hosts for 2012 and accepting raffle prize donations for the Bunc-Off. For more information you can always contact the Chamber team at 360.423.8400 or follow the LCP group on Facebook at www.facebook. com/LCProfessionals

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 7

• SEPTEMBER 2011

From left: Skyline Steel CEO Laurent De May, Port of Longview Executive Director Ken O’Halloren, Arcelor Mittar CEO Philippe Darmayan, Gov. Christine Gregoire, and Port Commissioner Darold Dietz.

Strong as steel

Governor, dignitaries celebrate Skyline Steel’s grand opening in Longview

Story by Sue Piper Photos by Perry Piper

“

“

The Port of Longview really is a rock star,” said Governor Christine Gregoire, referring to the Port’s high performance over the last three years. “Congratulations . . . for a job well done. . . Longview has shown once again that it has the vision that is strong as steel.”

The occasion was Skyline Steel’s July 28th grand opening on its new, 35-acre site within the Port of Longview. The manufacturing facility will employ 60 workers to produce rolled and welded pipe, spiralweld pipe and threaded bar.

“It means 65 new jobs and that’s very important to Longview and to the State,” Gregoire said.

“It says a lot about Longview, and especially the Port.

“It’s because of infrastructure,” Gregoire said. “To those who doubt that we need to invest in infrastructure, this is an example of where infrastructure leads to family wage jobs.”

Washington State will use Skyline Steel’s products, said Gregoire, in projects such as the Alaska Way viaduct and the new Columbia River crossing.

Skyline Steel chose Longview as part of its expansion in Western U.S. and Canada. CEO Laurent DeMay said Skyline’s products —used in bridges, ports, retaining walls, underground parking garages, environmental barrier walls and wind towers — are “long and heavy, not so easy to move.” Longview’s railway, waterways and I-5 access fulfilled the company’s needs, he said for “location, location, location.”

Not just the vision is strong The floor will need to support a lot of weight, so was built “15 inches thick with a lot of rebar in it,” explained David Callantine, plant manger. “This is high profile, our best facility . . . a world class facility.” And it will be busy.

Highway products are mandated to use American products, explained Michael Chefren, Skyline’s director of operations. “That helps.” On opening day, the facility already had “a backlog of orders – enough work to take us through the fall.” Many of Skyline’s local employees were previously unemployed.

“My cousin ( a new hire) was out of work,” noted Jeremy Behrend, maintenance supervisor. Skyline’s opening in Longview, “should be a boost of confidence (for the community). They’re definitely looking to expand. We’ve got all 35 acres and they want to use ‘em.”

Skyline’s parent company, Arcelor Mittal, is the world’s largest steel manufacturer, employing 300,000 worldwide, “I very much like the Northwest,” said Philippe Dormayan, the company’s CEO. “I think this is the place to see nature. In Europe it is crowded; we cannot see nature.” A Paris resident, he appreciates the 9-hour direct flight to Seattle and

Michael Chefren, Skyline Steel’s director of operations, stands inside a huge pipe used for making road and bridge supports.

was involved in picking the new site. Longview had the best logistics for the company’s needs, he said.

Presenting a special 18-inch long steel pipe “memento” to Port Commission President Darold Dietz, Dormayan said, “Our commitment is as strong and heavy as this piece.”

Celebrating the grand opening of “our newest Port partner . . . is amazing.” Dietz responded. Usually caught up with policy matters, he said, “This week I was reminded of why I took this job.”

Thanking Skyline Steel for the confidence and commitment it has shown in Longview and the State of Washington, Port of Longview executive director Ken O’Hollaren said, “We look forward to a long-term partnership which will serve us and our community for many years to come.”

•••

PAGE 8

• SEPTEMBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

around the

WATER COOLER

Question: Are you expecting business

volume to be less, the same, or more than last year? How are you positioning your business to meet that projection in the coming holiday season or 4th Quarter?

“We’re expecting a continuation of the same until we have responsible government and fiscally conservative representation.”

Dean Piotrowski Commercial Banking Officer, Columbia Bank, Longview “It’s going to pick up based on historical data and information we have. People with RVs bring them back to storage this time of year. . . we’re advertising.”

Butch Henry, Co-Owner. Ocean Beach Self Storage and H & S Enterprises Longview

“I would expect more business because even through the bad times, we’ve seen business increasing. We are working with new vendors to make our products more accessible.”

Derek Cowan Account Manager More Power Computers Rainier, OR

Cowlitz PUD can help you reduce your electric bill

Our CEEP-Plus Lighting Program offers business customers CASH INCENTIVES to improve inefficient lighting systems.

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

“I don’t think this economy will see a double dip. But in our business we should see electric usage go down due to weather conditions.”

Mark McCrady Commissioner Cowlitz PUD, Longview

See more Watercooler comments, page 14.

“I’m dreading the 4th Quarter. My biggest customer decided to ‘single source.’ Now I’m getting my sales flyers out . .. knocking on doors. It’s what everyone who relies on sales should be doing right now. It’s hard for the small local business to compete with the box stores, Service is what we’re pushing (in order) to shine.”

Michelle Ertzberger Sales Mgr 1st Choice Office Furniture, Chehalis

(formerly also in Longivew)

(360) 577-7514 • www.cowlitzpud.org 5800 Ocean Beach Hwy • Longview, WA 98632

“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.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Turning Downtown around

Rick Winsman

Are Business Improvement Areas the answer?

F

erty owners and/or business owners agree to be subject to a tax or fee selfassessed under city tax authority.

orty years ago, suburban shopping malls began to suck the life out of downtowns. Retail businesses and offices in city centers were either closing or moving out to the suburbs. They left behind a huge void: places plagued by crime, deferred maintenance, and empty or abandoned properties. Downtowns were disintegrating and city planners, private developers, preservationists, property owners and city officials were seeking ways to stop the decline.

BIAs are established locally according to state enabling legislation. They operate as non-profit 501(c)4 organizations, public-private partnerships or city agencies. They bring special skills and services to downtowns that local governments are unable to provide.

Today there are an estimated 1,600 downtown business areas in the United States in communities ranging in population from under 1,000 to more than 8 million. Some cities have multiple BIAs, each centered on a different neighborhood or commercial center.

All states, except Wyoming, have legislation enabling BIAs and 48 states have at least one BIA program.

One of the more successful tools developed to draw activity back to Main Street was the Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA). Now, 40 years later, downtowns face a second kind of threat — an economic downturn that just does not seem to want to end. Downtown business and property owners are seeking ways to promote the Downtown Core and once again draw new business and people to Main Street. With the completion of Longview’s Hyett/Palma study and looking at their recommendations for action that can be taken to accomplish that goal, it is time to take a look at how these BIAs are doing and how they can address today’s challenges.

Utilizing a broader and more collaborative effort for promoting and marketing downtowns and making them clean and safe, BIAs have undertaken creative approaches to downtown revitalization and have been credited with many downtown turn-arounds. When BIAs were first formed in the 1970s and 1980s, their primary activities were removing litter, making the streets safe again and boosting local businesses.

Over the years, BIAs have expanded the scope of their activities to include promotion of their unique setting and historic architecture, installation of

What is a BIA? Business improvement areas have several characteristics that differ from other community development and main street revitalization tools. They operate in a clearly defined area within which prop-

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PAGE 9 parks, benches, and specially designed streetscapes, and holding special events.

As strong advocates for downtowns, they pressure local governments for services and help to change the rules to make these areas better places to live and work.

Key to a BIAs’ success are the alliances they form with other downtown boosters. Locally, the Longview Downtowners Association is patterned after one of the more frequent alliances, the Main Street Program of the National Main Street Center. This national group was formed in the 1980s to utilize preservation-based strategies to rebuild “places and enterprises that create sustainable, vibrant and unique communities.” In addition, city planning and community development departments often provide impor-

• SEPTEMBER 2011

tant strategic direction, regulations, technical assistance and infrastructure investments. Chambers of Commerce promote local businesses and attract tourism. Developers rehabilitate properties that provide spaces for new businesses and residents. Social and public service agencies offer assistance with problem behaviors and promote and celebrate cultural diversity.

Today’s Challenges In spite of their past successes, Business Improvement Areas are facing challenges not only from a weak economy and sagging real estate investment, but also from a host of new issues, including vacancies, homelessness and panhandling, graffiti, residential-nightlife conflicts, and that 800 pound gorilla: parking.

PAGE 10

• SEPTEMBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

What’s happenin’

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS BITS

Sharing the Sacrifice ~ Sharing the Investment Downtown Longview consists of approximately 250 businesses and property owners; 85 businesses and friends are members of the Longview Downtowners. The yearly dues collected from these members are not enough to fund their current projects: Downtown Live, 150 sidewalk gardens, cleanup of streets and alleys, Christmas decorations and parade, bike racks, etc. At the August general meeting, the Downtowners adopted a list of shortterm action items from the HyettPalma Action Plan.

sponsors. For more information, contact Jeanene LeRae at 360-414-3103.

Volunteer Stor y 2: Curb appeal Hans Schaufus, one of the founding members of the LOG Task Force, has taken on responsibility for the maintenance of the neglected downtown planters. Hans emailed me:

How can we all effectively

Rick Winsman, President of the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce has a solution. At the August meeting, Rick presented the idea of forming a Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA) A BIA is a special assessment district that business owners establish to revitalize and enhance their neighborhood. The purpose of the BIA is to fund the programs that implement the HyettPalma 5-year Action Plan.

Property owners and businesses vote to tax themselves to fund these projects. The amount of the assessment rate is a sliding scale based on gross annual revenue.

WORK

together FOR POSITIVE

CHANGE

in Downtown

Longview?

The benefit of this idea is that it involves all, rather than just a few, of the downtown business and property owners in the Downtown revitalization effort. For more information about the BIA proposal, contact Rick Winsman at 360-4238400 and plan to attend the September 13 Longview Downtowners general membership meeting (See sidebar, at right and Rick Winsman’s article, page 9).

By Laurel Murphy

NEXT MEETING

Everyone is welcome.

Come mix and mingle.

Refreshments available.

Info: Doug Har vey 360-636-4477

Longview Downtowners 360-423-8403, ext. 401

“On Sunday afternoons I’ve been putting in a few hours cleaning up the planters. I want to get them as nice looking as possible before the 9/10 installation day. I feel curb appeal is an important goal for the downtown face lift.”

Volunteer Stor y 3

The August 6 combination of the 2nd Annual Longview Grand Prix Criterium and 1st Annual Squirrel Festival at the Civic Center was a great success. Thanks to Highlander Cycling, the Longview Sandbaggers and sponsors and volunteers who brought these events to our community.

•••

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To keep up with all the events and happenings, follow us on Facebook: Longview Downtowners

Laurel Murphy has been writing about activities in Downtown Longview for four years and is a volunteer for the Longview Downtowners. She lives in Kalama.

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Longview Founder Robert A. Long’s former office overlooking Commerce Ave.

The Longview Outdoor Gallery will be installing 11 sculptures on Commerce Street the week after Labor Day, with an installation kick-off on September 10. The sculptures will be on display for two years. In Summer 2012, the public will vote on a piece for the LOG task force to purchase and donate to the City of Longview. The task force will then issue another call for artists and select new sculptures for 2013. The LOG Task Force is raising the $30,000 two-year cost for this project from community private donations and

Extend summer with a tropical bouquet

Propsed BIA

Thank you, Hans. Thank you also to Dan and Cindy Ouellette (ZoJo Coffee) who upgraded the planters when Dan was president of the Longview Downtowners and Mic McCoy, who has spent many, many, many hours on improving curb appeal.

Volunteer Stor y 1: LOG

Serving Cowlitz County and Columbia County since 1987

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KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 11

business

Outdoor art coming to Downtown Longview

BRIEFS

Many cities throughout the country have an outdoor sculpture program. Following the example of Puyallup, Port Angeles, Cannon Beach and Lake Oswego, the Longview Outdoor Gallery task force issued a call to artists, which brought in 23 applications.

Judges picked 11 sculptures to be installed Sept.

10 and exhibited for two years.

A “People’s Voice” vote will be held September–December and the favorite piece will be purchased for permanent installation in the Downtown area. All new sculptures on display will be for sale, offering an incentive for artists to participate.

Financial support is needed for this enhancement to Downtown. The program is funded by donations. To make a gift in any amount, contact any of the following: Jeanene LeRae 360-414-3103 Tim Cusick 503-708-0669 Laurel Murphy 360-673-3866 Mary Jane Melink 360-636-2213 Pat Reistroffer 360-636-5125 Hans Schaufus 360-425-7911 Jeff Jolly 360-442-8020 Gitta Makinster 360-430-0506 Allan Rudberg 360-414-3124 Penny Willis 360-430-4329

Sculptures by Mark Andrew, a LOG artist

UNTIL WE TWEET AGAIN Follow Cowlitz DEM via text messaging A while back, the Cowlitz County Department of Emergency Management launched our Blog and Twitter account as part of our social media footprint. But this week, it became even easier to get information from DEM without ever having to establish your own “Twitter Account.” If you are like me and tend to shy away from newfangled technology like smart phones and “the” Twitter, this is a great option for you to stay informed without spending a bunch of money or confusing yourself with apps and data plans and whatever else the kids are doing these days. (Yes, it’s true, inside my Gen-X body lives a crotchety geriatric. Get off my lawn! Pull up your pants! Get a haircut! Get a job!)

Anyway, to receive the DEM Twitter messages directly to your cell phone, simply: 1.Put 40404 on the “To” line of your Text Message 2.Put FOLLOW Cowlitzdem in the ‘Body” of the Text Message To stop receiving our Twitter messages via text messaging, simply text UNFOLLOW Cowlitzdem to the same number.

You will receive an auto-message which confirms you are following or have unfollowed our Twitter feed. It takes about 5 minutes to confirm and receive any tweets from that day. If there are no new tweets that day, it may not send you anything until another tweet is entered.

This is an opt-in service and DEM is not able to determine who does or doesn’t follow us via text messaging. Standard text-messaging rates will apply based on your cell phone carrier and plan.

We are excited about this option because mobile texting is more common than Twitter accounts in most communities, so it is another way for us to get important messages out to our local community in a timely manner.

So, that’s all . . . until we tweet again.

For more information, contact: Jennifer Engkraf, Emergency Management, Cowlitz County Sherriff’s Office, 360.577.3130.

•••

Lisa Nathan, a trust administrator with Heritage Bank in Longview, has been awarded the Certified Trust & Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB), a subsidiary of American Bankers Association in Washington, D.C. She received the national designation based on her experience in the trust industry and her excellence in the field of wealth management and trust.

To qualify for the award, Nathan passed an in-depth examination after Lisa Nathan three years of concentrated studies through the national Institute of Certified Bankers. Classroom education was held by Cannon Financial Institute at Notre Dame University in South Bend, Indiana. Individuals earning the CTFA designation agree to abide by a strict code of professional ethics. All CTFA certification recipients must meet continuing education requirements in their field of expertise.

Nathan has been with Heritage Bank since 2007. She coordinates the bank’s participation in the meals on wheels program benefiting local senior citizens. She is on the board of the Kelso Rotary Club, the Monticello Camera Club, and the Columbia Council of Camera Clubs. She is a longtime Longview resident and volunteers with the Cowlitz County Fair and Rodeo.

• SEPTEMBER 2011

Early Edition Rotary’s Harvest Classic will be held on Saturday, Oct. 1st. All proceeds of the 10k Run/Walk and 1/4 mile PeeWee Fun Run benefit HELP Warehouse, a community action organization which provides food to hungry people in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties. For more info: harvestclassic@ live.com.

Southwest Washington Symphony will kick off the 2011-12 season with its Season Opening Gala on Sunday, October 9th from 5-9pm. Dance to the smooth sounds of Left Coast Jazz and enjoy hors d’oeuvres, dancing, a silent auction, door prizes and a no-host bar.

Tickets are $20. For more info, call Chas Dean, 360-423-1538.

SCORE PRESENTS WORKSHOP FOR STARTING OR EXPANDING YOUR BUSINESS

“Your Business: Plan It, Start It, Grow It” WHEN: Sept. 24 WHERE: Clark College Columbia Tech Center, 18700 SEW Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA. WHO IS IT FOR? Individuals considering starting a small business and current business owners wanting to review business financial and forecasting concepts. The full day session is designed to make sure you get off to the best start possible. You’ll learn how to build a business plan to help you start or grow your business at the lowest risk possible. We’ll discuss identifying and understanding your markets as well as juggling all the tasks required to successfully run a small business.

COST: $85 per attendee. Use a major credit card via PayPal’s secure site.

HOW TO REGISTER Online: www.scorevancouver.org/workshops Look Send info on promotions, expansions, significant for “Workshop Calendar & happenings and personnel achievements to: Registration.” ndavey@kelsolongviewchamber.org Or call 360-699-1079.

Register early, seating is limSubmissions may be edited for length, style and ited. A confirmation email consistency. New members are invited to be interviewed for a “mini-feature” vignette in Kelsowill be sent to you.

GotNEWS?

Longview Business Connection. Call 360-423-8400.

PAGE 12

• SEPTEMBER 2011

President’s Message / Downtown Longview cont. from page 9

1. The Changing Retail Environment Despite the continued call for a new Sears or Penny’s or Old Navy in our downtown core, the days of anchor stores downtown that attracted other stores and restaurants and brought the shoppers in are long gone. Even the specialty stores that replaced many of these retailers when they moved to the malls have retailored their business plans and relocated to higher foot traffic count locations, leaving BIAs to ponder the future of retailing in a downtown environment.

Nevertheless, there are promising developments in downtown retailing that BIAs are guiding, including the emergence of “Shop Local” and “Farm to Table” campaigns that support patronage of locally-owned and independent businesses and locally-produced food. These initiatives reflect a growing interest nationwide in defining and marketing a community’s unique character and assets — to contrast with the blandness and sameness of regional malls and suburban strip developments.

Roberta Gratz, an award-winning journalist and urban critic, refers to this as a time for “rebirth of local opportunities” and predicts that big projects are not going to be the savior of small-town downtowns, but rather the smaller, deliberate steps of local people.

It appears that campaigns supporting local businesses and products are having some results. Our own Shop Local – It Matters! program showed that more shoppers deliberately sought out local businesses in the 2010 holiday season than in the previous year. There is a resurgence of farmers markets locally and some of our restaurants promote local vegetables, cheese, meat and fruit now as more and more consumers demand better, safer, organic, and locally-produced food.

Another promising development is the reuse of large, vacant downtown spaces for art studios, incubator businesses, and showrooms that become the new anchors in downtowns.

Examples nation-wide demonstrate the “thinking outside the box” approach of colleges creating classrooms in vacant downtown buildings, businesses converting vacant bank buildings into offices, and non-profit art groups transforming old downtown buildings into places for education in the visual arts.

2. Problem Behaviors Problem behaviors within the downtown core area, including vagrancy, panhandling, drug dealing, and homelessness, deters visitors and residents. Unfortunately, downtowns are also the places where social services, including shelter, food, health care and counseling, are located to serve these populations. The challenge for the downtown district is how to remain a center for all members of the community while minimizing the intrusion of problem behaviors.

One approach to problem behaviors utilized

by BIAs is a street outreach program.

Programs such as Downtown Ambassadors, City Guides, and Community Policing go a long way in addressing problems in a city’s small downtown. These programs put skilled workers and volunteers on the street to connect people to community services that may assist their needs and deter problem behaviors.

3. Graffiti Larger cities have always been addressing problems associated with graffiti. But now even small towns are having to deal with these “artists.” This is a challenge for BIAs with limited resources, but businesses know that they must respond promptly and effectively ­­­— preferably within 24 hours.

4. Residential Growth in the Downtown A positive development in recent years is the growth of permanent residents of all incomes in downtowns. Many come seeking more convenient lifestyles where they can walk to shops, services and entertainment while downsizing their living spaces. Young people look for proximity to nightlife and entertainment.

Although many BIAs maintain their business focus and don’t have many residents, some are shifting to embrace residential development as a core part of their mission and are welcoming resident members to their boards.

But more residents can bring conflicts for downtowns. Residents complain about late night noise from bars and nightclubs, early daytime noise from construction and garbage collection, public drunkenness, and disorderly conduct.

Residents demand more police presence to address these problems, yet most acknowledge that a lively nightlife is important to the health of the downtown.

Some BIAs have set up committees made up of bar and restaurant owners, music venue owners

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

and operators, police and BIA staff. These committees have been successful in mitigating problems by working with owners and operators of bars and nightclubs and cooperating with police and other members of city government while advocating for a vibrant nightlife in the city.

According to the National Main Street Center, some downtowns are establishing hospitality zones with patrols that are funded by voluntary contributions to address these problems. The national Responsible Hospitality Institute recommends best practices for hospitality zones and provides a network for people who work in these areas.

5. Transportation Challenges Meeting the needs of diverse populations for transportation within a small area that is also a transportation hub can be challenging for downtown districts. Many are determined to make parking plentiful, convenient, and cheap to compete successfully with suburban locations with their acres of free parking. Yet, it is clear that continually expanding parking is not a solution for dense downtowns and that use of alternative modes of transportation must be encouraged.

BIAs are working on long term solutions that promote walking, bicycling, and transit to and around downtowns. To do this, they partner with transit agencies to provide regular bus loops within downtowns that are discounted or free for shoppers, employees, and residents.

They help install and maintain bus shelters. Downtown employers are encouraged to offer bus passes in addition to parking passes. Bicycle racks are part of the streetscape that is regularly provided. Some BIAs operate programs in partnership with local businesses through which bicycles can be rented and bike rental passes can be obtained.

Many of the basic services of BIAs serve to promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment. BIAs clean, sweep and repair sidewalks, make crosswalks safe and accessible, provide adequate lighting, and offer amenities such as benches. They also keep the downtown streets visually interesting for the pedestrian with holiday lighting, store displays, plantings, and wall murals.

6. New Advances in Promotion Many BIAs are utilizing social media to promote and market downtowns, keep them clean and safe, and stretch limited resources. BIAs ask people to become “fans” on Facebook, “tweet” about upcoming

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION events and new store openings on Twitter, and post videos on YouTube. Some even develop “apps” for people to report problems, such as graffiti or public drunkenness, or to locate historic sites, entertainment venues, restaurants, markets, and shops. In addition, social media, such as LinkedIn, have assisted BIAs with networking with each other.

PAGE 13

• SEPTEMBER 2011

About the Author: Rick Winsman has been the President/CEO of the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce for the past six years. In that capacity, he represents the interest of approximately 750 business located in and around the cities of Longview and Kelso. Prior to that, Mr. Winsman served five years as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Santa Clarita, California, where he oversaw the redevelopment of that city’s downtown business core.

Summing Up: Many downtowns have benefited from BIAs over the years, and BIAs still perform an important function today. Their adaptability to changes in retailing, social marketing, diversifying populations, and shifts in national and local economies will be key to their success in the future. So far, even the small BIAs have proven that they can embrace these new challenges and be successful.

With the recommendations coming from the Hyett/Palma study justnow beginning the implementation process, Longview can provide certainty and sustainability to the redevelopment of the core downtown by looking very seriously at creating a BIA within the next 90 days. I think it is very much one of the answers that downtown must be willing to accept to be successful.

Finally.

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• SEPTEMBER 2011

MARK YOUR CALENDARS Sept 1 Ribbon Cutting Event – Progress Center Sept 7 Education Committee Meeting Sept 12 Member2Member Monthly Mailing Deadline Sept 20 Business After Hours – Rockin’ off the River with Stewart Title Sept 21 Lower Columbia Professionals Committee Meeting Sept 22 Quarterly Membership Luncheon – State of the Cities Sept 29 Lower Columbia Professionals – Tailgate Party @ Bicoastal Media TUNE IN 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 adjunct of the Small Business Administration.

Counseling is by appointment only.

Call 360.699.1079

Chamber Ambassador Committee Russ Chittock American Family Insurance Lisa Allen, Banda's Bouquets Nick Lemiere, Edward Jones Sherr y Bean, Employers Overload D'Dee Kuanoni Express Employment Professionals 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

2011-2012

Board of Directors 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 DIRECTORS John Anderson, Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC

Lower Columbia Professionals Committee Aaron Dawson Opsahl Dawson & Co. Carey Mackey Red Canoe Credit Union De De Brill Community Home Health and Hospice Erik Guttormsen Fibre Federal Credit Union

Sarah Cave, PeaceHealth

Gretchen Taylor, Stewart Title

Diane Craft, Koelsch Senior Communities

Jason Meunier, Twin City Bank

Joel Hanson, KLOG/KUKN/TheWAVE Mike Julian, Kelso Theatre Pub

Jennifer Dawson, Opsahl Dawson & Co.

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

Nita Rudd, Cascade Title Company

Ted Sprague, Cowlitz Economic Development Center Rick Winsman, Kelso Longview Chamber Neil Zick, Twin City Bank

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

Water Cooler cont from page 8

Question: Are you expecting business volume to be

less, the same, or more than last year? How are you positioning your business to meet that projection in the coming holiday season or 4th Quarter?

“I think it’ll be up. The weather has been so nice with this late summer. We’re trying to bring businesses, elected officials and cities together in a summit on Oct. 20 to begin a strategic planning process.”

Mark Plotkin Cowlitz County Tourism Director Kelso

“Business will stay the same or drop a bit.

We focus on helping people survive the holiday, and on long-term goals.”

Jeff Jolly, Health Coach Take Shape for Life Longview “I expect that we’re going to do real well, after the roller coaster of emotions we’ve had the last couple of weeks. We can offer people things that give relief from economic stress. We are partnering with some artists, filling some dates, to be able to offer very affordable shows, including the Rainy Day Series.”

Michelle Nusso Director of Development Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, Longview “Our feeling is there is a pent-up demand for new vehicles. As the economy picks up, people will buy new cars.”

John Westerfelt Nissan Executive Manager Columbia Ford Lincoln Hyundai Nissan, Longview

David Schaafsma

David Campbell, City of Longview

Spencer Partridge, PNE Construction & CCS

Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title Nick Lemiere, Edward Jones

Russ Chittock, Russ Chittock American Family Ins. Agency Stephanie Bullock, Heritage Bank Steve Moon, Foster Farms

“We are anticipating more business because there is slightly less fear this year. There has been enough common sense that people have made enough adjustment.”

Patrick Palmer, Owner Copies Today Speedy Litho, Longview

MEGA MIXER 2011 SPONSORS AND RAFFLE PRIZE/ GOODY BAG DONORS cont from page 1 Heritage Bank, Columbia Ford Auto Group, Fibre Federal Credit Union, Capstone Cellars, PeaceHealth/St John Medical Center, Banda’s Bouquets, Busack Electric, The Bistro Restaurant & Wine Club, Koelsch Senior Communities, The Valley Bugler Newspaper, TwinStar Credit Union, Columbia Bank, Heartsong Massage, Pacific Tech Constrution, US Bank, More Power Computers, Fresenius Medical Care, Lemondrop Photography, Columbia

River Reader, Evergreen Healthcare Companies, PNE Construction, Southwest Washington Symphony, Walstead Mertching & Longfibre, 15 East Restaurant, Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, Copies Today Speedy Litho, Lower Columbia College, Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing, Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center, Frontier Rehabilitation & Extended Care Center and First Choice Office Furniture.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

Open for Business Chamber ambassadors, local dignitaries and friends celebrate milestones of local businesses with ribbon cutting and certificate presentation ceremonies.

Please be sure to visit and welcome this recentlyopened new business:

OFFICE DEPOT

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The Bistro

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Wine Tasting Wine Tasting the first Thursday of the month!

Special Events Office Parties Corporate Events Weddings Social After-hours Holiday Parties

1329 Commerce Ave. Downtown Longview Wed–Sat 5 pm ‘til . . . ?

Make your reservations online at www.thebistrobuzz.com or call 360.425.2837

PAGE 15

• SEPTEMBER 2011

PAGE 16

• SEPTEMBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

DEMAND FOR AMERICAN GRAIN IS GROWING.

TOGETHER, WE’LL BE READY TO DELIVER. For generations, the Port of Longview has been a source of pride and an economic engine for our community.

Now, the port is set to make history.

This fall, EGT will open the nation’s first new export grain terminal in 25 years. The state-of-the-art facility will put Longview at the forefront of international trade, more than doubling the number of vessels calling at the Port of Longview, adding new jobs for local union workers and creating new opportunities for American farmers to export grain and for suppliers along the Columbia River to grow their business.

EGT’s operations will generate more than $2 million in property taxes to benefit local schools, and increase the Port of Longview’s revenue by up to $8 million each year, cutting the tax burden on local families.

More jobs, more economic growth, lower taxes for local families. That’s what EGT means for Longview.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.EGTSERVICES.COM/FACTS

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