CHAMBER 1011

KELSO LONGVIEW

Vol. 3, No. 10 • Oct. 2011

Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce • Longview Downtowners

Changing winds in California around the

WATER COOLER Question: What is

your business doing in terms of customer service or customer cultivation to keep a competitive edge during this flat economy?

PAID

Centralia, WA 98531 Permit #26

Presorted Std U.S. Postage

See page 6

Wind power market, new legislation to impact Cowlitz PUD’s revenue and rates

C

owlitz PUD’s upcoming electric rate increase, to be discussed in a public hearing set for Oct. 11, will be higher than the 5–6 percent previously expected, said PUD spokesman Dave Andrew.

IF YOU GO Public Rate Hearing Oct 11 • 7 pm John Searing Auditorium Cowlitz PUD 961–12th Ave. Longview “It would be nice if a lot of people came with open ears to understand the reasons for the rate impact.”

“Based on the numbers,” including Bonneville Power Administration’s increased rates, “the PUD had previously projected a 15% rate increase in 2011,” he said.

Rates increased 9 percent in January, with the rest of the increase postponed in light of the recession.

Now, “There is a developing story . . . about PUD’s ability ~ Dave Andrew to realize the same Cowlitz PUD Manager of kind of revenue Communications & Government Affairs we were banking on from the wind

farm,” said manager Brian Skeahan. And a contract glitch affecting an unpaid $8 million due Cowlitz PUD from California utilities, who bought excess wind power, could add a further punch to the upcoming rate increase.

“It’s going to be more because of this,” Andrews said.

1563 Olympia Way • Longview, WA 98632

Changes in California Legislation (SB2X) recently enacted in California will require more power from renewable resources to be developed within the state, making uncertain the ability of Cowlitz PUD and other out-of-state generators to sell wind resources to California utilities, as in the past.

The law creates three categories of renewable resources and will require California utilities to utilize an increasing amount of in-state produced renewable resources, beginning in 2013 and reaching a plateau of 75% in 2020.

Certain aspects of the new law are still being interpreted by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).

Ballots arriving by mail in October

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce and KLTV host

CANDIDATE FORUMS 2011 Sept 28 • Woodland 6 – 7pm (Location to be

Make your message loud and clear

Later this month, voters will be receiving in the mail the 2011 Election Ballot.

This ballot will cover all local elections for everything from Cemetery Districts to County Commissioners and will include some very important state initiatives.

Everyone is urged to vote.

“I encourage you to open this ballot when you receive it,” says Rick Winsman, Kelso Longview Chamber president. “Look at the positions that are being placed before you, research the candidates and the initiatives, then make informed choices as you mark your ballot.” Ballots must be either mailed or dropped off by November 8, 2011.

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce and KLTV Community Television are helping to make your research a little easier. A series of Candidate Forums (see sidebar) is being conducted to put some of the candidates “in the spotlight,” so you can see and hear just what they have to say and get a sense of their position on the issues that are important to our community.

To give you a head start, review the list of the contested elections throughout Cowlitz County (see “Who’s on the Ballot?”

- page 5)

“Half-way through the game, California legislature changed rules, which has had an impact the market,” said Skeahan. “We exploring options.”

the the on are

Cowlitz PUD has retained the San Francsico law firm, Davis, Wright, Tremaine, to investigate if this is unconstitutional discrimination against the sale of out-of-state RPS (renewable portfolio standards) products into California, and whether it represents a violation of the Interstate Commerce Clause’s prohibition against governmental interference with a contract.

Cowlitz PUD staff attorney Paul Brachvogel has met with CPUC to “intervene”

cont page 5

announced on Kelso Longview Chamber Facebook) Council Position #4 - Marshall Allen - Tony Brentin Council Position #7 - Robert Ripp - Scott Perry Oct 5 - Longview City Hall 6 – 7pm Council Position #1 - Mike Wallin - Steve Moon Council Position #2 - Tom Hutchison - Chuck Wallace Council Position #3 - Cameron Templeton - Ken Botero Council Position #4 - Mikeal Keesee - Don Jensen Oct 12 • Woodland 6 – 7pm (Location to be announced on Kelso Longview Chamber Facebook Mayor - JJ Burke - Grover Laseke For more information contact the Chamber team: Phone: 360-423-8400 Fax: 360-423-0432 kelsolongviewchamber.org

IN THIS ISSUE Welcome New Members . . . 2-3 Business Toolbox . . . . . . . . . 3 Around the Watercooler . . . . 6 President’s Message . . . . . . . 7 Downtown Longview . . . . . . . 8 Business Briefs . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mark Your Calendar . . . . . . 12

PAGE 2

• OCTOBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

NEW CHAMBER MEMBER

business

AFTER HOURS

Marc Roland, pictured here in his homebased winery, recently joined Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce.

Hosted by

CAPSTONE CELLARS AND THE BISTRO RESTAURANT & WINE CLUB KLCC Business After Hours offers an opportunity for business professionals to network with one another while having the time to visit a local business and see first-hand what they have to offer.

Join us at the The Bistro Restaurant & Wine Club 1329 Commerce Avenue, Longview October 18 • 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. $10 for members (until Oct 17) $15 for members (day of and at door) $20 not a member yet Reservations are appreciated For more information, contact Amy at the Chamber, 423-8400

Local winemaker joins Chamber Story by Steve Brock & Sue Piper Photo by Steve Brock

A

fter 12 years making wine commercially at their Longview home, Marc and Nancy Roland are raising their profile and formally linked up with other local businesses.

“We turned the corner when we joined the Chamber,” said Marc Roland, 60.

“Now we’ve realized we’re definitely a

Carports and Fleet Parking WIDE VARIETY OF ENCLOSED AND HEATED UNITS

• • • •

ls ona i s • s ofe E Pr

G A R STO E • R CU r SE u

o Y • • • www.oceanbeachselfstorage.com •

360.577.1760

Secure Fleet Parking Camera Surveillance System Resident Manager Secure Parking for your company vehicles, with 24/7 employee access.

Employee’s car is also secure while using company van.

Carports and RV/Boat/Trailer spaces available (covered with 3 sides) Completely Fenced, Lighted & Paved (100% asphalt) Lots of room between units 24/7 Gate Access RV Sewage Dump Available All rent rates listed on website

Security you can trust • Rates you can afford

business; we’re adjusting and making some changes.”

“Most people don’t even know we exist,” he said. But he intends to gradually change that. “We’re starting to do a little wine tasting by appointment, trying to expose people to our product. We

cont next page

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 3

Roland Wines

money from the quality of wine we’re making.”

charge a fee,” to host winetastings for groups of 6. “It’s worth opening wine for that many people.” Still, it’s not very lucrative.

Award winners

cont from page 2

“Basically we break even.” Roland said the average small winery has a small profit margin. “I don’t know if they make a lot of money,” he said.

We give a lot of wine away,” to community events, Roland said. “It’s just part of the deal. We’re community-oriented.”

“We like having regular customers who buy cases of wine from us,” he said.

“We’re trying to grow the winery based on demand, instead of having a warehouse of wine.” Roland Wines, which produces two releases each year — Winter and Spring — currently has 160 names on its customer list. The wine is available for purchase direct from the winery or at The Brits and JT’s in Longview.

The Rolands are not ready to announce the location, but plan to open a local tasting room soon which will be open Friday afternoons, Saturday and Sunday. They are also getting ready to launch a wine club that will “give us people that commit they’re going to buy wine from us.” Those interested can sign up at rolandwines.com for the newsletter, which is the entry point for the wine club.

“We’re not making money in the winery. Anything we make we put back in trying to build up the quality of the wine and win awards. As our wine gets notoriety we want to eventually make

Roland Wines won “Best in Show” at the 2009 Newport Wine and Seafood event for their 2007 LaChanson de Roland, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. “This wine is of the Bordeaux style,” Roland said, “which we love.”

“We were stunned,” to win such an award, Roland recalled. This year, Roland won the ZINOphile Silver Award for their 2010 Roland Wine Rosé du Sloeia in the Best Rosé category.

Plans include upping the production of rosé, since the last batch sold out in two weeks. “We’re going to get a shapely bottle.” Last year’s rosé was a full-bodied, he said. “We’re betting on that . . . we sold out fast. It’s really good.”

Winemaking: Lots of work.

“Our family helps a lot,” Roland said.

His grandaugther, India Jane Thompson, 12, is a good assistant. “She’s really taken it on. I need somebody (to help). I’m not getting any younger.”

Roland, is teaches in the Kelso Virtual Academy, an Internet school now in its second year. “It is “going real well.

I teach all subjects on the Internet school,” he said, but there is something special about making wine.

“I just love this.”

••• For more information or to receive Roland Wines’ newsletter, visit www. rolandwines.com.

business

• OCTOBER 2011

TOOLBOX

Planning for Failure?

By Susan Hoosier

M

Disastrous strategies for small business owners

aking a mistake can, in fact, create a learning opportunity; whether on a personal level or on a business level. Unfortunately, for small business owners, there is typically little room for error and learning opportunities can become lessons in disaster. That is why this article is dedicated to some of the most common strategies that will ensure financial disaster…just in case you want to plan for failure: • Bookkeeping is done “on the fly,” i.e. either we hope to fit it in to the day, put it on the back burner, expect the spouse to do it, or ignore it all together.

We certainly do not want to pay anyone to keep the books!

• We leave it to the “experts,” i.e. we hate the financial side of the business and we hand it off to a business bookkeeper, to an accountant, or family member and never pay attention to it.

• We wait for the end of the year, when we get our tax return completed, to review the financial health of the business.

• We “trust” our bookkeeper, our family members and our employees to handle money appropriately. For that matter, we give them our passwords to our financial software system so that they can have easy access to all financial information.

• When we approach a lender with a loan request,

we just don’t understand why they keep asking for financial statements.

We provide the Profit and Loss Statement, why the heck do they need a Balance Sheet? What is a Balance Sheet, anyway? My bookkeeper tells me I don’t need one!!

• We make sure that we use every deduction we can so that we do not have any reportable profits at the end of the year. That way, we avoid having to pay any taxes! For that matter, we do not report all of the revenue that comes through the door.

• We do not have the time to learn about the financial side of the business.

After all, our goal is to create revenue and if we create enough revenue, we won’t need to worry about the finances because the finances will take care of themselves!

If any of the above strategies sound familiar to you as a business owner, then I would suggest that your chances of failing, as a small business, are far greater than you might imagine.

However, your chances of succeeding greatly increase as you become more knowledgeable about the financial side of your business and there are simple steps that can be taken to become more knowledgeable: • Purchase some books on small business finance • Use Internet resources to identify what to look for in a bookkeeper; a financial advisor, accountant or CPA.

Kelso Longview

Chamber

of

Commerce Team

Rick Winsman, President/CEO Amy Johnson, Program Director Holly Fischer, Admin. Assistant 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

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

• Ask lenders about how they view business financial information and how to better prepare for future financial requests.

• Tap into training opportunities with the local Small Business Development Center and through Lower Columbia College.

• Be proactive about developing financial skills even if you dedicate only a portion of the day to becoming more knowledgeable in this area.

Financial knowledge results in financial control which results in the likelihood that you are in business for the long haul!

••• Susan J. Hoosier is a commercial loan officer for Red Canoe Credit Union.

She can be contacted at 360-578-5276 or shoosier@redcanoecu.com.

PAGE 4

• OCTOBER 2011

We have

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

qualified workers

to meet your staffing needs.

Call us. We’re here to help.

Industrial, Office Services and professional HR Solutions • Temporary • Evaluation to Hire • Direct Hire • Payroll Services

1208 Washington Way • Suite 140 • Longview

360•414•1200

www.expresspros.com

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PUD Rates

cont. from page 1

in the rulemaking that involves defining the categories. “We’re at the table,” he said.

“The way Cowlitz’s excess wind energy is delivered may affect whether or not it counts as ‘out of state,’” said Skeahan. “If we can find a firm transmission path we might qualify for Category 1.”

“California’s RPS requirement has been in effect for a while,” Skeahan said. But now, “there’s a big push to build solar in California. I don’t know if anybody believes they’re going to be able to do it.” If demand for wind-generated energy lessens, however, and the supply doesn’t, market prices will fall.

“We expect our revenue to go down, from the sale of wind power,“ and that will drive an additional rate increase this fall, said Skeahan. Cowlitz PUD will receive $1011 million less next year than what they counted on from renewable energy it has been selling to Pacific Gas & Electric and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

“We’re not alone in this.” At least two other large utilities in Washington are facing the same situation. “It is shutting down further development of wind,” he said.

Wind farm pioneers

In a project seen as “visionary,” Cowlitz PUD was ahead of the curve in 2006 when it entered the wind farm business. Partnering with five other utilities, Cowlitz PUD built two wind farms in Klickitat County. With White Creek and, in 2009, Harvest Wind in production, Cowlitz PUD began positioning to meet the mandates Washington voters approved in I-937: 3 percent of PUD’s energy must come from renewable resources by 2012; 9 percent by 2016 and 20 percent by 2020.

“Fundamentally, resources (wind farms) were built when voters of the State of Washington decided they wanted to use renewable resources,” Skeahan said. By building these projects at the time it did, the PUD secured adequate resources to meet load growth needs beyond 2020, meet the state’s 2012 RPS, and nearly meet the 2016 standard, based on projected loads. Meanwhile, the excess not yet needed by Cowlitz PUD could be sold elsewhere.

PAGE 5

“When you’re long on resource, you sell to somebody else,” said Skeahan.

But it’s important that the buyer pay as agreed.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce and Cowlitz Economic Development Council present

Economic Summit 2012

More than a few dollars short

In Cowlitz PUD’s 2010-2011 contract with Pacific Gas & Electric, (through Shell Energy, a Northwest energy marketer), there’s a glitch.

“We are receiving a market index price for that power,” Skeahan said, “but the contract called for a higher price,” with the $8 million difference withheld pending approval of CPUC. “Under the rules and marketing conditions at the time, it was a reasonable deal,” Skeahan said. “For reasons we do not understand, the commission (CPUC) chose not to act on it.”

“We’re going to explore our full remedies,” Skeahan said. “A lawsuit like that is expensive.” An $8 million shortfall in a $250 million budget is a relatively small piece, but “it’s enough to show up on rates.”

“They changed the rules of the game after the (California) utility signed the contract,” Skeahan said. “We entered into the contract in good faith. We believed everybody did. If the staff recommended approval we believe it should have been approved.” But it wasn’t.

December 8 • 5 – 8pm

Featuring the “best guess” projections for 2012: • • • • • • • •

Education Issues Residential Developments Healthcare Political Impacts Crime Employment Prospects Commercial Developments And the Genreral State of our Economy Join us at the Cowlitz Regional Conference Center 1900 – 7th Avenue, Longview $30 for all attendees Reservations are appreciated

For more information, contact Amy at the Chamber, 423-8400

Who’s on the ballot ? cont from page 1

“It’s a novel issue,” said Brachvogel.

“Can they do that?”

COWLITZ COUNTY

“If it’s all resolved in a way similar to the way it was (intended), we’ll be OK.,” Skeahan. But the situation is complex and still somewhat unclear.

PORT OF LONGVIEW

“Obviously we’re not very happy,” Andrew said. “It’s still very much an evolving story.”

Looking toward the future, with the supply of low cost hydro power from BPA essentially allocated and, combined with the provisions of I-937, Cowlitz PUD is more exposed to the fluctuations of the power markets than ever.

In some years that will work to benefit customers and in other years, including the coming one, it will not.

“That’s the cost of renewable portfolio standards and regulatory uncertainty,” said Brachvogel.

•••

• OCTOBER 2011

CITY OF WOODLAND

Commissioner District 1 Mayor John “JJ” Burke Michael Karnofski Grover Laseke

Commissioner District 2 Council Position 4 Marshall Allen Kent Preston Anthony “Tony” Brentin Lou Johnson Council Position 7 CITY OF CASTLE ROCK Robert Ripp Council Position 4 Scott Perry Michael Davis James Tarragano Council Position 5 Ellen Rose Mike Mask

CITY OF KELSO

CASTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT Director District 3 Skot Jones Bill Davis

Council Position 3 Kimberly Lefebvre Bob von Roch Ned Harris

KALAMA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Council Position 5 James Webb Gary Archer

Director District 5 Russ Ipock Marsha Shagool

CITY OF LONGVIEW

KELSO SCHOOL DISTRICT

Council Position 1 Mike Wallin Steve Moon Council Position 2 Tom Hutchinson Chuck Wallace Council Position 3 Cameron Templeton Ken Botero Council Position 4 Mikeal Keesee Don Jensen

Director District 3 Chad Moon Wesley “Wes” Eader

Director Position 4 Bob Lucas Diane Dick

COWLITZ 2 FIRE AND RESCUE Commissioner Position 1 Alan Godfrey Scott Neves

FIRE DISTRICT 3

Commissioner Position 1 Mark Higgins Dan Belding

LEXINGTON FLOOD ZONE Super visor Position 3 Douglas Ipock Jim Zintz

PAGE 6

• OCTOBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

around the

WATER COOLER

What is your business doing in terms of customer service or customer cultivation to keep a competitive edge during this flat economy?

Question:

“We’re trying to increase our contact with our existing customers, to stay in front of them. If you don’t stay in front of them and let them know you want to meet their needs, somebody else if going to take them from you. There’re only so many new ‘good deals’ out there . . . we try to make contact as frequently as we can without being over the top.”

“When people come in, often their biggest worry is they don’t know how they are going to pay for it. We work to get people enrolled in insurance programs that fit with their economic means. Or, we help come up with payment schedules for people who really have to stretch to pay out of pocket.”

Jason Meunier,

Commercial Loan Officer Twin City Bank, Longview

Sara Cave

V.P. of Strategy and Marketing St. John Medical Center, Longview

“We are releasing a platinum Visa card with a lower interest rate than most of the other cards out there ... to encourage more lending for our good customers.”

Erick Guttormsen,

Asst. VP of Business Lending Fibre Federal Credit Union, Longview

NO INTEREST 36 months or Save $2,400 when purchasing

a qualified system*. Limited Time! Call for free consultation or inquire online: renaudelectric.com *Rebates, PUD & Federal tax credits apply. Trane rebates in lieu of finance offer.

Keep them warm this winter

“We strive to treat clients personably. It’s really important to remember people’s names . . . it makes them feel good . . . recognizing them, paying attention and acknowledging them in a personal way. We give service they’ll never get on the Internet, for example helping people with questions or property research . . . they can talk to a person.”

Deena Dolbey,

Escrow Officer Cowlitz County Title Co., Longview

“As more customers are doing more things, we offer more services in response to customer requests . . . for things like mailing services, posters, and T-shirt design.”

Mike Vorst, Owner

Owner, Minuteman Press Longview

“We make sure we do face-to-face contacts — no emails. Letters absolutely don’t work right now . . . we research the customer (prospective donor) to know what they like, where they went to school . . . it gives you something to talk about, to relate to . . . it starts to build trust. But you have to be honest.”

Bob Johnson

Major Gifts Officer, PeaceHealth St. John Foundation

“We are investing in some technology upgrades so we can streamline processes and have more options in delivering tax returns.

We will see our current clients expanding quicker. We want to serve our current clients even better and we expect to acquire new ones.”

Family Owned & Community Oriented Since 1955 2300 TALLEY WAY • KELSO, WA • 360-423-1420

Erika Agren,

Firm Administrator Opsahl, Dawson and Company, CPAs, 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.

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 7

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

IT’S COMING…

IT’S COMING November 25, 2011 ...

What’s Going On at the Chamber?

“The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” Rick Winsman

- 1986 song by Timbuk3

T

here are three great days in our lives: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. Upon these days depends our entire history – our past, our present, and our future. These days speak to us of what we have been, who we are today, and what we are going to be tomorrow. And when it comes to change, the same holds true for organizations like your Chamber of Commerce.

Yesterday. It seems like such a short time ago that I walked into the Chamber office for the first time over six years ago. Kathy Bates and Norma Davey were the support base that provided the “that’s how we have done it in the past” perspective. They had many uncomfortable moments trying to deal with new and different ways to do things for our business community. Things that the Kelso Longview Chamber had never done before. Things that the Chamber had done forever, but would no longer continue doing.

And the Chamber thrived – growing in membership and effectiveness as the “Voice of Business” in its role as advocate. Programs came and went, but the Chamber’s mission — to serve and represent its membership ­— never faultered.

And the staff played an important role in carrying out that mission.

Today. This day is the most important of all three, for the future depends on what

• OCTOBER 2011

we do today. Over the past almost two years, the Chamber, like most of our members, has struggled to simply maintain itself during very difficult economic times. A much more aggressive fiscal posture restricted some resources to carry out our mission. Nonetheless, the Chamber staff managed to maintain the regular scope of activities and programs and, at the same time, create new and helpful tools for our members to use in their own businesses.

Now, with the slight glimpse of recovery in the distance, our business community in Cowlitz County is preparing for a Holiday shopping season that will be the best in the past three years. New retail businesses are completing their plans to open local stores; new manufacturing companies have either located here this year, have re-started or have begun to expand their operations, creating much needed new jobs in the area; and major corporations are looking at the near-perfect infrastructure to establish import/ export opportunities to markets along the Pacific Rim. Today is looking kinda good right now. But keep that quiet…we don’t want to scare recovery off.

Tomorrow. While we certainly cannot foresee the future, we can take charge of our actions today and direct them to influence our future. And while change is most difficult to deal with and accept, sometimes it is the best way to take charge of today’s actions. Such is the

November 25, 2011 T0 TO January 11,2011 2012 January 11,

Want to have your business listed as a sponsor?

Contact the Chamber Team to donate a prize for the Shop Local & WIN! 360.423.8400

Let us relieve your property management headaches.

360-577-8220 www.rodmanrealty.com

Property Management, Commercial Sales, Leasing &

Every door leads to or from a room ...

Development

This door leads to the imagination!

See us for your printing needs!

• Copying • Bindery • Fliers • Posters • Brochures • Banners • Carbonless Forms • Design Services • Lamination • Rubber Stamps • Fax Service

cont. page 10

1305 California Way Longview, WA 98632 “Where Commerce Meets California Way”

360-636-1239 360-425-3610

PAGE 8

• OCTOBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

What’s happenin’

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS BITS

Alison Peterson

By Laurel Murphy

Escrow Officer, LPO Office: 360-425-2950 Fax: 360-425-8010 Toll Free: 877-425-2950 Email: Alison@cascade~title.com Web: www.cascade~title.com

1425 Maple Street Longview, WA 98632

Stuff

Jim and Cindy Gray opened Commerce Corner Collectibles, “The Gotta Have It Store,” at 1300 Broadway. The store is located next to Jim’s Team Electronics and is the former site of Second Edition and White Cross Pharmacy. (How many of you remember the pharmacy?) In addition to the many antiques and collectibles that the Grays have collected, the shop features eight or nine consigners. This is “not junk,” Jim emphasized. “Most stuff is so emotional.” Jim is planning a website that features specials and a wish list.

Browsers can post items that they are looking for and their consigners can help find it. The Grays do not intend to sell their merchandise on the website.

When remodeling, Jim was delighted to discover some built-in shelving along one wall that were covered up with wallboard. He also showed me a 1906 kitchen stove with a large nameplate stating that Power Furnace Co., Portland Oregan (sic), manufactured it. You gotta see it; maybe you gotta have it!

Mon-Fri 11-5:30, Sat 11-4. 360-925-0927.

More Stuff

ry s, er a M istmb hr o C B

Another couple, this time a mother, Debbie Shannon, and son, Ryan, opened 2nd Generation Treasures at 1252 Commerce. The site was formerly Java Joy Coffeehouse. The store features used furniture, electronic equipment, old records, cassettes and VHS tapes, and household THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMING items. Debbie Shannon said, ... and the best gifts are personalized!

“We have clothes but don’t This year show your appreciation by wrapping focus on them. We wanted up a personalized gift for your employees. to be more a used furniture We have T-shirts, sweatshirts & much more! or knick-knack store.” The 1005 15th Ave. • Longview store “has been blessed with 360.636.1595 • www.prographyx.com donations” in part because

Logos • Screenprinting • Signs & Banners • Trophies

the Shannons will pick up donated items.

Mon-Sat 11-5. 360-751-4089.

Less Stuff The store next door to 2nd Generation, Left Over Louie Thrift Store (1246 Commerce) has posted a sign stating that it is closing. I talked to two volunteer working in the non-profit store that serves individuals with disabilities and disadvantages but did not make contact with a manager for more details. 360-4253700.

Decorate Your Home for the Holidays

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

$350 - Utilities included

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

1413 Commerce Ave.

360-575-9804

www.elamshf.com

Enjoy working in historic downtown Longview

C a ll 3 60 - 63 6- 0 993

Downtown Changes

In June HyettPalma consultants recommended a 64--item, five-year, downtown revitalization action plan. The Longview City Council took action on three of these items at the September 22 meeting.

Parking

Kristi Kellar and Nicole Lemmons

Let them eat cake

Nicole Lemmons, formerly with Your Marketplace bakery, recently joined Kristi Kellar at Kristi’s Custom Cakes, 1339 Commerce Ave., #103, inside Scoop’s Ice Cream. Kristi’s Custom Cakes specializes in 3-D sculpted, topsy turvy, wedding, and grooms’ cakes and cupcakes. Custom designs and one-of-akind cakes are their specialties. Contact them at 360-430-0429 for “custom cakes made your way.”

A Tale of Yarn

Evies Yarn Emporium has moved from 1314 Commerce to 1018 14th Plaza.

Owner Evelyn Baxter reports, “My customers are very happy with the off-street parking.” The shop is open but Evies is

FOR RENT Serving Cowlitz County and Columbia County since 1987

planning an official opening in early October. You can receive a gift if you visit the shop and say you read about the move in Kelso Longview Business Connection. Tues-Fri 11-5; Sat 12-4. 360577-0130.

“Your business friendly florist”

Don’t Forget ...

Boss’s Day is Oct. 16th

The Council approved parking recommendation from the Downtown Advisor y Committee. The recommendations included changing 2-hour on-street parking to 3-hours, changing municipal parking lot to include both 3-hour slots and untimed slots, eliminating parking permits, issuing one grace overtime parking ticket per quarter and creating an escalating parking fine structure. The city will re-evaluate these changes in one or two years. Info: Longview Community Development Department 360-442-5080.

BIA Funding The Longview Downtowners approved a motion at their September 13 meeting to create a Business Improvement Area taxation plan, partner with the City of Longview and retain the services of Pegasus Group LLC to facilitate the plan. The tax money would fund a downtown business director who would be responsible for revitalization activities.

Sixty percent of downtown business owners must agree to the taxing plan.

Rick Winsman who is soon retiring as president of the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce, owns

cont next page

THANK YOU, Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce for awarding Banda’s Bouquets the 2011 Small Business Excellence Award

Corporate Gifts • Events • Plants Lobby Florals • Employee Recognition

360-577-3824

Visit us in Downtown Longview • www.BandasBouquets.com

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

BRIEFS

NEXT MEETING

5:30 pm • Tues, Oct. 11th Las Rocas 1260 Commerce PROGRAM: Setting up a Business improvement Area to fund many of HyetPalma’s recommended changes for downtown

KLOG – KUKN - 101.5 The Wave announces the Everyone is welcome.

Come mix and mingle.

Refreshments available.

Info: Doug Har vey 360-636-4477

Longview Downtowners 360-423-8403, ext. 401

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

Pegasus. The Downtowners also agreed to pay $3,000 for the consultant if the City also agreed to also pay $3,000. The City Council agreed. Info: Longview Downtowners 360-423-8401.

Facade Improvement

The City of Longview initiated a building facade improvement program in June 2010, offering up to $12,500 in grants and $12,500 in loans. No applicants have met the city requirements. HyettPalma recommended that the city drop the loan requirement and make grants available for new signs. The City Council approved changes to the program that allow property owners to apply for up to $10,000 for building improvement grants and $2,000 for signs.

Info: Longview Community Development Department 360-442-5086.

••• 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.

business

PAGE 9

• OCTOBER 2011

“Disability Awareness 2011” programs set for October

addition of Norma Davey to its Sales-Marketing team in October. Davey previously worked for Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce, where her position as Director of Administration put her in direct contact with local businesses, helping them grow. KLOG – KUKN - 101.5 The Wave has been locally owned by the Hanson Family for 44 years.

“Our core philosophy is to develop marketing plans with results,” said station president Joel Hanson. “The key to our success is the success of our advertisers. We approach all of our clients as long term investments.

Norma is a perfect fit for what we are, what we do and what we believe”

“Pathways to Possibilities”

New location

“My Journey through Autism”

To celebrate the recent opening of its new Longview location at 959 15th Avenue, Utilize I.T., Inc. is offering free diagnosis of desktops and laptops (regular price $30) during the month of October. “With better visibility on 15th Avenue and ground floor access we hope to make it easier for our customers take advantage of our desktop and laptop repair services,” said Roxanna Huff, company president.

This location is in in addition to the company’s satellite office in Vancouver.

“While much of our work is done on-site for our business, municipal, manufacturing and medical clients, we want to make the in-store experience as easy as possible,” Huff said. “Our in-store repairs have really grown over the last few years because we offer a great price and fast service. ” The store will be adding new and used desktops and laptops for sale, along with some peripheral parts. “We are really focused on the service and repair, but have always offered great prices on computers and parts for our business clients, we are really just extending that to our retail customers.”

Utilize I.T., Inc. is an Information Technology solutions provider which has since 1997 provided networking, systems integration, premise wiring, desktop/laptop repairs and support to businesses and individuals across SW Washington and Oregon. The company’s eight employees collectively provide decades of experience. Besides the Longview location, the company operates a satellite office in Vancouver.

Utilize I.T., Inc. was awarded first place for comupter service in The Daily News’ “Readers’ Choice” awards in 2009 and 2010.

Utilizie I.T., Inc. is a member of the Kelso-Longview and Woodland Chamber of Commerce, has an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau and may be reached at 360-423-8200 in Longview or 360-635-4388 in Woodland.

Thurs, October 6 • 10am–3pm Cowlitz County Expo Center Organized by Cowlitz County Indian Tribe Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Resources and breakout sessions will include information on employment, disabilities, mental health, social services, and much more. Lunch will be provided. Contact: lhause@cowlitz.org for more details.

Mon, October 24 • 6:30–8 pm Wollenberg Auditorium, Lower Columbia College’s Rose Center for the Arts.

Event sponsored by the ASLCC. Dawn Prince, Ph.D., author, will share her journey through Autism and highlight aspects from her two books, Songs of a Gorilla Nation and Aquamarine 5: Stories of Students with Autism. A great opportunity for high school and college age students, parents, community advocates, college faculty and staff, and high school educators. Free and open to the public. For more information contact Megan Jasurda, Disability Support Services Coordinator at LCC, at 360-4422341 or mjasurda@lowercolumbia.edu.

“Together We Can”

Thurs, October 27th • 8am–5pm Cowlitz County Expo Center Organized by local employment vendors and community partners.

Resources and breakout sessions with information on transition, assistive technology, life skills, employment, living options, social skills behavioral challenges, and much more. All workshops will be free and open to the public.

Clock hours are also available for this event. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited. For more information and to RSVP please contact: FallConference@ slstart.com.

•••

Follow us on Twitter!

KLChamber

Got NEWS?

Send info on promotions, expansions, significant happenings and personnel achievements to: ndavey@kelsolongviewchamber.org Submissions may be edited for length, style and consistency. New members are invited to be interviewed for a “mini-feature” vignette.

Call 360-423-8400.

PAGE 10

• OCTOBER 2011

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Chamber Ambassador Committee

Oct 5 Education Committee Meeting Oct 10 Member2Member Monthly Mailing Deadline Oct 11 Longview Downtowners General Meeting Oct 12 Lower Columbia Professionals Committee Meeting Oct 13 Ambassador Meeting

Russ Chittock American Family Insurance

Oct 18 Business After Hours – Capstone Cellars @ The Bistro Restaurant & Wine Club

Jim Zonich, Kelso Hardware Marine

Sarah Cave, PeaceHealth

Tom Iverson, KLOG/KUKN

Diane Craft, Koelsch Senior Communities

Diane Craft Koelsch Senior Communities

Mike Julian, Kelso Theatre Pub

LCP accepting raffle prized for upcoming BUNC-OFF November 10 BUNC-OFF WITH LCP @ Red Lion

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

Susan Sherwin Longview Memorial Park

November 15 Business After Hours @ Community Health Partners/Cowlitz Free Medical Clinic December 8 Economic Summit – Quarterly Membership Meeting

Carrie Medack National City Mortgage

December 13 Holiday After Hours/ LCP Coat Drive @ Lower Columbia College

Pam Fierst Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center

TUNE IN ever y WEDNESDAY Your Chamber Connection KEDO AM1400 • 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Shannon Werner, Sign Smart USA

** Contact the Chamber to schedule YOUR ten-minute business spotlight 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

Kathy Kyllonen NW Continuum Care Center Aman Wasu Prudential NW Properties

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 David Campbell, City of Longview

Joel Hanson, KLOG/KUKN/TheWAVE Bianca Lemmons, Cowlitz County Title Julie Rinard, Community Home Health & Hospice George Raiter, Cowlitz County Commissioner

Jason Meunier, Twin City Bank Donna Hughes, WorkSource

Aaron Dawson Opsahl Dawson & Co. Carey Mackey Red Canoe Credit Union David Schaafsma De De Brill Community Home Health and Hospice Erik Guttormsen Fibre Federal Credit Union Gretchen Taylor Stewart Title Jason Meunier Twin City Bank Jennifer Dawson, Opsahl Dawson & Co. Julie Laird Bicoastal Media Keri Verhei Elder Options Lonnie Knowles Stewart Title Nick Lemiere Edward Jones

Spencer Partridge, PNE Construction & CCS

Nita Rudd, Cascade Title Company

Ted Sprague, Cowlitz Economic Development Center

Russ Chittock, Russ Chittock American Family Ins. Agency

Rick Winsman, Kelso Longview Chamber

Stephanie Bullock Heritage Bank

Neil Zick, Twin City Bank

Steve Moon, Foster Farms

WE ’vE MO vEd !

Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title Glenda Ashe, Twin City Bank

Lower Columbia Professionals Committee

Denny Richards, City of Kelso

Myrna Rak, SignMasters, Inc.

A New Location To better serve you!

Doug Clay, Wizard of Comfort

cont from page 7

Within the next three months, several changes within the Chamber staff will have occured. Last month Norma Davey, Director of Administration with more than six years at the Chamber, left to take an exceptional opportunity with one of our members. She is taking the skills and experience learned during her tenure at the Chamber to Joel Hanson and the team at KLOG/KUKN. That’s what happens when you develop your staff: others see how good they are and “steal” them away. No offense, Joel. We really think you are getting a great addition to your team and look forward to working with Norma in the future.

Board of Directors

Walt Naze, Retired

President’s Message case here at the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce.

2011-2012

Then there is the position of President of the Chamber. There are less than three months left before that change will occur at the Chamber. While I can’t tell you who will be taking this position yet – we are still in search mode – I can tell you from the background of the candidates who are being considered, that the future of the Kelso Longview Chamber looks very bright, indeed.

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.

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.

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

$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

KELSO LONGVIEW BUSINESS CONNECTION

PAGE 11

• OCTOBER 2011

Norma says GOODBYE Closing the door at the Kelso Longview Chamber gives me opportunity to look back and reflect on those who have helped me grow as a person and a professional.

Thank you to all who have served on the board of directors, who have been involved in the leadership academy, who have been a part of the Ambassadors and the Lower Columbia Professionals. And thanks to you, the members, my patient co-workers and my boss and mentor, Rick Winsman.

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.

Thank you for all you do!

Norma Davey Note: Norma worked for Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce for the past 6 years. She will still be seen around town in her new role as Marketing & Sales Rep for KLOG/KUKN - The Wave.

Live Music Every Friday and

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

Saturday night!

ter ather af g o t e c THE pla games . . . and e local Pro & Colleg V to watch n big screen T o l l footba

• Casual & Fine Dining • Live Music • Dancing • Karaoke • Friendly Bar • Winetastings • Cards • Book Discussions A warm • Special Events welcome • Meeting Space awaits you!

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL

Never More Affordable

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

$100 Initiation Fee • Monthly Dues have never been lower at only $25 per month $50 Monthly Food Minimum A total of $75 per month and you get to eat $50 of it – What a deal!

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

Longview Country Club • 360-423-8500 Enjoy the good life . . . in the Club’s gracious clubhouse!

The Bistro

Longview Country Club is a GREAT place to network and do business!

RESTAURANT & WINE CLUB

Join the club!

What are you waiting for?

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 12

• OCTOBER 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