November
2016
Business Connection
Volume 8, Issue 11
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Association of Washington Business offers answers to questions regarding DOL's new overtime exemption rule.
Despite court challenge, U.S. DOL overtime rule takes effect Dec. 1, are you ready! By Bob Battles
Association of Washington Business
Don’t get caught unprepared. Regardless of the highly-publicized court challenge, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) new overtime exemption rule will still take effect December 1. Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Team Bill Marcum, CEO Lindsey Cope, Project Manager Amy Hallock, Bookkeeper Kelso Longview Business Connection is published monthly by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce 105 N. Minor Road • Kelso, WA 98626 • 360-423-8400 kelsolongviewchamber.org To advertise, call Bill Marcum, 360-423-8400 or email bmarcum@ kelsolongviewchamber.org Ad Deadline: 20th of each month
The new rule, published in the Federal Register on May 23 increases the threshold salary for the overtime exemption from $455 per week to $913 per week, or $47,476 per year. Association of Washington Business (AWB) will host a webinar for employers to discuss the ins and outs of the new law governing who is eligible for overtime pay and answer employer questions on November 10, at 10 a.m. Registration for this webinar is now open. Additionally, Chamber Executive magazine, a publication by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, has a great Q&A article to give employers a solid foundation on the new rule and help business owners and operators prepare for the transition, which is less than two months away. The article’s author suggests employers begin their analysis by first determining these items: • Determining exempt positions where employees currently earn less than $47,476.
• Identifying your pay strategy and modeling scenarios where you increase the salary of these employees above the new salary level to maintain their positions as exempt, reducing salaries for newly reclassified nonexempt employees, and calculating the additional overtime the newly reclassified nonexempts may be earning. • Analyzing work requirements and duties for employees who are reclassified as nonexempt, establishing overtime restrictions and hourly reporting requirements. • Analyzing your benefits and paid time off structures to determine whether changes need to be made as the employee transitions from exempt to nonexempt status. • Planning your communications strategy so that impacted employees will understand the changes and expectations going forward. The DOL also has a Q&A webpage as well as recorded webinars employers can watch to learn more about compliance requirements. In addition to AWB’s November 10 webinar, members can also contact AWB Government Affairs Director and General Council Bob Battles to be directed to additional resources to answer questions or receive guidance on the rule's requirements. Article reprinted from the Association of Washington Business Olympia Business Watch blog.
Cowlitz Economic Development Council By Ted Sprague
Executive Director
Plenty of reason for optimism As several of our multi-million capital investment projects make their way through our state’s sometimes complicated, inconsistent and frustrating pre-permitting and permitting process we received another ray of sunshine from NW Innovation Works (NWIW). Recently, NWIW announced it will implement Zero Liquid Discharge technology at the proposed $1.8 billion Kalama methanol facility. Zero Liquid Discharge, (ZLD), technology eliminates all water discharge into the Columbia River. Let’s be clear, this is not required of the company by any existing or proposed legislation. ZLD uses a combination of technologies that will remove contaminants from the wastewater stream. The wastewater will then be recycled and reused in the facility. As an additional benefit, the implementation of the technology will reduce raw well water usage at the Kalama Facility by more than 150 million gallons annually. “We are deeply committed to protecting the environment and driv-
ing resource efficiency,” said Vee Godley, President of NWIW. “By incorporating Zero Liquid Discharge technology that eliminates all water discharge into the Columbia River combined with the facility’s use of Ultra Low Emissions technology to reduce carbon emissions, we continue to make significant leaps forward in making environmentally responsible manufacturing a reality.” NWIW has shown great leadership by investing in new technologies that will make the Kalama facility more environmentally responsible. When combined with the companies’ previous decision to adopt a pioneering ultra-low emissions (ULE) reforming technology it further reinforces NWIW’s commitment to building a safe, world-class facility, while also protecting our natural resources. The Cowlitz Economic Development Council has partnered with the company since the beginning and we are excited to see NWIW begin construction on one of the largest capital investment and job creating projects right here in Cowlitz County!
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Julie Rinard, President Community Home Health & Hospice
Joel Hanson, Past Past President KLOG/KUKN/The Wave
Michael Julian Kelso Theater Pub
Lance Welch, President Elect PeaceHealth
Chris Bailey Lower Columbia College
Bianca Lemmons Cowlitz County Title Company
Linda DiLembo Vice President Three Rivers Mall
Clayton J. Bartness, DC Longview Chiropractic Clinic
Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank
Ken Botero Longview City Council
Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching
Bob Crisman Gallery of Diamonds
Diane Craft, Past President Koelsch Senior Communities
Wendy Hutchinson Millennium Bulk Terminals
2 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Frank Panarra Foster Farms Tom Rozwod NORPAC/Weyerhaeuser Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council Steve Taylor Kelso City Manager Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner
Lower Columbia Professionals
Hosted by
Longview Eagles #2116 Thursday, November 17, 2016 1526 12th Avenue, Longview Doors open at 5:00 pm First roll of the dice 6:00 pm sharp! Karaoke following after BUNCO!
$20 per person Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org All proceeds go to the LCP Scholarship Fund
S! E G A VER
BE RAFFLE PRIZES!
FOOD!
FUN!
Night Collecting socks for:
Chamber CEO’s Message
Calendar Tuesday November 1 – 5:30-7:30 pm Business After Hours Pacific Tech Construction 1302 Walnut St, Longview Friday November 4 – 5:30 pm Ribbon Cutting Union Square 1132 Washington Way, Longview Monday November 7 – Noon Government Affairs Meeting Teri’s Restaurant 3225 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview Wednesday November 9 – Noon Ribbon Cutting Family Health Center 784 14th Ave, Longview Wednesday November 16 – 5:30 pm Quarterly Meeting Cowlitz County Conference Center 1900 7th Ave, Longview Thursday November 17 – 5 pm First Roll of Dice at 6pm Lower Columbia Professionals Bunco Longview Eagles #2116 1526 12th Ave, Longview Saturday November 19 – 11 am Ribbon Cutting Posh on Commerce 1314 Commerce Ave, Longview Tuesday November 22 – 11:30 am Ribbon Cutting Guse’s Gourmet Coffee 1208 Commerce Ave, Longview
By Bill Marcum
Shopping and supporting small business pays off big Small Business Saturday 2016 is November 26. The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce has 497 members – almost 300 of those businesses have less than 20 employees – making Small Business Saturday very important for a majority of our members. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA) there are more than 28.2 million businesses, with nearly 75 percent “self employed”. The SBA estimates 63 percent of the new jobs being created in the United States are being created by small businesses. However, only about half of small businesses survive five years. Take a look at the empty storefronts downtown and at the mall. That’s why it is so important for we, the community, to support our local businesses. Why you might ask? Here is a list of reasons to support our local businesses.
their business and to their customers, plus they have a more hands-on role therefore a stronger sense of care for customers and employees. This also provides for more flexibility and willingness to meet customer expectations. 4. Invest in your community – Local businesses are owned by people who live here, work here, and play here. They have kids in our schools, worship in our churches, volunteer in our community and, most of all, they invest here. 5. Keep our community unique – Where we shop, where we eat and have fun – all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit. 6. For every $100 spent at local small businesses, $68 returns to the community, according to Civic Economics.
1. Supports and creates jobs – which puts more money into the economy. People in the community can afford to buy homes, cars and clothing, dine out and much more by supporting other local businesses.
7. On average, 48 percent of each purchase at local independent businesses was recirculated locally. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, when money is spent at local businesses the monies will create additional spending. Take a look at this graph http:// www.amiba.net/resources/multiplier-effect/
2. Supports our community – Nonprofit organizations receive on average 250 percent more support from small business owners than from large businesses. Take a look at the posters for the events that happen in our communities. You see hundreds of small businesses supporting those nonprofit events and organizations.
All in all when you look at it, local business depends on the community for success and a community depends on the success of its local businesses for a healthy and growing community environment. So, shop local...not only this holiday season but every day. Help our communities grow and provide jobs for generations to come.
3. Get better service – generally small business will deliver stronger customer service. Local owners have a personal commitment to
And don’t forget to support our Longview and Kelso business during Small Business Saturday on November 26.
Every Wednesday Chamber Connections KEDO/1400 AM – 3-4 pm Stream live at www.threeriversradio.com
4 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Lower Columbia College By Chris Bailey
President
It's never too late to get your high school diploma or college credential Most people are aware that we serve people from all walks of life at Lower Columbia College. Not everyone realizes, however, that we have multiple opportunities for individuals who have not yet received a high school credential. One of the newer and most flexible options for earning a high school diploma is for adults age 21 years and older. Called the High School 21+ Program, this option allows people to build a portfolio of their life and work experiences which can be applied toward earning the diploma. Classes are offered both online, in the classroom during the day or at night, or through a combination of online and face-to-face learning. Tuition for the High School 21+ Program is set at just $25 per quarter based on a state directive, but we provide financial assistance to individuals who need it. The flexibility of online classes works well for people who have work or family responsibilities, and is especially effective for people whose work schedules change on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. We also offer classes for people who have received a high school credential at some point, but are not quite ready to enter college. These are our Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes, and can be taken alone or in conjunction with one of many Professional-Technical certificates. We call the combined option I-BEST, which stands for Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training. We have several options available in I-BEST in the fields of business, business technology, early childhood education, allied health,
medical assisting, nursing assistant, diesel and heavy equipment maintenance, and manufacturing. Our I-BEST students actually graduate at rates that greatly exceed the overall LCC student population. We believe the reason for this is the wraparound support they receive both in the classroom and by support staff. We also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for people in the community who need to increase their language skills before finishing their high school diploma or starting a college program. Our ESL students study English in the context of science, history, government, occupational education, health, fine arts, and digital literacy. We offer classes on the main LCC campus as well as the Broadway Learning Center and Woodland High School. Like the High School 21+ Program, tuition is set at just $25 per quarter with financial assistance available for those who need it. Most people who come to LCC to improve their English skills, earn a high school diploma or prepare for college level studies do so at the recommendation of someone they know. In marketing terminology, this is called “word of mouth” and is very powerful. The message is even more effective when it comes from a trusted friend, relative or co-worker. Sometimes all it takes to propel someone toward a better life is a small intervention. Why not be that person for someone in your life? To learn more about the options available at LCC, visit us at lowercolumbia.edu or call us at 360-442-2311.
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November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 5
Wednesday, November 16th Cowlitz Conference Center 5:30pm—7:30pm It has been a crazy election this past few months and now that the players are set it is time to find out what they will be facing in Olympia and how they plan to meet the demands of McCleary and balancing the budget. This will be a great opportunity for you to speak with them, ask questions about the predictive scheduling, the new minimum wage, the new overtime law that will start December 1 and many more items that the legislative process will be deciding in 2017.
$25 in Advance (by Nov. 10th) $35 at the door. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, coffee, sodas and a no host bar.
Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
?
?
Dean Takko
Brian Blake Jimi O'Hagan Representative 19th Legislative District
Sue Kuehl Pederson
State Senator, 19th Legislative District
? Ed Orcutt , Representative 19th Legislative District
Richard DeBolt Representative 20th Legislative District
John Braun State Senator, 20th Legislative District
Applied Applications Inc.
Jim Walsh
or Teresa Purcell State Representative 19th Legislative
Kelso-Longview Chamber
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Does Your Business Have Curb Appeal? Your company’s curb appeal goes a long way toward winning customers over and growing revenue. Even if you are not a retail business your curb appeal sends a message to passer-buyers about the quality of your work. Your business appearance projects an image to potential customers and local residents making them more or less inclined to visit or otherwise support your business.
Win the Mayor’s Award for “Best Curb Appeal” All Longview businesses are eligible to win a Mayors award for Best Curb Appeal Improvement. During the months of June-July 2014, you can nominate a business that has made the be best improvement by posting a “before” and “after” photo. Go to our Facebook page: Make Longview Beautiful. Those visiting this page can “Like” the one they feel has made the best improvement. The one with the most “Likes” wins! Visit this page often and make sure you vote.
Thank you!
Go Here & Vote!
Lake Sacajawea
Japanese Garden
facebook.com/pages/makelongviewbeautiful
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Dimensions 2" x 2.5" (*Includes ad on website) 4" x 2.5" (*Includes ad on website) 4" x 5.25" (*Includes ad on website) 4" x 10.5" (V) or 8" x 5.25" (H) 8" x 10.5" (*Includes ad on website)
All ads include full color and any design work. Deadline is the 21st of the month prior to publication. Digital files: high resolution PDF, Tiff and JPEG. Non-Members of the Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce please add 30% to above rates. To advertise or request additional information please contact Lindsey Cope at 360-423-8400 or lcope@kelsolongviewchamber.org or CEO Bill Marcum at 360-423-8400 or bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org
City of Kelso
City of Longview
By Mayor David Futcher
By Councilmember Ken Botero
The value of development I like to say that the real definition of economic development is bringing money into your community from the outside. Development is the key to helping you have more affordable government without tax hikes. It provides jobs, helps fight poverty and strengthens our infrastructure. Knowing that, it was nice to hear about the development potential held by a parcel on the south edge of town. Kelso’s largest developable industrial parcel is located at the mouth of the Cowlitz River. Last year, the city was able to obtain partial funding for a feasibility study that looked at possible opportunities to develop this parcel. There’s no specific proposal or industry planning to use it, but the study helped us see what hurdles any potential user might encounter. It was clear from the study that while there are barriers to the development, the potential could be huge. The parcel is adjacent to existing rail lines, allowing a spur to be built which wouldn’t impact any current vehicular traffic. Getting passenger vehicles and trucks to the site would likely take a new bridge, and those estimated development costs are now quantified for any potential users. The economic benefits of this development could be enormous. According to the study, the city could see one-time sales taxes of $15 million during construction, and about $700,000 annually when it’s operational. Direct wages when the project is operational could be $123 million a year, and the total investment in constructing the project could be more than $2 billion. When you’re at these early stages of development, we know that all of this information is an educated guess, and could absolutely not come to pass. But the feasibility study, available on the city’s website, does help us know the value of the asset our community holds. 8 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Putting thanks into Thanksgiving A special greeting this month as we celebrate our many thanksgivings. Most Americans are familiar with the Pilgrim’s Thanksgiving feast of 1621, but few of us realize that it was not the first festival of its kind in North America. Long before Europeans set foot in the Americas, native peoples sought to ensure a good harvest with dances and rituals such as the Green Corn Dance of the Native Americans. As with Native traditions in America, celebrations, complete with merry making and feasting, in England and throughout Europe after a successful crop, are as ancient as the harvest time itself. In 1621, when their labors were rewarded with a bountiful harvest, after a year of sickness and scarcity, the Pilgrims gave thanks to God and the Native Americans for their effort in teaching and helping with the planting of crops in a new environment. To these people of strong Christian faith this was not merely a revel, it was also a joyous outpouring of gratitude. After 1890, representations of the Pilgrims and the Native Americans began to reflect a shift of interest to the 1621 harvest celebration. By the beginning of the 20th century, the Pilgrims and the Thanksgiving holiday were used to teach our children about American freedom and how to be good citizens. Each November, in classrooms across America, students participate in Thanksgiving pageants, sing songs about Thanksgiving , and way back when, we use to build log cabin replicas representing the homes of the Pilgrims. This month, we the citizens of Longview and Cowlitz County, along with our friends and acquaintances, will celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, a time where so much is devoted to sumptuous meals highlighted by turkey and pumpkin pie, traveling to and from our family and friends’ homes, watching the traditional Thanksgiving Day parade and being overtaken with Thanksgiving day football. For many of us Thanksgiving day is so full of activity that there is a tendency to forget what’s at the heart of Thanksgiving. Because of the “busyness” of Thanksgiving day we might slow down to a pace more suitable to adequately express our gratitude. Begin this month by taking the time to take a walk with a friend, spouse, or children and notice the beautiful blessing of nature in our community. Take a minute in each day to thank the people in your life who matter to you, drop someone a note, a short phone call, or even a text message. Telling people you’re thankful for them will enrich your life as well as theirs. From all the citizens of Longview, I wish each of you a very special Thanksgiving and we are thankful for all you do.
By Chuck Nau
Retail Consultant and Sales and Managment Trainier – Murray & Nau, Inc.
Local, local, local...It's all about your local community With the holiday season soon to be upon us, your local retailers, service providers and small businesses continue to find themselves in an ongoing battle to keep their customers, both old and new, at home, in town rather than going down the road!
• It’s FUN, Saves Time and Energy, and It’s Personal! Errands to run…things to pick up are FUN, easy and convenient to do inasmuch as local merchants and service providers KNOW your
These local retailers, service providers and small businesses know that LOCAL awareness to ‘who they are’ and ‘what they do’ will grow and enrich their local business, service or small company AND your community.
community, KNOW you and are AVAILABLE to meet your day
That LOCAL awareness, the information and guidance about their business and themselves happens through a LOCAL advertising and marketing investment in their LOCAL media. That LOCAL media provides and creates the information resource and marketplace for your community through LOCAL news and advertising.
you KNOW!
You know, as a local business professional, the importance of investing in your LOCAL hometown or community. What about your customers and clients? What about your community’s retailers, service providers, small businesses, and shoppers (and buyers)? Why should you, your associates, your friends and your neighbors shop locally? Good question! Here are five responses and five community benefits to share with your associates, your friends and your neighbors about the importance and value of shopping at home…shopping in your local community...shopping with your local retailers and service providers. • It’s an Investment in Your Community! Shopping and buying in your community is an investment. Your dollars spent locally for goods and services STAY IN YOUR COMMUNITY, helping to build schools, hospitals and fund essential services like police, fire, parks and recreation. • It Fosters Economic Growth Today and Tomorrow! Shopping dollars spent locally help small businesses, owned and operated by your neighbors and friends, GROW. New businesses, both retail and service providers, start up when encouraged by the local economic and vitality. Business growth and new business start ups increase variety offering a broad assortment of goods and services...ALL COMPETITIVELY PRICED. • It’s Giveback! When you shop and buy locally you’re helping your community’s business men and women support a wide range of needed community services and charitable projects...senior centers, local food banks, day care facilities...with time, talent and money.
to day needs helping to solve life’s little problems. The best advice and the best value, always come from someone
• What Goes Around...Comes Around! Investing in local businesses with your shopping dollars fosters growth in your community...adding additional employment opportunities for your family, friends, neighbors and maybe even YOU! Shopping dollars invested locally stay in your community, funding essential services, while possibly REDUCING your tax dollars. Helping the retailers in your community create a public awareness of ‘who they are’ and ‘what they do or sell’ helps your community, your retailer, your business, your family and you GROW. Local advertising and marketing dollars invested in local media best represent your community through a local environment of news and advertising creating an information source and marketplace for your community.
© Murray & Nau, Inc. Chuck Nau of Murray & Nau, Inc. is a Seattle area based consultant and sales and management trainer. He is a 25-year veteran of advertising, sales, media and management, who knows and understands the everyday challenges of starting up, growing, and surviving in today’s ever changing retail climate. He has spoken to and conducted workshops for a number of local retail and chamber organizations, national publishing groups, national retailers and manufacturers, state press associations, and newspaper groups. Comments and questions are welcome and may be directed to Chuck via email: murnau@nwlink.com or at 425-603-0984. November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 9
Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments By Bill Fashing
Executive Director
We must keep listening to the needs of the region's Forgotten People Beyond the election, it seems much of America is talking about jobs and wages. With local unemployment, around 6.5 percent, well above the state and national average, life in Cowlitz County continues to be a struggle for many. We are also facing a median household income of around $45,877 compared to the state’s $57,244, based on the 2010 American Community Survey estimates. What can be done to improve our local job and wage situation? Traditionally, local communities have engaged in economic development efforts to attract new capital investment and the jobs that follow. In recent years, it has been more difficult to attract the desired traded sector jobs that have historically created the careers for America’s middle class, and even more difficult to obtain environmental permits within reasonable time frames for many of those companies. Several factors have contributed to the increasing challenges of job and wage growth. With the development of other industrialized societies throughout the world, competition for jobs and investment has gotten more significant. Americans have been left behind in certain industries where cost of labor and compliance costs have been significantly less at overseas locations. We have also seen the rise of a “populist culture” and its impacts on the economy. A recent article by Ron Coan, editor of the Journal of Applied Economic Development, takes on the issues of free trade and its impact on what he calls “the Forgotten People”. Coan does not question free trade but does say that, as implemented thus far, it does have its drawbacks and “has deeply hurt the working and lower class”. International trade has driven the regional economy in Cowlitz County for many years. The activities of the ports have solidified our economic dependence on international trade and most of the region appears to support the economic engine that has historically driven the economy. Yet we are seeing more frequent and more passionate opposition to cargos that may impact the environment, much of which is from outside the immediate area. This election cycle has
CREATE HOPE
4th Annual Hiring Drive
Hiring Drive as we strive to place 100 job seekers in Cowlitz County during the weeks of November 1, 2013 – December 31, 2013. Being out of work during the holidays can be particularly tough, and we would like to make sure as many people as possible earn a paycheck just in time for the holidays.
November 14 - December 23, 2016 Let’s put Cowlitz County back to work!
Join us in our effort to help put 100 people to work in our community in, bringing hope and encouragement to them and their families.
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1. HIRE: Express employee duringpeople the weeks To learn more about Pay Join us inHire ouraneffort to help put XXX to workCONSIDER in our community that week, bringing hopethe and • File clerk| November 2016 10 | Kelso1,to Longview Business Connection of November 2013 – December 31, 2013. Not It Forward Holiday Hiring encouragement them and their families. only will you gain a qualified worker to help meet
• Accounting clerk Chamber Nov. and Dec. 2016
your needs, but that worker will earn a paycheck before the holidays.
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Coan’s use of the Forgotten People term brought my thought process full circle as I read his most recent article. We have a contingent of the Forgotten in Cowlitz County and they are at the center of the homelessness discussion. They are, in many cases, the displaced workers impacted by free trade, a changing environmental landscape, and the great recession. Local impacts have been seen in the aluminum, commercial fishing, and timber industries. In short, the Forgotten People are, in part, members of the population that have trained and worked for decades in jobs and industrial sectors that are in decline domestically, have moved overseas, or have totally disappeared. Those facing homelessness are our friends and neighbors. No, they are not all moving here from elsewhere, most of them are people that used to have jobs, owned homes in some cases, and are now influencing the community in new ways. For the last 20 years, the economic development field has been focusing on the “good jobs” and the new economy which includes high tech. I, along with Coan, contend that some of those “bad jobs” that have been shunned in this country in the name of wanting something better for our kids, are just the jobs we need for the Forgotten People. The “Forgotten People do not have ‘politically correct’ career goals and aspirations” according to Coan. The efforts to retrain and prepare the entire population for the new economy has not worked for many and has led to a skills gap that is facing American manufacturing and many of the trades. The federal government has invested $3 billion in efforts to support international trade on the Columbia River in recent years. It took nearly 20 years of planning and litigation before channel deepening construction was finally completed in 2010. Currently in the region the possibilFor more Council of Governments, see page 11
Steve Dahl
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seen a dramatic rise in dissatisfaction and impatience on both sides of the political spectrum that will impact job creation efforts.
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Council of Governments, continued from page 10 ity of around $4 billion in private investment is in play that would take advantage of the channel deepening and bring economic opportunity to Cowlitz County as envisioned with the channel deepening. We are at a fork in the road and will be considering the balance of our environmental efforts with the very real need for quality jobs in the region that meet the skills and interests of the workforce.
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Based on The Great Environmental Awakening by Mark Sagoff, “An August 1991 Wall Street Journal poll revealed that concern and awareness of environmental problems are all but universal: eight in 10 Americans regard themselves as environmentalists’ and half of those say they are strong’ ones.” More recently 65 percent of Americans support setting stricter emissions and pollution standards on industry and business based on a 2014 Gallop Poll. We must continue to pursue better environmental control and performance, with the balance and support of job development based on opportunities that meet the needs of the Forgotten People. We must demand a higher level of honesty and transparency from not only the businesses, but from the environmental community that has on occasion played a role of building emotional and unreasonable opposition to proposed job creation projects. For now, we must realize that some element of impacts will continue to occur based on human activity. In order to survive in the world today, we need to move raw materials and develop energy sources, new and traditional, in order to meet the long-term needs of the world’s population. Shutting down the economy and resource based opportunities of rural communities and creating more of the Forgotten People is not an acceptable option. Coan stated “it is unlikely that anyone will ask the Forgotten People what they want”. This struck a note with me based on a recent presentation I heard on the Bridges out of Poverty at Lower Columbia College. The point of both is that we must engage those that need help to learn the most effective and efficient way to offer the needed assistance. We must work together to address the needs of the regions Forgotten People. This is my pitch for a more reasonable approach to the issues we face and a push for economic development that benefits the forgotten.
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November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 11
Business Toolbox By Jerry D. Petrick
Certified Business Adviser
A conversation with a CPA As the end of the year looms near, it is time for businesses to focus on yearend business planning – including tax and accounting strategies. I invited local CPA, Aaron Dawson, president, Opsahl Dawson Certified Public Accountants, to sit down for a conversation about the accounting and planning issues most pressing for most small business owners. Our conversation… Jerry Petrick (JP): Why does a small business need the expertise of a Certified Public Accountant – their books are simple and QuickBooks is pretty easy to use? Aaron Dawson (AD): First of all, your books may be simple but the IRS tax return certainly isn’t. Years and years of political influence has shaped the IRS tax code into such a complicated form that it takes an expert to make sure you fill it out correctly and capture the deductions and credits that you are do. For example, most people don’t know that you can deduct the sales tax on your new car purchase, boat purchase, or home remodel. Secondly, small business books may appear simple, but you don’t know what you are missing. Just balancing the company checkbook each month doesn’t mean that you have captured every deduction available. For example, the depreciation rules change materially from year to year. A business owner MUST evaluate the current year tax law versus the next year tax laws to see if it makes sense to make a major equipment purchase or vehicle purchase this year or hold off and make it the following year. Often with taxes, timing is everything. A business owner also will benefit from tax planning, often it is a frustration to find out on tax day you owe more than you thought and might be hit with costly IRS penalties and interest. A CPA can help with estimating your taxes. If you pay TOO much into the IRS quarterly it may have a negative impact on your company’s cash flow. All of this planning is work a CPA would be able to help with. My dad has been a CPA for over 40 years; he says a good CPA will always pay for themselves. So hiring a CPA will not be an added expense to your company. JP: My business was formed as an LLC what is the best way to file my federal taxes? AD: Great question. We deal with this question every day. There are many factors that go into the advice we give related to this question. Each situation is unique. LLC’s have great flexibility in that they can file as almost any type of entity for tax purposes [LLC is NOT a choice for filing with the IRS]. Some factors to consider are as follows: 1. Is this a 100 percent owned LLC (or husband and wife)? 2. Is this LLC profitable, or is it a start up and may operate at a loss for a year or more? 3. Does this LLC have employees? Each situation is unique and advice needs to be tailored to fit the 12 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
situation. JP: Along those same lines, what is the best entity type to use for tax purposes? AD: Again, there are a lot of individual details to consider. One entity type may work better for a certain situations than another. In today’s business environment, we generally advise business owners to organize as either an LLC or an S-corp. C-corporations have almost become a thing of the past in most situations due to their double taxation. JP: In addition to tax return preparation, how can a CPA help me? AD: A CPA should be considered one of your most trusted advisors. We take pride in being problem solvers. We deal with a large variety of issues. Taxation has many facets. In general, a good CPA should be able to pay for themselves with the tax savings they are able to produce, so generally a CPA is not an additional net cost to your business. A CPA can help with many topics, including: 1. Are you paying too much tax, are you missing valuable deductions? 2. Have you considered putting aside money for retirement and taking the related tax deductions? 3. Are you paying in enough quarterly tax payments so you are not surprised with a large tax bill at year end? 4. Every financial decision you make has an economic affect. Have you run your next major financial decision by your CPA? We are happy to act as a sounding board. JP: What are the most common mistakes small businesses make with their accounting/bookkeeping? AD: This question is easy - THE biggest mistake business owners commonly make is not having timely and accurate accounting records available to make business decisions. The big answer here is…”Monthly Close”. Is your bookkeeper performing a month end close of the accounting records and providing you with a monthly financial statement? In most cases the answer is “No”. With some training and setting of expectations, this is very achievable. Many business owners run their business by how much cash is in the bank rather than evaluating the true economics of their business on a timely basis. For example, if you are a construction business, generally you bid for each job. When the job is done, you should compare each expense item to your bid to see where you made money or lost money. Then take that learning experience and apply it to your next project or bid. This is very valuable information that is often lost as businesses are too busy moving on to the next job rather than learning and adjusting from the last job. JP: What should a business owner do when they get a letter from the State of Washington Department of Revenue or the IRS saying they owe taxes? For more Business Toolbox, see page 13
Business Toolbox continued from page 12
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AD: Immediately forward the letter to your CPA. Your CPA will evaluate the notice and advise you on what to do based on the nature of the letter. It is imperative that we be kept in the loop as soon as possible. JP: What if the business doesn’t have a CPA and they get the a letter from a taxing authority? Is that a good time to contact a CPA? Can they help me at that point? AD: Yes, a CPA is always ready to help current clients and those that wish to become clients. It is advisable to talk to a CPA right away to help give you advice on what the letter is saying. The taxing authorities have very specific procedures that they want followed; we can help make sure it doesn’t turn into a huge frustration for you. Often it is more expensive for a CPA to “FIX” problems if we are brought in to help too late, it is easier and more efficient for us to be involved from the beginning. JP: How can a small business best use a CPA to improve their business? AD: A CPA can help advise you from start to finish. We should be involved BEFORE you start your business. We will advise you as to what entity structure, how to set up your accounting system, we can help interview bookkeepers, what retirement plan to consider, should you take a payroll, etc. It is much more costly to “FIX” problems later than it is to set up your business correctly at the beginning with the advice of a CPA. JP: What is the most common issue that small businesses ask you to help them with? AD: This is a no brainer…they always want my help saving the tax dollars. Often it is a question of what should I spend my money on. Should I buy more equipment? Do I have the correct retirement plan? What about the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), how do I choose a healthcare plan? How should I structure the purchase or sale of my business? Every major business decision should be run by a CPA, we deal with hundreds of businesses each year, we see a lot of situations and know what works and what doesn’t work. JP: In closing, what advice would you offer small business owners to help them run more profitable businesses? AD: A business will have an increased chance of being profitable if you have the correct team in place to help advise you. The business world and related taxes are far to complex to not include a CPA. Keeping current and accurate financial records is a must. You have to watch every penny and make sure that each expense is authorized and protect yourself against fraud. Internal controls are one of the most important safeguards an owner can put into place. Acting with integrity towards your customers and employees will make sure your business is around for the long haul. For more information and an opportunity to ask your own questions of a CPA, please join Aaron on November 10 where he will present and answer your questions at the Best Business Practices Series workshop. To register follow this link: http://wsbdc.org/event/ bbp-series-learn-to-run-a-better-business-ask-a-cpa/ This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, CGBP, SPHR, PMP and Certified Business Adviser with the Washington State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Longview. Jerry provides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment. He can be reached via email jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 13
Ribbon Cuttings
Green Greeting
The Chamber officially welcomed Freedom Market Longview as a member October 20 with a ribbon cutting and great turn out. Doors are open for those 21 years old and older. Don't forget they have an apparel shop too! Thank you again, Shane Shaw Todd Bratton Hollie Hillman Breanna Alleman-Nelson!
Working New Room WorkSource moved next door and the remodel looks great, and is much more inviting for business customers and job seekers. We celebrated October 13 with a ribbon cutting.
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
14 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Ribbon Cuttings
Cutting Edge
Shear Warriors took the Chamber's shears to the red ribbon at their opeining October 6.
Handling it All
Your Destiny is in My Hands is open to handle a variety of business needs for clients. The Chamber hosted owner Destiny Taylor for the ribbon cutting October 4.
Thinking Positive
On October 25, we had the honor of hosting Isabelle Zehnder with Positive Child Care Solutions for its ribbon cutting. Positive Child Care Solutions is an in-home daycare and preschool. Welcome, Isabelle and Dave with Positive Child Care Solutions!
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 15
Business After Hours November 1, 2016 at 5:30 PM 1302 Walnut St., Kelso
$15 when you pre-register & $20 at the door Pacific Tech Construction, Inc. is a general construction contractor specializing in federal, commercial, and industrial work. We were founded in 1995 in Kelso, Washington and have grown to become one of the region’s premier small-business federal contractors. We are proud supporters of our local schools,non-profit organizations and the communities we serve.
FOOD BY GROUNDS FOR OPPORTUNITY RAFFLE PRIZES BEVERAGES BY ROLAND WINES & FIVE DONS BREWING
Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Mind Your Own Business (at the Library) By Chris Skaugset
Director – Longview Public Library
Six political reads draw top vote as presidential election nears With all of the craziness, insanity, torture (pick your own favorite
son consolidated his hold over the U.S. Senate. Nothing happened in
adjective) of this year’s political season, I thought it might be nice to
the U.S. Senate during this era unless LBJ wanted it to happen. At the
talk about some of the greatest political books of all time. I’m talking
heart of this fascinating story are both the power-hungry Johnson
fiction and non-fiction. All of these well-written, often classic, books
and the U.S. political system itself.
say something about politics, both good and bad, but are so much better than the countless hours of rhetoric, bombast, debate (choose your own favorite noun) that we have been subjected to. Here are six for the ages.
Most people have seen, or at least heard of the BBC series, I, Claudius. This television event was first a book by British author Robert Graves. This 1934 classic was written as if it was the autobiography of the Roman Emperor Tiberius Claudius. This novel, which
A list of the greatest political books would not be complete without
is set in 1st century Rome, is packed with more intrigue, murder,
Alexis de Tocqueville’s classic Democracy in America. His 1830’s
greed, and lust to make contemporary politics seem tame by com-
observations of the still young United States have never been sur-
parison and from a distant lens, a lot more fun.
passed, yet his insights into American life and government remain surprisingly current nearly 200 years later. It’s not the easiest book to work through, but I think you’ll find it worth the effort.
Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin wrote the bestselling, modern history classic, A Team of Rivals, which Steven Spielberg turned into the movie Lincoln. Nothing against Spielberg, or Daniel Day
Arguably the greatest political novel ever written, and in my opin-
Lewis, but this fascinating book is so much better. Goodwin tells
ion one of the greatest novels of any ilk, Pulitzer Prize winner Robert
the story of Abraham Lincoln, and the tumultuous times he served
Penn Warren’s All The King’s Men tells the tale of a southern politi-
as President, through his dealings with the members of his cabinet.
cian Willie Stark (most experts agree that Stark was modeled after
All of these men were rivals, all were great in some way, and it was
Louisiana politician and demagogue Huey Long) and his quest for
the sheer political mastery of Lincoln that allowed him not only to
power. The real Huey Long’s story is a fascinating study all by itself,
work with each of these difficult, and often trying, men but to make
but this novel does so much more by giving readers a glimpse into
their work succeed when there seemed little hope of success. A fas-
the 1930s, the politics of the age, and the human heart. What began
cinating account of one of the nation’s darkest periods, showing that
as an idealistic attempt to help the working man turned darker as
Abraham Lincoln was not only our greatest president, but perhaps
Stark’s lust for power overtook all else. The narrator takes the reader
our greatest presidential politician as well.
through this change and the action that he is compelled to take when all else fails.
Finally, I’m going to turn to another great, though very dark, political novel. The Handmaid’s Tale is perhaps Margaret Atwood’s
Next, I wanted to mention Robert Caro’s gripping, multi-volume
greatest work (and that is saying something) and is set in a near, and
biography of Lyndon Baines Johnson. Seen by many as the greatest
dystopian, future where a theocratic state rules and keeps women in
politician (both in the good and bad senses) of the 20th century,
a state of subjugation. Think 1984, but a 1984 where women’s roles
Caro tells the tale of Johnson’s rise to power. Perhaps, the best of
are limited in a frightening, and perhaps all-too real way. This fasci-
the award-winning series is the third volume, Master of the Senate,
nating, and brilliantly written satire explores power and the ways in
which follows Johnson from 1949 to 1960, the years in which John-
which women allow it to be won and lost.
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 17
Boot Camp
Retreat
The final fall Boot Camp, Inspecting What you Expect with Jerry Petrick of the Small Business Development Council, was October 14. Great turn out as 36 people braved the wind and rain to attend. Special thank you to Fibre Federal Credit Union and Worforce Southwest Washington for sponsoring the 19 classes we had this year. All new classes coming in March 2017.
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1157 3rd Avenue, Suite 218
1157 Longview, 3rd Avenue, WA Suite 98632 218 1157 3rd360.952.3100 Avenue, Suite 218 Longview, WA 98632 Longview, WA 98632 www.amadaseniorcare.com 360.952.3100 360.952.3100 www.amadaseniorcare.com www.amadaseniorcare.com
2016
10
SATURDAY
DECEMBER
5
PM
At Commerce & Broadway in
Historic Downtown Longview
*Cost: $25 w/shirt or $20 no Shirt.
$ Company Discounts: 2 off per registration (25+ $
65 Family of 4 includes shirts.
$
(more family registrations can be added for an additional $10 w/shirt)
* A portion will benefit the Lower Columbia Professionals Scholarship Fund.
Prizes:
Medallions for top 3 female and male finishers.
Doors open at 3:30pm and Costume Contest at 4:30
registrations) or 5 off per registration (100 or more registrations). Company teams must sign up through the Chamber.
Registration Deadline: Tuesday 12/1/2016 (to get
shirt) Registration for no shirt available through day of the race.
Registration: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Brandy Kays
Premier Group
Cowlitz Valley Runners
SERVPRO® of Longview / Kelso Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
Retiree Extraordinaire – Rick Johnson Summerland Catering Gallery of Diamonds Three Rivers Christian School Eldon Robbins Auto Sales Human Society
Kelso Theatre Pub & Back Stage Café Longview Chiropractic Shear Warriors
Friends of the Jingle
Kelso School District
Longview School District
Director Student Support Don Iverson
Superintendent Dan Zorn
Partnership moving forward The Kelso School District is set to begin developing a new capital improvement plan for the next 20 years. Our district has been blessed by the overwhelming support of our community to support both general operations levies and capital bond measures over the years. This is largely due to working alongside our community and staff, and earning their trust as we build these plans together. In March of 2001, Kelso voters approved a $29.9 million bond measure focused on renovating Barnes Elementary School and Kelso High School. With voter approval also came state matching dollars of $19.3 million. This investment by our Kelso community, particularly in our high school, has allowed our district to provide a central hub for quality education, and vast community enrichment through activities and engagement in our schools. The State of Washington provides limited funding for school facilities construction through the School Construction Assistance Program. Local school districts, via voter approved capital bonds or levies, are obligated to fund the upkeep and renovation of school facilities first before state assistance can be obtained. As our current 20-year plan and bond near their end, a Facility Improvement Team (FIT) is being assembled and charged by the School Board to undertake a process to keep school district facilities in good condition, and to accommodate new and existing educational programming by preserving, modifying, and/or replacing existing infrastructure within sound fiscal practices. Over the last 15 years, Kelso School District has spent approximately $13 million on capital and facility improvements, energy conservation efforts, and in general maintenance, repair, grounds, and custodial upkeep from our own local monies. Unfortunately, this is not enough to keep our schools and facilities in the condition needed without seeking additional voter approved funds through a capital improvement process and bond measure. Our process will include a comprehensive inventory of existing facilities, and an assessment of their condition. Our goal is to provide our students and staff with schools and facilities that are safe, healthy, accessible, and educationally advantageous learning environments. The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) will focus on the following strategies: 1) Develop a long-range facilities plan that is fiscally responsible and builds upon the changing needs of the district and local community; 2) Renovate and construct facility additions, or replace obsolete or worn-out schools on a systematic schedule to provide safe, up-todate facilities that meet the changing educational program needs of the district; 3) Provides for maintenance and system renovations or replacement on a schedule that: For more Kelso Schools, see page 21 20 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Designed for excellence Community leaders, parent representatives, and staff members came together October 27 to review each of our school’s annual improvement plans and to observe the actions taken toward meeting the plan’s goals. The work these individuals contributed to this School Improvement Plan Review Committee is essential for the district’s strategic plan – our Design for Excellence. The primary goals of our Design for Excellence are improving student achievement and school climate and culture. Each school improvement plan is similarly focused upon delivering these goals. On October 27, school principals provided committee members presentations about ways in which each school is addressing the goals and focus areas of the district. Following the presentations, principals gave guided classroom tours, which showcased improvement efforts “in action.” A focus on reading and mathematics and climate and culture was highlighted. Participants provided input regarding their observations and learnings. The input from these reviews will help us to improve upon our school improvement process and provide guidance as we identify ways in which we can better serve the needs of our students, their families and our community. Outstanding questions gathered will help shape future board and community presentations. This unique opportunity also provided our community members the chance to see the interworking of our schools, to learn more about the goals we have set for our staff and students and how the schools are implementing strategies to meet those goals. The annual school improvement plan review process provides our constituents the opportunity to get an “up close” view of our schools and the work being done to improve student achievement levels and our schools’ climate and culture. If you are interested in participating in this review process next fall, please let us know. We would appreciate you being a part of our efforts to make the Longview Public School District the district of choice in southwest Washington.
TUNE IN every Wednesday Your Chamber Connection
KEDO AM 1400 – 3 to 4 p.m. Contact the Chamber to schedule YOUR 10-minute business spotlight
Kelso Schools continued from page 20 A. Avoids accumulating excessive deferred maintenance; and,
B. Ensures that buildings remain environmentally safe, function efficiently, maintain adopted levels of service stan dards, and meet existing and future facility needs;
4) Incorporates updated school safety and security measures, and emergency response systems to expedite response and arrival of emergency responders in the event of a threat or emergency at schools; and, 5) Provides for the ancillary facilities that are needed to support the educational programs and other non-education needs of the district. Our facility improvement process will engage the Kelso community and our staff to ensure we understand their needs and wants; and, in
the end, that we build a plan that will be supported and approved by voters. Our partnership with our local Citizens for Kelso Schools (C4KS) committee is vital and key to the success of this project. The Citizens for Kelso Schools strive to increase awareness, support and positive relationships between citizens and the district. C4KS has been actively supporting the passage of school levies and bonds for more than 40 years, and advocating with the Kelso community to provide a high-quality education for Kelso’s school children. We look forward to the process ahead, and to the partnerships and the dedication and commitments which help define, “We are Kelso”.
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There’s a Difference. November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 21
PeaceHealth By Cathy Barr
PeaceHealth-St. John Foundation Executive Director
Foundation's December gala benefits regional cancer center Each year in December, PeaceHealth-St. John Foundation hosts our signature fundraising event, A Star Affaire. Since its inception, this event has raised more than $3.5 million dollars from our community, for our community. This year, Dr. Bill and Deidre Cheslock are chairing A Mardi Gras Gala: A Star Affaire 2016, a night of lively music, delicious food and great company. On December 10 at the Cowlitz Regional Conference Center, this festive evening will feature cocktails, dinner, live and silent auctions, live entertainment, dancing, and a variety of other activities to keep our attendees captivated. Our goal for this year’s event is to raise a net amount of $150,000 for the Lower Columbia Regional Cancer Center. The Lower Columbia Regional Cancer Center provides numerous benefits for patients, physicians, caregivers and the community. This event will continue to raise funds to ensure that our community has
access to a cancer center that is dedicated to relieving suffering, providing needed support, educating the public in prevention and early detection and to cure whenever possible. I hope that you will join us; we want to fill the room with our community members and support our friends and family that are battling all forms of cancer. If you would like more information on this event, please do not hesitate to contact me at 360-414-7900 or email to cbarr@peacehealth.org.
Just 30 minutes That’s how long the average mammogram takes. One 30-minute screening could save your life. Now that’s time well spent.
Prevention n
Screenings n Treatment peacehealth.org/ kearneybreastcenter
22 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Would advertising to the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce audience benefit your business? Now offering a special Facebook advertising package that serves your ads to a unique, targeted audience of business people already connected to the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce. Targeted audience: ■ FB users who like the Chamber page: 1,600 ■ FB users who have visited the Chamber website in the last 30 days (retargeting): 1,200 ■ FB users with profile emails matching KLC email list: 1,000 The total audience will net out less than the combined numbers from above due to duplication.
Basic $200 Package We create a campaign that goes to both targeted audiences over a period of 3-7 days. You receive $100 worth of Facebook advertising. Based on past campaigns and depending on your goals for the campaign, you can expect the following: ■ Up to 100 actions whether that is click to client’s website or some type of FB engagement.* ■ 10,000 to 20,000 ad impressions served to FB users.* ■ 60% to 90% reach penetration of the three audiences noted above.* ■ Campaign creative includes up to three ads in creative format of either single image, carousel or animated slide show. Client provides photos ($10 per photo fee if we provide photos). ■ Client receives a detailed report after the campaign noting the results. Custom campaigns are available. ■ Only two campaigns per week.
Sound good? Contact us! 360-423-8400 bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org lcope@kelsolongviewchamber.org
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Workforce Southwest Washington By Alyssa Joyner
Cowlitz Wahkiakum Outreach Specialist
Supporting veterans is good for business and our community With Veteran’s Day just around the corner on November 11, I’d like to thank our veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. I encourage our business community to show its support by seeking out veterans for job openings you may have available. Veterans are excellent candidates. They have skills and experience, a strong work ethic, the ability to rapidly adapt and adopt new skills and a strong sense of personal integrity and accountability. Businesses interested in hiring veterans can get assistance and information through several areas: • WorkSource: Companies that hire veterans may qualify for onthe-job training funds or other incentive programs through WorkSource. If you are interested in hiring veterans, contact Michael Ben-
Veterans have a friend at WorkSource Veterans, and certain eligible spouses of veterans, are offered Priority of Service for all U.S. Department of Labor-funded activities and programs. Many of our employment specialists have received formal training to assist veterans in their job search, and Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists assist eligible military veterans overcome barriers to employment and help them compete for jobs. They’ll assess your skills and interests and put together an employment plan that’s right for you. DVOPs are veterans, too. They understand your situation and they’re in close touch with veterans’ organizations and resources that can help you. For assistance, contact Monique Martin, Veteran’s Outreach Program Specialist, at 360-735-4985 or momartin@esd.wa.gov.
ko, veteran’s employment representative, 360-735-5015 or mbenko@ esd.wa.gov.
As Secretary of the 2016 Cowlitz County Veterans Expo and Stand
• YesVets: If you hired a veteran since February 1, 2016, let every-
Down committee, I would like to thank all of the organizations and
one know by enrolling in the YesVets program and receiving a decal
volunteers that participated in our October 18 event at Calvary Cha-
you can display at your location. Go to www.yesvets.org. So far, four
pel in Kelso. Approximately 118 veterans and 30 family members at-
companies in Cowlitz have enrolled and hired veterans. Thank you,
tended and received services. Forty-two organizations had resource
Community Home Health & Hospice, KLTV, Tribeca Transport and
tables and 29 volunteers helped the event go smoothly. This is truly a
West Coast Training.
community collaborative effort and Cowlitz County does a fantastic
• Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): If you hire veterans, your business may qualify for tax savings. For example, you can save money on your federal taxes when you hire eligible veterans through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program. Learn more at https:// esd.wa.gov/about-employees/WOTC. • Washington State Department of Revenue Incentives: Effective October 1 businesses that hire unemployed veterans for full-time employment in positions located in Washington may receive a credit against their Business and Occupation (B&O) tax or Public Utility Tax (PUT). Learn more at http://dor.wa.gov/content/FindTaxesAndRates/TaxIncentives/IncentivePrograms.aspx. • ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve): A U.S.
job supporting our local veterans and their family members. More than half of the veterans who attended the event said it was their first stand down. They were able to receive free flu shots, lunch, haircuts, clothing and connections to medical, dental, employment, housing, counseling and social services. Thank you, RiverCities Transit, for providing much-needed transportation for our veterans! Our veterans and their families have sacrificed much. Events such as the stand down and companies that actively seek Veterans to hire are small ways we can show our appreciation and give back for all they’ve done for us. Alyssa Joyner, a Navy veteran, is the Cowlitz Wahkiakum Outreach
Department of Defense program that helps match employers with
Specialist for Workforce Southwest Washington. She increases partner-
veterans of the Guard and the Reserve, and helps to clarify the re-
ships and improves the access of businesses, education providers and
quirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemploy-
community organizations to public workforce system programs and
ment Rights Act (USERRA). Go to www.esgr.mil.
services. Reach her at ajoyner@workforcesw.org or 360-921-2966.
24 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
County Commissioners By Dennis Weber and Mike Karnofski
Funding, facilities and future planning topics worth discussion Building and Planning Report Increase– Building permits for both new construction and alterations through September show an economic improvement in Cowlitz County. Permits for new Family Home construction grew 28 percent over 12 months and valuation estimates jumped 36 percent. Although the number of permits for new commercial/industrial are down, the value of the new projects grew 8 percent. Single Family Home remodel permits jumped 24 percent while the value of the remodels increased a huge 46 percent. Most dramatic was Commercial/Industrial remodels. Permits went from 6 to 25 (a whopping 316 percent increase) while the value of the remodels jumped from $200,000 to $1.8 million (eight times). One disappointing area, however, was in Multiple Family projects: zero permits were issued this year through September, continuing a long term trend. Another Budget Year – Cowlitz County is in the midterm review of our two-year budget cycle. Even given that, the Commissioners have received requests for 24 new positions, and to reclassify 19 positions for higher salaries. The total cost of these requests would add additional $2.3 million to our budgets. These requests would restore county government employment to near pre-recession levels. Unfortunately, revenue growth has not kept pace. While all the requests have some merit, obviously we will not able to fund them all. A summary is shown below: Key New Positions 1 grant writer* (recommended by McShane Commission as able to pay for itself) 1 maintenance person 2 positions for Building and Planning* (to meet increase in permit requests as economy improves) 5 sheriff deputies (estimated $149,000 for each deputy including salary/benefits/uniform/vest/fully-equipped vehicle) 1 crime analyst for sheriff ’s office (non-commissioned) 1 Superior Court Judge* 3 court clerks (2 for Superior Court, 1 for district court*) 1 Deputy Prosecuting Attorney 1 Dispatcher for 911 Comm Center* *Partial funding from other government agencies, permit fees Determining which requests to fund are examples of the decisions that we face; more law enforcement, more judges, better planning, improved maintenance of facilities, quicker service for documents and records. If you have thoughts on the proposed requests or would like to see a full description please contact us at http://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/index. aspx?NID=2083 Facilities Planning – In July we reported on recommendations by the
Citizen’s Commission on Facilities and Finance, headed by Frank McShane. Commissioners have directed staff to move forward on adopting many of them, including the grant writer mentioned above. (See the full report at http://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/9325) The Facilities and Maintenance Department has hired an architect with courthouse and morgue construction experience to develop plans for the top recommendations: build a new morgue, strengthen the integrity of the Hall of Justice roof, remodel its third floor (abandoned jail) for future use. OFM Director Claire Hauge has recommended a set-aside of monies unspent each year for a building depreciation fund. Also, the Health and Human Services Departments have recently returned to 9th Avenue following intensive remodeling this fall. And by the end of the year, the IT Department will return to its former offices on the third Floor of the County Administration Building adjacent to the 911 Comm Center back-up location. Sales, Mergers, and Acquisitions – Surplus county real estate is being proposed for sale, while other parcels are being proposed for re-purposing, and yet other parcels are being acquired by the county – all with the goal of improving customer service. For example, as mentioned above, growth in the Departments of Health and Human Services made it logical for the county to end one property lease and move back to a countyowned building on 9th Avenue. Near Riverside Park, several parcels are available for sale, one along Westside Highway next to the District 2 Fire Station and three lots at the end of Cowlitz Drive, including one abandoned house. The biggest pending sale is for the Hoffstadt Buffs Visitor Center overlooking the North Fork of the Toutle River. Recently the county was offered the final remaining lot on the block between Cowlitz Way and Fourth Avenue North, the former location of the Emergency Support Shelter and current homeless shelter. With requests for new locations for the county Morgue, the 911 Comm Center and the Public Defender’s Office, the commissioners made an offer which should close soon. New Public Safety Center Considered – Although no decision has been made, commissioners are considering the possibility of combining locations for three departments now in Hall of Justice (HOJ) that could make room for the much needed fifth Superior Court Judge and Courtroom. One department needing a new location is the 911 Comm Center, currently cramped below flood-stage in the HOJ basement with concrete walls and a faulty HVAC system that has outgrown its ability to air-condition the sophisticated Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) equipment. Wherever it is moved, 911 Comm Center should be adjacent to the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) to ensure accurate, timely communications during incidents requiring special focus by multiple public safety agencies. Sheriff Mark Nelson has also suggested that his department join DEM and 911 in the new facility. Very preliminary discussions are under way. November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 25
October Ambassador of the Month Pam Whittle
American Workforce Group
'Second newest' Ambassador jumping right into Red Coat role The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce is honoring Pam Whittle as its Ambassador of the Month for October. She has been serving as branch manager for Columbia Bank’s Longview Branch, but will soon begin a new career helping businesses find the right employees as part of the team at American Workforce Group. Pam is the Chamber’s “second newest” Ambassador, and she is diving in. She said she joined because she loves getting out and seeing new businesses. Her favorite Ambassador activity is greeting people as they come in the door at Chamber events because she gets to see everyone. When she is not working or wearing her red coat, Pam is involved
in Longview Early Edition Rotary, Lower Columbia Professionals, and the Kalama Chamber. She lives in Kalama. She has been married since 2013 and has three children. For fun, she and her family like to visit tap rooms and breweries, as well as spend time outdoors. Chamber Ambassadors, known as the Red Coats, are an integral part of the Chamber of Commerce. The Ambassador team is made up of active Chamber volunteers whose responsibilities include meeting and greeting at Chamber events, welcoming new members and assisting at ribbon cuttings and community events. Ambassadors juggle busy professional careers while making time to assist the Chamber at a variety of events year long. If you would be interested in wearing a red coat and representing the Chamber, contact CEO Bill Marcum at the Chamber office.
EstatE Planning & EldEr law
Attorney Michael Claxton Licensed in WA & OR
Attorney Brian Brault LL.M. in Taxation
WALSTEAD MERTSCHING AT TO R N E Y S AT L AW
Walstead Mertsching provides advice and a variety of estate planning services, including: • Asset Protection • Community Property Agreements • Durable Powers of Attorney • Guardianships • Healthcare Directives/Living Wills • Medicaid and Long-Term Care Issues • Probate • Tax and Retirement Planning • Wills • Will Contests 26 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
A Full Service Civil Law Firm for over 90 Years CIVIC CENTER BUILDING, 3RD FLOOR 1700 HUDSON ST., LONGVIEW, WA
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Business Back 2 School
Getting an Education
Business professionals took a seat at Kelso High School during the Chamber's Business Back 2 School event. Participants learned about Career and Technical Education programs, how they've changed in the past 40 years and how our local schools are preparing students for the workforce. If you missed it, the Chamber will host another event February 9 at Mark Morris High School.
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 27
In The News
Community Home Health & Hospice promotes Rinard to Development Director Community Home Health & Hospice (Community) announces the promotion of Gift Planning Manager Julie Rinard, CFRE to the position of development director. In her new role she will be responsible for overseeing the fundraising and marketing activity of Community as well as Hospice Thrift Shop.
Partner, visiting Community Hospice Care Center patients. Together Rinard and Buster also promote Hospice Thrift Shop, Community’s Pets for Hospice calendar and walk in community parades.
Golf tournament raises $8,800 for Community's charity care program
Community President and CEO Greg Pang states, “Julie obtained a demanding CFRE certification (Certified Fund Raising Executive) two years ago and the results she’s been able to achieve for our agency, mission and patients have been remarkable. Julie was raised in this area and has many connections throughout southwest Washington, it has been an honor to see her grow into this new role right here at home. ” Rinard joined Community in 2008 as development coordinator. Rinard attended Lower Columbia College and graduated from the Lower Columbia Leadership Academy. She is a member of: Association of Fundraising Professionals, Northwest Planned Giving Roundtable, Kelso Rotary, Sewing and Textile Volunteers of Cowlitz County, Longview ’23 Club and is Board President of Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce. In her free time Rinard enjoys community events, travel, hiking, sewing and crafts and her dachshund Buster who volunteers as a Pet
On August 26, more than 40 golfers gathered at Three Rivers Golf Course for the second annual Charity Care Challenge benefiting Community Home Health & Hospice (Community). The event exceeded last year’s funds raised and brought in $8,800. All proceeds were donated to Community’s charity care program, which provides home health and hospice services for uninsured and underinsured patients, inpatient respite care, telemonitoring, free grief support, translation, extraordinary care and support services that include Community’s We Honor Veterans and Pet Peace of Mind programs. Community spent $663,812 in 2014-15 on charity care services. “We are excited to be involved with an event that has such a beneficial impact on our community,” said event co-chair and Fibre Senior Vice President Rick Dahl. Fellow event co-chair Jack Courtney adds, “Come out and putt for a purpose with us next year on July 24, 2017!” “The Charity Golf Challenge brings together sponsors and golfers of all levels whose purpose is to raise funds, promote awareness of Community’s charity care program and have fun at the same time,” said Community’s Foundation Committee President Joe Amrine.
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In The News
Washington Retail Association presents award to area Congresswoman Congresswoman Jamie Herrera Beutler stopped in at the Kelso Longview Chamber during October to receive an award from the Washington Retail Association. She loved our Sasquatch and had to have a photo with him. Mark Johnson, vice president of Government Affairs for the Washington Retail Association, presented the National Retail Federation’s Hero of Main Street to Beutler. "A special thank you to the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce for hosting this presentation and all their work on behalf of retailers and other Main Street businesses," Johnson said. Congresswoman Beutler has been a consistent supporter of small business retailers and the retail industry’s public policy priorities. In particular, she has been a champion on improving infrastructure and leading the efforts on tax reform. Main Street retailers are constantly struggling under a steady barrage of attempts to impose new taxes and regulations not only by the federal government but also state and local. Congresswoman Beutler has stood with her retailers and other small businesses to protect them and improve the business climate so that they can compete on a fair and level field. She understands the struggles businesses go through every day to open their doors, employ our citizens and provide needed products
and services. Retailers and other businesses are not looking for a handout – they are looking for a chance to succeed by their own hard work and perseverance. “The citizens of the 3rd Congressional District, the state of Washington and our great country are fortunate to have a leader back in DC that values and recognizes the importance of a healthy business climate,” Johnson said. “I can’t think of a more deserving individual for this award. On behalf of the Washington Retail Association and the National Retail Federation please join me in recognizing a true Hero of Main Street – Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler.”
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 29
Welcome New Members
POSITIVE CHILD CARE SOLUTIONS In-home daycare and preschool Isabelle Zehnder Owner 137 Ruby Pl. Kelso, Wash. 98626 360-903-3915 isabellenicole@gmail.com ANOTHER OPTION Sherri Kincaid 600 Royal St., Ste B Kelso, Wash. 98626 360-423-1509 ext. 111 Skincaid.anotheroption@hotmail.com POSH ON COMMERCE 1314 Commerce Ave. Longview, Wash. 98632 360-353-3533
CHILDREN’S JUSTICE & ADVOCACY CENTER 214 N. Pacific Ave. Kelso, Wash. 98626 360-353-3933 edcjac@cowlitzcjac.org
FOREVER FIT 1211 18th Ave. Longview, Wash. 98632 360-425-5611 ffcontestresults@gmail.com
CODA COLLECTIVE DAY SPA 1146 Commerce Ave. Longview, Wash. 98632 360-425-7712 revivewellnessandaesthetics@outlook.com LEXINGTON MINIT MART Jodi Anshutz Manager 110 Sparks Dr. Kelso, Wash. 98626 360-423-8290 Lexingtonmm46@live.com
HILANDER PAINTING Kevin Kennedy Owner 2833 Florida St. Longview, Wash. 98632 360-560-2905 Kevinkennedy2905@gmail.com
SAVE UP TO 50% ON
Your Electric Heating Bill!
LeeRoy Parcel Manager/LPO leeroy@cascade-title.com
Ductless heating and cooling systems provide year-round comfort and saves you up to 50% on your electric heating bill. With an $800 rebate from Cowlitz PUD, installing a ductless heat pump has never been this easy and affordable.
Get started now by finding an experienced local installer at GoingDuctless.com 30 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Alison Peters Bonnie Woodruff Diane Kenneway Dennis Bird Escrow Officer/LPO Escrow Officer/LPO Escrow Assistant Senior Title Officer alison@cascade-title.com bonnie@cascade-title.com diane@cascade-title.com dennis@cascade-title.com
Lindsey McTimmonds Marketing/Recording recording@cascade-title.com
1425 Maple St. Longview, WA 98632 360.425.2950 www.cascade-title.com
Connie Bjornstrom Receptionist/Typist connie@cascade-title.com
Join the Chamber Today! Call 360-423-8400 Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.
• Use of Chamber Logo Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.
• Annual Meeting and Banquet • Networking Events • Committee Participation • Business Contacts
• Legislative Representation • Issues Tracking and Information
• Quarterly Membership
• Task Forces
Meetings
• Candidate Forums
• Civic Representation
• Legislative Update Breakfast
• Monthly Business After Hours Business Services include marketing for your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data. • Mailing Labels • Membership Window Decals • Member Referrals • Ribbon Cutting • Website Links • Member to Member Discounts • Membership Directory • Tax Deduction • Newsletter • Business Card Display
• Demographics Publication
Packages Basic Membership Package – $275 or $26 per month. Bronze Membership Package – $500 or $46.66 per month. Silver Membership Package – $1,000 or $86.33 per month. Gold Membership Package – $2,500 or $211.33 per month. Platinum Membership Package – $5,000 or $416.66 per month. Diamond Club Membership Package – $10,000 or $834 per month. Nonprofit Package – $180 or $18 per month.
Residential & Commercial gro.n.control@gmail.com
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 31
Chamber Connection
Lifetime Learners
Christi Brittain from the Emergency Support Shelter celebrated October as National Domestic Violence Action month. You can call them at 360-425-1176 to find out how you can take action! Chamber CEO Bill Marcum plugged the Business Back 2 School event and Isabelle Zehnder from Positive Child Care Solutions talked about her in-home daycare and preschool. Isabelle can take six kids under the age of 5. Go to positivefamilysolutions.com to learn more.
“Your Chamber Connection� EVERY Wednesday Hosts of the Show: Carey Mackey, Red Canoe Credit Union ; Brooke Fisher-Clark, United Way; and Karen Sisson, NORPAC Would you like an opportunity to be on Your Chamber Connection or to have more information about the qualifications of an open house or ribbon cutting? Contact Bill or Lindsey at the Chamber 360-423-8400 32 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
Chamber Connection
Fundamentals and Food
Paul Youmans spoke about October's "Shake, Rattle, and Roll," 5th annual Infant through Kindergarten Conference and then Nathan with the BackStage CafĂŠ came to celebrate their one-year anniversary as a Italian restaurant. Did you know they are open for lunch Monday through Friday?
Stream live at www.threeriversradio.com Local guest and current events
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 33
Welcome Back!
The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce would like to give a SHOUT OUT and a big THANK YOU to the following loyal members for renewing their partnership with us. *American Medical Response *Beacon Hill Sewer District *Cascade Title Company *CCS *City of Kelso *City of Longview *Comcast Spotlight *Costco Wholesale *Cowlitz County *Cowlitz County CASA *Cowlitz County PUD *Cowlitz County Title Company *Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments *David E. Houten, DDS *Diamond Showcase *Document Management Archives *Dorothy Bain Hanson *Emerald Kalama Chemical *Express Employment Professionals *Freddy’s Just for The Halibut *Gordon Sondker *Interwest Benefit Consultants *KapStone *Koelsch Senior Communities *L.G. Isaacson Company *Longview Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Crematory *Lower Columbia College *Miller Paint *Pacific Tech Construction, Inc. *Port of Longview *Rodman Realty, Inc. *Steel Painters/Railco *Swanson Bark & Wood Products, Inc. *The Golden Palace *The Red Hat *Three Rivers Eye Care *Walstead Mertsching, PS *Watkins Tractor & Supply Co. *Columbia River Carpet One *Compendium Consulting *Cowlitz County Guidance Association *Estetica Day Spa *State Farm Insurance – Scott Fischer *Diamond Residential *Applied Application *Broderick Gallery *American Legion *Coleman Cellular
*Port of Woodland *Cowlitz Credit Union *Industrial Packing *Pacific Fibre Products *Errand Girl *American Family Kari-Ann Botero *Guild Mortgage *Hometown National Bank *Island Sun Tanning, Inc. *Kemira Water *Sterling Insurance *U.S. Cellular *United States Army *Lexi’s Pizza *B & B Air Conditioning & Heating *Community Health Partners/Cowlitz Free Medical Clinic *Pro-Caliber Longview Motorsports *Red Canoe Credit Union Washington Way *Red Leaf Coffee *BA Design *American Red Cross *Esteem Salon *Hydraulic Service, Inc. *ProBuild *B & R Mini Storage *Banda’s Bouquets *Be Cause Business Resources, Inc. *Best Western Aladdin Inn *Busack Electric *Calportland *Columbia Security *Copies Today Speedy Litho, Inc. *Cowlitz Container & Diecutting *Edward Jones-Nick Lemiere *H & S Enterprises *Habitat For Humanity Cowlitz County *Hart Radiator *Heartsong Massage *J. L. Storedahl & Sons, Inc. *Kaiser Permanente *Les Schwab Tire Center *Longview Timber Corp *Longview Urology *Ocean Beach Self Storage *P. T. Northwest *Pacific Office Automation *Papa Pete’s Pizza – Longview *PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
34 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
*Pets, Pawns & Imports *SW Washington Symphony *The UPS Store *TSYS Merchant Solutions *Washington State University Vancouver *Zip Local *Berkshire Hathaway *Cowlitz River Dental *Altrusa International Inc. of Longview-Kelso *Be Cause Business Resources, Inc. *Canterbury Inn *Columbia Ford Hyundai Nissan *Ecological Land Services, Inc. *Eoff Electric Company *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Main Branch *Jansen Flowers & Gift Gallery *KLOG/KUKN/the WAVE Radio Stations *Longview Radiologists, P.S., Inc. *Omelets & More *PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center Foundation *Suburban Propane *Take Shape for Life with Brenda Courser *Teri's Restaurant *Dream Dentistry *Reality Homes *Longview Eagles *Service Master *Ricoh *Planet Fitness *WA Division of Vocational Rehabilitation *Acupuncture Northwest *Budget Blinds of Longview *Columbia Bank - Longview Branch *Columbia Funeral Service *Columbia River Mill Outlet *Columbia Wellness *Continental Investors Services, Inc. *DeFrancisco Lampitt and Brado PS *DSU Peterbilt *Fire Mountain Grill & Summerland Catering Services *G L Booth ~ J G Davis & Associates *Green Hills Crematory - Cascade NW Funeral Chapel *Kay Green *Lower Columbia Contractors Association
Welcome Back! *Signature Transport, Inc. *State Farm Insurance - Scott Fischer *Teague's Interiors *ASAP Business Solutions *My Agency *Area Agency on Aging Disabilities of Southwest Washington *Dino Doozer *Windemere Kelso-Longview *Advanced Dental Services, LLC *All Out Sewer & Drain Service, Inc. *Baker Lumber Company, Inc. *Brusco Tug and Barge, Inc. *Carl's Towing Service & Repair, Inc. *Carlson's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. *Cascade Natural Gas Corporation *Coldwell Banker Bain *Cole's Appliance Repair *Comfort Inn *Community Home Health & Hospice *Cutright Wholesale Plumbing Supply *Family Health Center *Interiors Plus *Life Works *Longview Housing Authority *Longview Orthopedic Associates, PLLC *Longview Public Schools *Masthead Restaurant *McDonald's of Longview *McDonald's of Longview II *Nipp & Tuck Inc. *Ocean Beach Animal Hospital *Pacific Fibre Products, Inc. *Paperbacks Galore, Inc. *Rush Insurance/Financial Services, Inc. *Schlecht Construction, Inc. *Somerset Retirement Home and Assisted Living *T.C.'s R.V. & Mini Storage, Inc. *United Finance *Viking Automatic Sprinkler Company *Wasser & Winters Company *William (B. J. ) R. Boatsman *Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce *Interstate Wood Products, Inc. *Kalama Chamber of Commerce *Lower Columbia CAP *M & R Painting, Inc. *Mint Valley Federal Credit Union *Newrock Homes, Inc. *Northwest Auto Specialist, Inc. *Retirement Strategies
*Simpson Timber Company - Longview Lumber Operations *Superior Tire Service, Inc. *Woodland Chamber of Commerce *Longview Outdoor Gallery *The OM Home *Triangle Bowl *Cowlitz County Chaplaincy *Biggs Insurance Services *Clay Bartness *Comcast *Dick Hannah Toyota *Fred Meyer, Inc. *Heritage Bank - Kelso *Heritage Bank - Longview *Longview Engineering And Design *McCord Bros. Nissan Dodge *Millennium Bulk Terminals *Minuteman Press *Professional Communication Services *Servpro of Longview/Kelso *Sierra Pacific Mortgage *Twin City Bank *Waste Control Recycling, Inc. *Woodford Commercial Real Estate *Bicoastal Media LV DBA KLYK/KRQT/ KEDO/KBAM/KPPK *Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts *Craig Stein Beverage *Dahl McVicker Funeral Homes *Entek Corporation *Frontier Rehabilitation & Extended Care Center *Gibbs & Olson, Inc. *Humane Society of Cowlitz County *Lemondrops Photography *Life Mortgage *Music & More D.J.s *Noelle McLean, PS *Office Depot Max *Pacific Lumber & Shipping Co. *PapĂŠ Machinery *PNE Construction *Red Canoe Credit Union *Red Canoe Credit Union - 30th *Safway Services, Inc. *Searing Electric & Plumbing *Steele Chapel Longview Memorial Park *The Dog Zone *Umpqua Bank *Utilize I.T., Inc. *Walmart
*Animal Health Services, Inc., PS *Arnitz, Suzanne *Baxter Auto Parts Inc. *Behrends Body Shop *Bob's Sporting Goods *Burger King - Longview (Main) *Collins Architectural Group, PS *Country Village Nutrition Shoppe and Cafe *Day Wireless Systems *Ethnic Support Council *Fiesta Bonita Mexican Grill & Cantina *Foster Farms *Gallery of Diamonds *Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing *Hilander Dental *Kelso Rotary *Les Schwab Tire Center *Longview Tire Sales, Inc. *Northwest Motor Service *Overhead Door Company of Southwest Washington *Peter C. Wagner, DMD, PS *Propel Insurance *Shamrock Spirits & Grill *Shirley L. Smith *Stirling Honda *Sweet Spot Frozen Yogurt *Taco Time *The Daily News *The Roof Doctor, Inc. *Twin City Glass Co. *Twin City Service Co. *Weatherguard, Inc. *Wilcox & Flegel Oil Company *WorkPlace Wellness *WorkSource - Cowlitz/Wahkiakum *Brown & Brown Northwest Insurance *Corwin Beverage *Cowlitz River Rigging, Inc. *Educational Service District No. 112 *Emergency Support Shelter *Fairway Collections *Futcher Group *Hart C's Steakburger & Thai Food *Kelso School District *Kelso Theater Pub *Kelso-Longview Television, Inc. *KeyBank *Longview Early Edition Rotary *Longview Eye & Vision *Longview Physical & Sports Therapy
November 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 35
Welcome Back! *Longview Self Storage * Mobile Mic Entertainment *Northwest Hardwoods, Inc. *Opsahl, Dawson & Company, P.S. *Renaud Electric Company, Inc. *Reprographics, Inc. *Solvay *Southwest Washington Blood Program *United Way of Cowlitz & Wahkiakum Counties *Willamette Dental *Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC *Better Business Bureau *C's Photography *Cadillac Island Casino *Cowlitz County Museum *Cowlitz Economic Development Council *Cowlitz Indian Tribe *Epson Portland *Erickson Glass Co. *Estetica Day Spa *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Castle Rock Branch *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Kelso Branch *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Ocean Beach
Branch *Fibre Federal Credit Union - West Kelso Branch *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Woodland Branch *Guesthouse Inn & Suites *Kellogg Supply, Inc. *Longview Country Club *Lower Columbia Economic Development Council *Motion Industries, Inc. *Mount St. Helens Creation Information Center *N.W. Deli Distribution, Inc. *Pathways 2020 *Prestige Senior Living Monticello Park *Progress Center *Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center *Riverview Community Bank *Sessions Plumbing & Heating, Inc. *Three Rivers Christian School *Timothy E. Nelson, DDS *Weyerhaeuser OUR LATEST RENEWING MEMBERS *Advanced Message & Dispatch
We look forward to handling your next real estate transaction. Our Escrow Team… Why Our Service is the Difference! Since 1982, Cowlitz County Title has been the trusted company the community turns to when buying, selling or refinancing a property. Whether you need title, escrow or property search information, come in for our exceptionalservice. Leave with the secure confidence that your real estate investment is properly insured and protected. Title Insurance Escrow Service ■ Residential & Commercial ■ 1031 Exchange ■ Locally Owned
Bianca Lemmons VP/Manager/LPO
Deanna Cornelison Escrow Officer
Shelby Caufman Escrow Officer
Linda Comley Escrow Officer/LPO
Leah Stanley Escrow Assistant
Rita Lawrence Escrow Assistant
Kristy Norman Escrow Assistant
■ ■
1159 14th Avenue, Longview, WA 98632 ■ Phone: 360.423.5330 ■ www.cowlitztitle.com 36 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | November 2016
*Beacon Hill Rehabilitation *Bob Beal Insurance Agency Inc. – State Farm *Building Industry Association of Clark County *Cascade Networks, Inc. *Cascade Select Market *Columbia River Reader *Davis & Associates, CPAs, PS *Eldon Robbins Auto Sales, Inc. *Goodwill of the Olympics and Rainier Region *Longview Downtowners *Longview Pawnbrokers & Bail Bonds *North Pacific Paper Corporation/NORPAC *Performance Sheet Metal, Inc. *Prographyx *Snap Fitness *Stageworks Northwest *Stewart Title *Super 8 of Kelso/Longview *Three Rivers Mall *Youth & Family Link