KLCC June 2016

June 2016

Business Connection

Volume 8, Issue 6

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

2016 Ambassadors were awarded a special tribute for their dedication to the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce.

I

Community big winner after Chamber awards

t was another phenomenal night, as the Chamber of Commerce handed out its 2016 Crystal Apple Education Awards and the Pillars of Strength Business Awards before a packed house May 26 at the Cowlitz Regional Conference Center.

The annual event pays tribute to those who toil in the trenches to make the communities of Kelso and Longview great places to work, play, visit and raise families. In addition to honoring the movers and shakers, the Chamber and the Lower Columbia Professionals awarded 17 graduating high school seniors with $17,000 worth of scholarships.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Team Bill Marcum, CEO Karen Sisson, 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 To advertise, call Bill Marcum, 360-423-8400 or e-mail bmarcum@ kelsolongviewchamber.org Ad Deadline: 20th of each month

“Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of this year’s awards,” Chamber CEO Bill Marcum said.

“The Chamber appreciates the opportunity to acknowledge the business leaders and educators what make our community an exceptional place to live, work and play. Our community is the real winner tonight to have such great leadership, pride and dedication.”

For a complete list of winners, see page 2 and 7

Chamber Crystal Apple Award Winners

K-12 Classified Person of the Year – Vicki White, Cascade Middle School paraeducator; Kelly Toftemark, Kelso High School registrar K-12 Teacher of the Year – Jon Webb, Butler Acres Elementary School physical education teacher K-12 Administrator of the Year – John Gummel, Kelso High School principal Higher Education Classified Person of the Year – Jenny Smith, Lower Columbia College program coordinator Higher Education Person of the Year –Terri Skeie, Lower Columbia College math teacher Workforce Best Practice Education Individual Achievement – Katie Powers, Fibre Federal Credit Union Workforce Best Practice Education Business Achievement – Weyerhaeuser, Columbia Timberlands Marie Harris Scholarships, worth $1,000 each, to: Rachel Schmaltz, RA Long High School; RaeAnn Nelmark, Mark Morris High School; Mickaela Elo, Mark Morris High School; Dexter Patterson, Kalama High School.

Lower Columbia Professionals Scholarship, 11 worth $1,000 and two valued at $500, to: Julia Plough, Mark Morris High School; Benjamin Sprague, Mark Morris High School; Nicholas Rinck, Mark Morris High School; Grace Kinch, Kelso High School; Maycie Norman, Kelso High School; Samantha Olsen, RA Long High School; Hannah Pithan, RA Long High School; Shelby Dollemore, RA Long High School; Olivia Walters, Kelso High School; Kaylee Hatfield, Toutle Lake High School; Rayne Heath, Kelso High School; Jewelia LaRoy, homeschool; Karen Ngo, Mark Morris High School.

2 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

2016 Small Business

BOOT CAMP CONTINUES

Friday Mornings ★ Lower Columbia College

7:30 am - 9 am ★ Heritage Room at LCC - Admin. Bldg.

Sponsored by:

$100 Six Classes - up to three people can attend from your business - $5.50 per person! How can you not attend?

May 6

business basics 101 six pack No Cost Marketing Facilitator: Russ Meder, My Agency

May 13

Minimum Wage $13.50, How do you survive?

Facilitator: Gary Chandler, Moses Lake Business Owner and VP for AWB.

May 20

Customer Service Facilitator: Chris Bailey, President, Lower Columbia College

May 27

Health Care – Which describes you?

Number of Employees: 25 or less? 25 – 50?

Over 50? Self-employed?

Facilitator: David Taylor, Taylor Insurance

June 17

Pricing for Profit Facilitator: Jerry Petrick, SBDC

June 24

What’s your strategy?

Facilitator: Jerry Petrick, SBDC

Call today to sign up! 360-423-8400 or register online at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org

Cowlitz Economic Development Council

By Ted Sprague

Executive Director

Partnership leads to success On Friday, May 20, the Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB) announced the approval of our application for $2.1 million in funding for congestion relief and safety improvements at the intersection of State Route 432/411 (Tennant Way off/on ramps and 3rd Avenue). Taking the lead in the presentation before the subcommittee of the FMSIB Board was County Commissioner Dennis Weber and City of Longview Public Works Director Jeff Cameron.

Their thoughtful and informative presentation of our project’s purpose and need was the reason our application rose to the top and was approved by the full board.

County, the cities of Kelso and Longview, the Port of Longview, the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments, the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Economic Development Council work together! Everyone I work with in that group has the same vision and goal that the entire region will move forward because we collaborate. No entity out of the group expects accolades or headlines over any other. We work together, share resources and to this point, we have made great strides because of our commitment to partnership. It is truly inspiring to work with such selfless people and organizations.

This collaboration of effort by many entities in our area is another example of why we must work together to forward economic development in Cowlitz County. The history of success we have with the work done on SR 432/433, channel deepening and other infrastructure projects prove time and time again we win when we work together. This most recent accomplishment happened because the

The mountain is not summited yet. There is still a lot of work to do in order to rectify the safety and congestion issues we face in order to allow for more economic development along the corridor, but with our strong collaborations and history of success I have no doubt, we will continue to succeed and ultimately, bring more jobs to the Cowlitz County.

Your Locally Owned and Operated Community Bank • Checking, Savings and CDs • Business Loans • Construction Loans • SBA Loans 729 Vandercook Way, Longview

(360) 414-4101 www.twincitybank.com

There’s a Difference.

4 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Calendar Wednesday June 1 – 7:30 am Education Committee LCC Student Center Friday June 3 – 7:30 am Boot Camp – Business Basics Pricing for Profit LCC Heritage Room

Chamber CEO’s Message

By Bill Marcum

Honoring business and education leaders a rewarding task

Thursday June 9 – 7:30 am Ambassador Committee Canterbury Park

May 26 was a great night for business and education in Kelso and Longview. We had more than 240 people attend the Pillars of Strength and Crystal Apple awards. What makes this night so special is a room packed with people who give 100 percent to their jobs, business, friends, neighbors to these two communities. The cheers as nominees were announced and the roar of the ovation when the winners were named was astounding. I did not think it could get better than last year and yet it did.

Friday June 10 – 7:30 am Boot Camp – Business Basics What’s Your Strategy?

LCC Heritage Room

Cyndi Pollard, principal Evergreen Christian School, was our emcee again this year and she did a fantastic job keeping the evening rolling, while also making it light and meaningful.

Monday June 6 – 1 pm Annual Golf Classic Three Rivers Golf Course

Tuesday June 17 – 5:30 pm Business After Hours Koelsch Senior Communities Canterbury Park 1335 3rd Avenue, Longview Wednesday June 29 – 11:45am to 1:30pm Quarterly Membership Meeting State of County Kelso Longview Elks Lodge 900 Ash Street, Kelso Every Wednesday Chamber Connections KEDO/1400 AM – 3-4 pm Stream live at www.threeriversradio.com

Mike Randall with the Cowlitz County Conference Center and his staff did a great job of setting up the tables, stage, screens, microphones and arranging, and rearranging, almost up to the final minute, as we scrambled for more seating. Mike Cassetta with Summerland Catering and his staff provided a fabulous meal with great service from all the servers and bartenders. Thank you to both Mikes. We really appreciate the support and service you provide.

One of my favorite parts of the evening is bringing our scholarship winners on stage and providing them with a $1,000 certificate to be used for their college education next year. Three years ago the Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s Lower Columbia Professionals group gave away three, $750 scholarships. This year we handed out 17 scholarships totaling $17,000. Wow, it was awesome seeing our young people on stage and hearing about their future plans. To top off the evening, we offered our table centerpieces from Jansen Flowers to a person sitting at each of the 31 tables for a donation with

all proceeds going to next year’s scholarship fund. In just a few minutes, we raised $750, nearly enough for one scholarship. Thank you to everyone who put some money in the envelopes. We are off to a great start toward providing even more scholarships next year.

This event doesn’t happen without the help of sponsors to offset some of the expenses, pay for the student scholarship honorees and their families to attend the evening, and help hold the cost down to all the others who purchase tickets to attend. A huge thank you to PeaceHealth, C’s Photography, KUKN/KLOG/The WAVE, Red Canoe, Davis and Associates, Jansen Flowers, Three Rivers Mall, Shamrock Grill, Millennium, Foster Farms, BiCoastal Media, Minuteman Press and LifeWorks.

I also need to give a big thank you to the Education Committee for all the hard work – long hours of poring over nominees, reviewing scholarship applications and narrowing the field down to the winners... a very difficult thing to do with so much talent and need out there.

Last, and certainly not least, a big thank you, way to go, GREAT JOB, all those things, to Karen Sisson, project manager with the Kelso Longview Chamber. The awards are our largest event with the most people attending and the coordination of nominees, winners, scholarship winners, scholarship winners’ parents, the food, the venue and all those who purchase tickets. Thank you Karen...job well done. As many of you know Karen is moving on in her career to NORPAC after the golf tournament on June 6. She has done an AMAZING job during her two years at the Chamber...she will be missed immensely.

Thank you Karen.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 5

Quarterly Meeting

Elks Lodge—Kelso

900 Ash St, Kelso, WA Wednesday, June 29, 2016 11:45 a.m. –1:30 p.m.

Commissioner Mike Karnofski

Commissioner Dennis Weber

Commissioner Joe Gardner

You are invited to attend the Kelso Longview Chamber’s 2nd Quarterly Membership Meeting.

Please join us as we hear from our county commissioners about everything from the budget, to parks, to personnel challenges, to the new manufacturing businesses that are trying to making Cowlitz County home and how partnerships are helping to grow our county out of the recession.

Yes, something new!!!

The Kelso Longview Chamber will be hosting the Cowlitz County Commissioners Wednesday, June 29 at the Elks Lodge in Kelso. We are excited to work with one of our newest members the Kelso and Longview Elks.

$20 in advance/$30 at door (Price includes lunch buffet)

Register at www.kelsolongviewchamber.org

Chamber Pillars of Strength Business Award Winners Small Non-Profit of the Year – Lower Columbia School Gardens, Ian Thompson, executive director Large Nonprofit of the Year – Youth and Family Link, Stephen Watters, executive director Small Business of the Year – C’s Photography, Don and Cassandra Cianci, owners Large Business of the Year – Red Canoe Credit Union, Dave Spaulding, president/CEO Business Person of the Year – Chris Roewe, Woodford Commercial Real Estate Rising Star Award – Shawn Green, ServPro Walt Naze Ambassador of the Year – Carrie Medack, Diamond Residential Mortgage

Carrie Medack

Life Time Achievement Award – Darlene de Vida, dean of instruction, Lower Columbia College

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

A Full Service Civil Law Firm for over 90 Years CIVIC CENTER BUILDING, 3RD FLOOR 1700 HUDSON ST., LONGVIEW, WA

(360) 423-5220 Longview www.walstead.com June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 7

Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council

By Julia Maglione

Communications Manager

Woodland company is first YesVets recipient in SW Washington Hiring veterans is nothing new for Tribeca Transport of Woodland, a company founded in 1947 that specializes in management and transport of bio-solids and food waste recycling. Approximately 30 percent of its employees are veterans.

What is new, however, is a program called YesVets that recognizes the commitment of businesses to hiring veterans by providing them a decal to display at their establishment.

To participate in the program, a company simply signs up at www.

YesVets.org and provides information about veterans they’ve hired since February 1. A WorkSource representative then contacts them to arrange the details of the decal presentation.

Tribeca recently hired three veterans (two CDL drivers and a mechanic). Working with WorkSource Cowlitz-Wahkiakum, they received on-the-job training funds to upgrade the CDL skills of one of the veterans.

Companies that hire veterans may also qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), a Federal tax credit available to employers who hire and retain veterans and individuals from other target groups with significant barriers to employment.

The amount of federal tax savings varies from $1,500 to $9,600 depending on the wages paid to the new hire and the number of hours worked during the first year of employment.

WOTC reduces the cost of doing business and applying is easy.

There is no limit on the number of individuals that can be hired to qualify to claim the tax credit, and there are a few simple steps to follow to apply. Learn more at https://www.doleta.gov/business/incentives/opptax/.

For Tribeca Transport, having so many veterans as employees contributes to camaraderie because they share common ground and a common language.

Tribeca Chief Operating Officer Eric Thwaites, an Army veteran, notes that he finds many qualities in veterans that he shares regarding philosophies around training, discipline and leadership.

Eric Thwaites, chief operating officer, of Tribeca Transport; former Marine Chris DeWitt, one of the three veterans recently hired and a diesel mechanic; Mike Behrman, Tribeca president; and Michael Benko, WorkSource veterans employment representative. wa.gov or 360-735-5015.

YesVets is a statewide campaign to hire veterans, supported by Employment Security Department in partnership with Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Commerce, Washington State Military Transition Council and local chambers of commerce, supporting House Bill 2040. For information about the YesVets program, go to https://esd.wa.gov/yesvets.

To learn about Tribeca Transport, see http://www.behrmantransport.com/About-Us.html.

“Nearly every branch of the service is represented at Tribeca, except Coast Guard and Air Force,” said Thwaites. “Hiring veterans has been good to us; I’d like to get it to 40 percent or more.”

Veterans are excellent job candidates as they are experienced and have: • The ability to rapidly adapt and adopt new skills.

• A strong sense of personal integrity and accountability.

• Training in many skills that can be invaluable in today’s labor market.

To learn more about hiring Veterans, contact Michael Benko, WorkSource Veterans Employment Representative, at mbenko@esd.

8 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Residential & Commercial gro.n.control@gmail.com

CANTERBURY

NO REGISTRATION FEE

Grand Reopening

PARK

A Koelsch Community

June 14

Chamber After 60 Years Hours & Ribbon Longview’s Finest Independent Living Community Cutting Come see our $9 million expansion & enhancement project For Nearly

Tuesday, June 14, 2016 ~ 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Enjoy Hors d’oeuvres, Refreshments and Tours.

Featuring Wonderful Door Prizes:

(Shuttle Service from the Expo Center)

• $300 Cannon Beach Getaway • $200 Estetica Day Spa • Gift Baskets .....and more!

RSVP appreciated by June 10th

(360) 501-5100

CANTERBURY PARK DISTINCTIVE INDEPENDENT LIVING • HMS Victory Bistro • Craft Studio • Wood Working Shop

1335 3rd ave. • Longview, WA • www.canterburyparkwashington.com

Lower Columbia College

By Chris Bailey

President

Local education and training opportunities save time and money Investing in employee development is not optional in today’s global marketplace, yet keeping up with training needs can be a major stressor for employers large and small. In addition to the actual cost of training, travel expenses and loss of productivity while employees are away can eat away at your bottom line.

Some employers have turned to commercial online training to help trim training costs, but the virtual environment is not always optimal for employee development. You may also find that out-of-the-box, for-profit training is too generic and impersonal for your needs.

It could be that a customized solution delivered locally is a better fit for you, your profit-and-loss statement, and your employees. Lower Columbia College’s Corporate and Continuing Education Department works with local businesses like yours to develop tailored training opportunities that meet your needs. As an added benefit, your tax dollars stay local and support your amazing community college!

Whether you need to develop leaders for tomorrow, keep up

with changing technology, or implement new technical skills in your workforce, we may be able to help. Please visit lowercolumbia.edu/corporate-continuing-education to learn more about our customized training options. You can also call us at 360-442-2600 or email lamundson@lowercolumbia.edu for more information.

For your employees who are ready for the next step educationally, we now offer 11 bachelor’s degrees and two master’s degrees through the Lower Columbia Regional University Center, including a Master of Business Administration from Eastern Washington University and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Warner Pacific. Most programs offered through the University Center are designed to accommodate working adults. For more information, please visit lowercolumbia.edu/u-center or call 360-353-7800.

Let’s work together to take your business to the next level, without breaking the bank.

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

10 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 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

Kelso-Longview Chamber

Business Connection Over 5,000 email addresses each month!

Advertise your business for as little as

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Attention Business Owners

Make

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Let’s step up and make our businesses look great to the many friends and guests that visit our community each year.

Mint Valley Golf Course

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

Size 1/16 Page 1/8 Page 1/4 Page 1/2 Page Full Page

1 - 3 Issues 4-7 Issues 8-10 Issues 12 Issues $110 $90 $70* $50* $175 $140 $105* $75* $205 $170 $140* $100* $325 $290 $245* $190* $625 $570 $480* $400*

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 Karen Sisson at 360-423-8400 or ksisson@kelsolongviewchamber.org or CEO Bill Marcum at 360-423-8400 or bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org

Government Affairs Committee

By Ken Grams

Chair/CEO KinetiQ Group

Where does the money go?

So where does the money go…or where might the $$$ go later?

We vote for, or support, our politicians or government officials with their endeavors or programs to better our community, state, or nation. Though the support isn’t always voluntary, such as taxes, fees, or fines…it’s done simply because somebody’s got to pay $$$ for it.

Yes, things change and something happens…a new politician, change in government, different official, promoted official, an appointment, and the list goes on and on. While we want to believe this only happens in Olympia and in Washington, D.C., it happens in Cowlitz County too – a new county commissioner, city council member, city manager, etc.

Recently, the Longview City Council considered changing an ordinance to allow using the public safety fund to renovate its main police station. Apparently, “the station renovation has been planned since Longview police moved into the building 17 years ago.”1 However, we are just now considering the $$$ to pay for it and it’s now “urgent”?

Don’t get me wrong…the community has confidence in Police

Chief Jim Duscha and that this remodel is well overdue. Also, supporting law enforcement to reduce crime must remain a high priority today and tomorrow for quality of place (home and business). However, a community must have confidence in not needing to worry every four years, or that it’s going to hear, “...current council cannot bind a future council from making different decisions.” Just as consistency can be good in business, it also can be good in government.

While I’ve personally been a supporter of the traffic camera on at least one speedy occasion, I would prefer we work smarter to identify better long-term solutions to fund capital projects.

Though this particular diversion of $$$ did not pass2, it should not have been proposed to begin with after 17 years of “planning”.

Be excited to “get involved” and “be heard” to make a difference on business related topics or issues that are important to you, your family, and generations to come.

1 The Daily News article “Longview to consider use of public safety fund for policy”, dated May 24, 2016 2

http://tdn.com/traffic-camera-money-won-t-be-used-for-remodel-police/

article_6f90d4b8-4826-548a-ba31-5a8910aecfad.html

LeeRoy Parcel Manager/LPO leeroy@cascade-title.com

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

12 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

1425 Maple St. Longview, WA 98632 360.425.2950 www.cascade-title.com

Connie Bjornstrom Receptionist/Typist connie@cascade-title.com

By Chuck Nau

Retail Consultant and Sales and Managment Trainier – Murray & Nau, Inc.

Coupons...Don’t Count!

Did you schedule or place a coupon advertisement for your business, today?

Did you schedule a coupon ad with your local newspaper or in some other media to count responses or in other words, to measure or track your advertising in that particular media?

If you did, you may be putting your advertising investment, your business’ image and reputation, and your own personal and business success AT RISK! Coupons...Don’t Count!

Coupons are a promotional tool. Coupons give bearers of the coupon an extra bonus, typically, in the form of a price reduction, and to promote a specific product or promotion within their business or service franchise for a limited time basis.

Coupons...Don’t Count!

Coupons are a call to action used by knowledgeable businesses to motivate potential buyers to act now to receive a limited offer or price or to participate in a time sensitive promotional event.

Coupons may also bring in a less profitable customer.

Coupons...Don’t Count!

Coupons should NOT be used by a small business, retailer or service provider to count responses or to track “so-called results” in a particular media vehicle (...direct mail, online, magazine, newspaper). If a retailer or potential advertiser wishes to count or TRACK response to a particular advertisement or a series of ads, the retailer should monitor a variable (total number of transactions, sales totals for ALL inventory, sales totals for ADVERTISED item(s) or revenue) over a given time period.

In other words, a good method to track advertising effectiveness is to track revenue changes. Two weeks PRIOR to scheduling their first ad in an advertising campaign, the retailer should review total revenue for the entire store in a given time period (e.g. each day). The retailer should then monitor total revenue DURING the advertising campaign (e.g. while the ads are running) and, finally, the retailer should analyze total revenue for the entire store in the same given time period (e.g. each day) two weeks AFTER the ad campaign is completed.

In this manner, the retailer is able to observe any revenue shifts due, in part, to their advertising investment.

Many variables may affect the response to a retailer’s coupon offer – price, merchandise, percent of discount offered, coupon face value, store inventory, media used, weather, competitive offerings and location of the coupon within the media (...location on the page, page location within the vehicle, coupon location among other coupons within the vehicle). Additionally, market charac-

teristics or demos may preclude high coupon redemption plus the age old adage...“I forgot it!”

Coupons...Don’t Count!

Coupons are a promotional tool. When a retailer or potential advertiser considers using a coupon, he is reducing his profitability on that particular product or service. Non-coupon ads that include a simple, easily recognizable layout, with a dominant element (illustration/artwork) or theme, and an attention-grabbing benefit headline may generate a more loyal and profitable customer!

If you or your business are planning on using a coupon in your advertising, be sure to ascertain what marketing strategy you want to accomplish by using a coupon. Using a coupon to motivate customers, who may be less profitable to your business, for a one time visit or purchase may significantly impact your bottom line.

Don’t forget the value equation. A business that guarantees lowest price or features continual sale efforts will need a larger dollar investment in advertising to continually reinforce this message.

When you advertise price, or if you are only selling price you have to continue to lower the price, or come up with enhanced incentives, on an ongoing basis in order to continue building your customer base.

Whereas, if you advertise value...the benefits of the merchandise you offer or the service you provide...via a consistent and ongoing advertising CAMPAIGN as opposed to a single ad or single ad insertion, your advertising dollar investment will reap greater rewards (e.g. growth!) for you, your business, your employees and ultimately, your community.

Coupons...Don’t Count! © 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.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 13

PeaceHealth

By Kirk Raboin

Chief Administrative Officer, PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center

A healthy, happy Father’s Day The month of June brings us closer to summer and also is the month where we have Father’s day – a celebration to honor fathers, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers on and in society.

Even simple steps can make a difference. Here’s a few ideas to “get” you started.

My own father has had such a great impact on who I’ve become as a man and the kind of father I wanted to be to my own children. Of course, the pace years back was a bit slower and families took time to eat together, work together, and had more time together at home.

• Get a checkup. Early detection is a key to prevention and treatment and extending life.

Today, families have more pressures and interruptions with all the electronic devices, gadgets, and other distractions that impact our lives. Still, there’s wisdom from those simpler times that we can adapt to our busy days such as taking time for your kids – turn off the TV and tune into each other, especially during meals. Eating a meal together has always been a great way for families to connect and talk about their day and share in their experiences growing up.

June also brings Men’s Health Month and it’s a great time to set a healthy tone for your children and lead by example. Working in the health field, I’ve seen firsthand the results of unhealthy lifestyles such as heart disease and diabetes to name just a couple.

• Get moving! Walking is a great start and our Lake Sacajawea is beautiful this time of year. Obesity rates are increasing at younger and younger ages. Dads get out there and get moving with your kids. You’ll be healthier and happier and creating some great memories.

• Get more color on your plate. Grab an apple instead of a bag of chips, throw some veggies on the grill, or visit a farmer’s market for fresh, local produce – it’s a great family outing.

Making this year a healthier one is one of the best gifts you can give your family. Starting the journey is also one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

I wish all you dads the best of health on Father’s Day.

Leave your joint pain behind You’ve got more important things to do with your time. Joint replacement can help you leave the painful ache of arthritis behind. Take the next step at peacehealth.org/ortho.

14 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Mind Your Own Business (at the Library)

By Chris Skaugset

Director – Longview Public Library

Search provides answers to crowdfunding, retirement, junk As I was preparing to write this column, I decided that I wanted to talk about some of our newer books, but I really didn’t have any single topic in mind so I did a general keyword search in the library catalog using the word business. As anyone who has searched using Google, or any number of other search engines, knows when you put in a broad term you get all sorts of things. Half the fun is finding those interesting things that you find serendipitously while searching for something else. I focused on the things that came out this year, and that I hadn’t already talked about, and found four interesting titles that I wanted to share with you this month.

The first is the one book that is truly written for small business owners and those entrepreneurs who are considering starting a business. It’s called, The Crowdfunding Handbook: Raise Money for your Small Business or Start-Up with Equity Funding Portals by Cliff Ennico. The author is a former Wall Street lawyer, and an expert in e-commerce, and discusses how crowdfunding can be used to raise small business capital. Crowdfunding is the way that many different companies, groups, and individuals raise money for a specific product, project, or event utilizing the Internet and small donations (sometimes tied to rewards on some sort of scale) that allows people to “invest” in a project and help it come to fruition. In this case, Ennico is talking about the ability to crowdfund an offering of securities such as stocks and bonds made possible by the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012. He takes the reader stepby-step through the process in clear and concise English without dumbing it down. If you’ve ever considered raising funds this way, or are curious now, this is a well-done and invaluable handbook on how to make it happen.

Five Easy Theses: Commonsense Solutions to America’s Greatest Economic Challenges by James M. Stone is the next book I want to discuss. Stone is the founder and CEO of Plymouth Rock Assurance Corporation and the former chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and explores what he sees as the five major problems that the United States currently faces. These include budget deficits and unfunded future liabilities; income and wealth inequality; inadequate K-12 education and ruinously expensive college; an inefficient and expensive health-care system; and ineffective regulation of the financial sector. For each of these problems he gives the reader a number of thesis statements, giving background information and explaining what is wrong in each of these areas. Recognizing that identifying the problems is relatively easy, he is quick to point that the solutions, and he does offer potential solutions for each of these issues, is almost always difficult (especially politically) and will require tradeoffs. The strength of this book is Stone’s ability to summa-

rize these critical, yet complicated topics in easy to understand ways.

Next is Retire Inspired: It’s Not an Age, It’s a Financial Number

by Chris Hogan. As we all head toward that “magical” time of retirement, the most important thing that we can do is to be prepared financially. Hogan is a personal finance coach and is a disciple of the well-known money guy Dave Ramsey and has written both a doable and inspirational guide to retirement. He believes that these years should not be looked at as an end but as a beginning. Building upon Ramsey’s ideas for financial stability – setting up an emergency fund, getting outing of debt, and saving for retirement – Hogan focuses on motivation. The idea is to decide what your vision of a dream retirement is and then make the plans for making it happen. While this may seem unrealistic, or even foolhardy, to some, the author provides specific steps to make this a reality. Some of the items he discusses include not relying on Social Security, the dangers of not planning, the necessity of budgeting, and perhaps most interestingly the complex emotions that surround the subject of retirement. This is a fascinating, eye-opening, and practical, hands-on way for readers to learn and take responsibility for their own retirement.

Finally, I’m throwing in one that was just a fun title and covers a subject that many of us know something about and that is junk. The book is Junk: Digging through America’s Love Affair with Stuff by Alison Stewart. If you’ve paid attention to the bestseller lists you will have noticed that there have been a number of titles that are talking about de-cluttering, and by doing so simplifying and bettering, our lives. This is not one of those books. Stewart is a journalist and when she has to clear out her late parents’ basement, she decides to explore this topic further. Of course, what makes something junk is in the eye of the beholder. Ranging from real pack rats (the rodents), to people whose businesses are made by hauling away other people’s possession, to space junk and junk mail, Stewart covers everything junk-related in a compelling and readable book that will not only fascinate you but also make you look at everything “stuff-related” a little differently.

Thank you for letting me share this serendipitous list of books and remember that you can find these, and many, many more at your local library. Whether it’s finding a book, learning to read, improving your computer skills, or participating in one of our many programs, let us help you transform your life.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 15

County Commissioners

By Dennis Weber

County unemployment drop one of many highlights County Unemployment Steadily Drops – From a recent high of 12.2 percent in January 2013, Cowlitz County’s unemployment rates has declined 4.7 percent, according to latest statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (March 31). The current rate of 7.5 percent is not adjusted for seasonal variations, but remains about 2 percent above national figures. The county is only about 0.3 percent higher than the state figure. There are 42,324 people employed, which represents a gain of 346 in one month, and 3,359 jobs over January 2013.

The county Building and Planning Director Elaine Placido also reports steady increases in building permits issued, suggesting an improving economy and increasing consumer confidence. $2.1 Million Highway Improvement Grant – Following testimony from local leaders the state Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB) awarded the City of Longview a $2.1 million grant to realign the most dangerous intersection in the Longview freight corridor – Tennant Way and 3rd Avenue. The request will address truck tip-over accidents at the eastbound on-ramp to Tennant Way and massive traffic jams that are becoming increasingly common. An accident there was shown on WSDOT cameras in real time during the meeting just as City Public Works Director Jeff Cameron and I finished speaking. Cowlitz County provided Longview with the local match. CEDC Executive Director Ted Sprague and Longview Port Director of Facilities Bill Burton also attended in support of the request. Commissioner Mike Karnofski is a member of the state board but did not participate in their deliberations on this request. $1.9 Million in Salmon Recovery Grants – The Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board is reviewing proposals for nearly $2 million to improve fish habitat. The money comes from state and federal funds and pays for a variety of activities including construction of woody debris structures and side channels in riverbeds wiped out by splash dams 100 years ago. These temporary dams created log storage ponds that were designed to flood downstream carrying logs to mill sites prior to logging railroads and diesel trucks. But the environmental carnage to fish habitat ended spawning redds and refuges for juvenile salmon. The grants seek to restore the habitat. Commissioner Joe Gardner participated in a community tree planting at one major restoration effort located at the confluence of the North and South Forks of the Toutle River at Harry Gardner Park. $700K More in Grants Plus New Airport Tenant – The Operating Board of the Kelso Regional Airport received news recently that an important new tenant has agreed to relocate there. LifeFlight provides critical transportation for medically fragile patients by helicopter. They will be moving to Kelso this summer, closer to fuel supplies. Overnight facilities will also be built to house the crews who provide 24/7 service to the community. In other good news, hanger vacancies have virtually disappeared from the once nearly empty facility. Interim Airport Manager Steve Taylor reports that construction work is expected to begin this summer on $700,000 worth of important safety improvements 95 percent funded by the FAA and WSDOT-Aviation. These projects are new security fencing, 16 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

a new beacon tower, and removal of aging hangers that violate newer safety setbacks.

Asset Management News – The County is currently in negotiations for the sale of Hoffstadt Bluffs, the iconic visitor center, restaurant, and gift shop overlooking the North Fork of the Toutle River and Mount St. Helens. Willow Grove Park has been successfully transferred to the Port of Longview who is preparing long-needed upgrades and improvements to this popular Columbia River boat launch and park. Lots along Westside Highway, suitable for commercial development, near Riverside Park are being marketed for sale. With an increase in Medicaid enrollment (now 35,000 in Cowlitz County), the Departments of Health and Human Services have growing responsibilities and will soon be moving from its leased facility to a county-owned building just vacated by Columbia Wellness (formerly Lower Columbia Mental Health).

Law and Justice Trends – Using Office Lean strategies, several offices at the Hall of Justice have been collaborating to streamline processes, reduce unnecessary paper copying, and improve customer service. Efforts supported by County Clerk Staci Myklebust and Corrections Director Marin Fox-Haight included staff from their offices plus those from the prosecuting attorney, district court, public defenders, law enforcement records, and information technology (IT). Office Lean is an organizing tool that encourages “outside-thebox thinking,” for improving workflows by employees, liberated from being told, “because we’ve always done it that way.” A corps of trained facilitators throughout the county work force assist in the lean process. Although many reforms are invisible to customers, several offices now spotlight new friendlier reception areas.

McShane Commission Readies Recommendations – The County’s Citizens Commission on Facilities and Finance, led by CNI executive Frank McShane, has been meeting since January studying county facilities and operations. The 12 members from across the county have worked with county staff to understand financing and the recent Meng Report on Facilities for the next 20 years. The facilities report described about $100 million in needed upgrades at $5 million per year while county resources currently generate only $1.5 for capital improvements. McShane reports the group should complete their work near the end of June. Chamber Board members Joel Hanson and Neil Zick are also commission members.

County Reorganization Under Way – Recent investments in high technology improvements and Office Lean activities are providing opportunities for reorganizing county departments. With state-ofthe-art tools, county employees are able to process more information, speed up decision-making, share data between departments, and improve efficiencies. Human Resources Director Jim Zdilar has gathered recommendations from all three commissioners, comparing changes in department alignments and staffing and will be preparing a presentation during June, in time for budget updates the last half of the year.

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Business Toolbox

By Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Adviser

Is your business’ compensation program working?

As a small business owner who has ‘graduated’ to the realm of EMPLOYER you may not have taken a look at your employee compensation programs in a while. In this article we will take a brief look at some of the most important factors impacting the effectiveness of your employee compensation programs and processes.

Out of the gate I want to encourage both employers and employees to look at their ‘compensation package’ as a whole – not merely the cash compensation.

COMMON GOALS FOR MOST COMPENSATION PLANS 1) Attraction of qualified personnel from the open labor market 2) Retention of employees 3) Motivation of employees to high levels of performance Constraint: Budget Resources In addition, there are issues of compensation ‘equity’ that should be considered to enable the system to have the desired impact on your business and your employees’ behavior and morale.

FORMS OF COMPENSATION EQUITY • External equity – comparison to jobs in different organizations (information through market surveys/research) • Internal equity – comparison of different jobs within the same organization (job evaluation techniques have been developed to maintain internal equity) • Individual equity – there needs to be a distinction between high performers and low performers on the same job (merit pay systems using appraisal data, may be based on group rather than individual performance – could be a one-time bonus rather than adjustments to base salary)

• Flexibility of the system to meet changing needs, vulnerability of the system to business down-turns • Ease of communicating the system to employees.

• The ability to meet federal and state legal standards STEPS IN MARKET PRICING The key equity issue for most small businesses is external equity. Small businesses must be able to attract new employees and retain desired employees. Many small organizations have such a small number of different jobs that elaborate internal equity pricing mechanisms are not needed; market differentials are likely to reflect the organization’s hierarchy of values. Thus, a wage structure that is based on market pricing is desirable for small organizations.

The goal of market pricing techniques is to pay at some predetermined market level (for example, pay at the average market price or at the 60th percentile level) based on compensation philosophy. The market will determine all salaries for jobs for which market information is available.

Although this process may feel arduous and overkill for your small business, I think you will find that even a brief exploration in this disciplined manner will shed light on the health and appropriateness of your own compensation system. These steps are made much easier with all the online free data available: Step 1: Collection of job descriptions for each job in the organization.

The description should include: Job title, major tasks and duties, major responsibilities (for example, education, experience, special training, and licenses) Step 2: Collect market survey data for each job.

•

Area Wage Survey conducted by the Department of Labor for every Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA).

While this data is somewhat out of date by the time it is published, it can be up-graded by estimating probable change since its collection.

•

Bureau of Labor Statistics Surveys are available for a broader range of jobs.

•

Private groups publish extensive wage surveys.

•

Taking part in independent surveys in which the business shares its wage information with other organizations. Some Chambers of Commerce conduct wage surveys.

•

Informal business networks (Warning: The information may not be forthcoming or, if forthcoming, may not be ac-

BENEFIT PACKAGE CONSIDERATIONS Organizations typically are concerned only with external and, to a lesser extent, individual equity in the development of a benefit package. Most benefit packages do not differ significantly between jobs except for those that are based on some multiple of base pay (such as life insurance) and those that are reserved for a class of jobs (such as executive perquisites).

Selecting a benefit package may hinge on the following: • Applicability of the package to the number of jobs and employees in the business • Level of expertise available in setting up and maintaining the compensation system

18 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

For more Business Talk, see page 19

Business Talk, continued from page 18 curate if the survey organization is a competitor. The most serious problem in using the informal network is the possibility of charges of restraint of trade.)

Step 3: Depending on the business’ chosen competitive stance with respect to the wage level, the business can choose some level of the survey distribution of wages for each job.

That is, the competitive stance may be to meet the market, in which case the average wage gathered in the survey will become the base wage for the job. If your company wishes to be highly competitive, the 60th or 75th percentile of each job’s surveyed wage distribution may be chose as the base wage for the job.

Step 4: Determine what the rate ought to be for jobs for which there are no market data available.

For a small organization with relatively few jobs, it is probably enough to make comparisons of market priced jobs with nonmarket priced jobs.

Arrange the market priced jobs in descending order of market rate. Compare the non-market rate jobs to the closest job, in terms of responsibility, job requirements, and so forth.

Step 5: At this point, the organization has a single wage rate for each job that reflects what an average worker in that position is (or should be) paid in the marketplace.

Both internal and external equity requirements are served by the compensation system are served by the compensation system and a consistent and legally justifiable foundation for compensation has been reached. The next step is to recognize that internal equity needs are not served by treating all workers as average. To promote internal equity, many organizations differentiate salaries on the basis of seniority and performance.

The small business can recognize seniority by having a starting salary for a job which is lower than the single wage rate. Many organizations begin new workers at about 80 percent of the average rate and move people to the average rate over a year or two. On the assumption that no new worker can be outstanding, the fixed increase is the only increase for which new workers are eligible.

PERFORMANCE APPRAISALS Performance rewards for a small organization need to be sensitive to both the adequacy of performance measures and the ability of the organization to pay. Individuals may perform very well, but in a declining market the organization may not have the resources to reward them. Adjustments to base salary tend to increase the likelihood and severity of this problem.

One of the first issues the small business must deal with is the development of an accurate performance appraisal system. Such a system should include both employee outputs and critical behaviors. The result of the appraisal system (as far as compensation goes) should be a single performance score.

The organization then needs to set aside part of the salary budget for a bonus pool. The organization’s ability to pay will determine the size of the pool. This pool will be allocated to employees on the dual basis of their base salary and their performance level. Since the base wage reflects what average performers are worth in the marketplace, no employee who is an average or lower-than average performer would be eligible for the bonus. Such a bonus system allows the or-

ganization to preserve both internal and individual equity while recognizing the limits of the business environment places on finances.

A market pricing system needs to be adjusted to reflect changes in the marketplace annually. At that time individual rates need to be adjusted either upwards or downwards. Individual salaries, however, would not be adjusted downwards, but market bonuses could be adjusted to take into account the overpayment vis-à-vis the market.

BENEFITS Benefits required by law: social security (employer’s contribution), worker’s compensation and unemployment insurance.

A general comment here: with 3-4 generations of workers in a given workplace at the same time, it is important to recognize that not all employees will value the same benefits the same; i.e., some employees may prefer paid time off to a raise or vise versa. To the degree that your programs can be flexible to accommodate the desires and needs of the individual employee the more likely your dollars will go farther to attract and retain the top talent.

Optional Benefits: Includes insurance and pension benefits. (Even if a business cannot afford to underwrite a complete benefits program, the business can set up such a program and make it contributory. If the employer administers the program, it may be possible to provide group rates. Insofar as the organization can afford to contribute, it should.)

Time Benefits: Holidays, vacation time, and sick leave. Organizations frequently underestimate the cost of these benefits because there are no out-of-pocket costs that appear but only work that does not get done. The key need is to meet the competition (external equity) since internal equity is not a relevant issue. Most employees have less awareness of benefits than they do of wages. Thus, if an organization has financial limits on what it can offer, it is more likely to be successful in concentrating on the base wage and bonus program.

COMMUNICATING THE PROGRAM If equity issues are to be served, employees need to be made aware of the compensation program. This does not mean that salary information is shared, rather, the organization should explain to employees how the base salary rate for a job is determined, the policy with respect to starting salary and the time frame for moving to base rate, the method used for determining performance bonuses, and organizational constraints.

One approach to communicating compensation information to employees is through an annual individualized compensation letter. This letter should outline all the information noted above for the employee.

In addition, it should provide such information as base rate, seniority differential (if any), and the added value of each benefit provided by the employer. A total figure of the complete compensation provided by the organization to the employee provides a ‘bottom-line’ number that shows the employee what he or she received from the organization in exchange for work. The figure emphasizes for the employee how much value the organization believes the employee has. Most employees are unaware of the size of this figure, being familiar only with the take-home pay they receive. Knowledge of the total can have a motivating effect on many employees. Again, the emphasis is on TOTAL COMPENSATION.

For more Business Talk, see page 21 June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 19

City of Kelso

City of Longview

By Mayor David Futcher

By Councilmember Ken Bortero

Kelso’s healthy finances I know…budget articles are about as exciting as an Andy Warhol film, so I give you a lot of credit for even reading this.

As Kelso wrapped up our financial year for 2015, we found ourselves in a very solid financial position. For the year, our revenues came in stronger than expected, and we didn’t spend as much money as we’d planned. The combination of these items left us with what we’d call in the private sector a healthy profit.

We have excellent finance staff and a city manager that take a very conservative approach to budgeting at the city so that we don’t commit ourselves to spend more than we can be assured we’ll have. We’ve been through the tough economy of 2008-2010, and none of us want to get back to that place, where we had to lay off police officers and other key city staff. To avoid that, we have focused on building a cushion to help us through future downturns.

I believe the role of government should not be to tax its people to simply build up huge bank accounts, but we should establish reasonable operating reserves. Once those have been funded, any excesses should be used to reduce taxes or to provide additional services or capital investment.

While we’re still mulling all of the options in those areas, we’ve already made strides to use these funds to fix street and other problems that have been piling up over the years. Personally, I have a tendency to prefer one-time type expenses over using the funds for recurring expenses like expanding staff, because we’re not sure that future years will provide the same financial results, and we want to be able to commit to a staff position for more than this year.

Trying to best use unexpected funds? That’s the kind of problem I like to have.

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Partnerships move city forward Greetings from the beautiful city of Longview, Washington, a Quality of Place for our residents and visitors. The beautiful spring season is finally here and we are blessed with the flowers blooming, the leaves on the trees coming back, and many outdoor activities in the community.

If we stop for just a moment and take a look around our community we find many positive blessings and togetherness. You know, all of us, residents, community leaders, service clubs, and community help groups, all have hope to have a positive impact in our community.

It's why we do what we do. There are many nonprofits in our community that exist to help make Longview a better place. These organizations put pride into making Longview a Quality of Place. But how do we, the citizens of Longview and our surrounding neighbors, make sure our programs and organizations make the greatest impact they can? It starts with good planning and good data. Planning that focuses on our end goal and data that provides information to make wise and positive decisions. Positive partnerships with city, citizens, and service organizations.

Recently, considerable attention has been given to the potential impact of growth and development in Longview, such as annexation in west Longview, road and street repair and renovation of facilities.

In general, growth has been viewed as healthy, as well as desirable for Longview as it often leads to additional jobs, a broader tax base and the enhancement of programs at libraries and parks. However, Longview is cautious and aware that growth may also be accompanied by costs such as increased fiscal expenditures for necessary public service and infrastructure. This is a very important reason for positive data, but also, input from the citizens in the community and in depth discussions with our neighboring communities. When we make a decision concerning the home we live in we gather information to make a wise and positive decision, why should that be any different than the community we live in. It seems that we, our citizens, business partners, nonprofits, and service organizations, should work hand in hand with our city leaders in providing that Quality of Place we all desire.

Between Longview, Kelso and our Chamber of Commerce we can make a difference if we, the citizens, get involved and show our pride in our community.

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Business Talk, continued from page 19 MONITORING THE PROGRAM The small business should regularly monitor and evaluate the compensation program based on the following: • How long does it take to fill positions? Do applicants who turn down job offers mentioned compensation as a reason?

• What are the business’ turn-over rates as compared to the industry? Do exit interviews suggest that salary is a key reason for individuals leaving? Do people go to similar jobs in the area, or do they leave to get promotions?

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• Finally, what is happening to productivity? Do areas of the business, where the bonus money goes, continue with high performance? Do low performers, who got small or no bonuses, improve?

As with most business programs/processes, it always makes sense to go back to your goals for your compensation program and compare the actual results and make improvements.

This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, Certified Business Adviser for the Washington State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Longview. Jerry provides confidential, business advisory services by appointment. He can be contacted jerry.petrick@ wsbdc.org

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June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 21

Ribbon Cutting

Treasure Hunt

Chamber Ambassadors helped Captured Treasures and manager Lisa Blaine open its doors at 1262 Commerce Ave., Longview May 16.

22 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Kelso School District

Longview School District

Superintendent Glenn Gelbrich

Superintendent Dan Zorn

All eyes on graduation As we inch closer to the end of another school year, one of our key milestones is increasingly on everyone’s mind: graduation. At the high school level, all staff members are identifying students who may need additional support in order to receive their diploma in June. Assignment checks, instructional support, and encouragement become increasingly individualized to do everything possible to get our seniors into that once in a lifetime ceremony.

The implications of graduation are huge. High school graduates have more opportunities for work and study beyond 12th grade. Their income potential is significantly greater with a high school diploma in hand. According to the National Dropout Prevention Center, high school graduates are likely to earn nearly $150 per week more than young adults who do not graduate, even if they do not go on to post-secondary education.

The journey to graduation begins early. Our preschool partners in Head Start and elsewhere, along with parents who are able to be at home with very young children, begin very early to shape the life skills and pre-academic skills to support childhood success. It would be very difficult to overestimate the importance of these early formative years and their contribution to a child’s success in school.

Our primary teachers work with our youngest students to develop the social, behavioral and academic skills needed to succeed in life. Teachers and support staff are working alongside families to build those key attitudes and dispositions for success: positive attendance, working well with others, and a “can do” spirit. The path to graduation continues through elementary and middle school with a gradual release of responsibility and independence for students.

At the high school level, students begin to customize their learning experience through a myriad of electives that enhance State course requirements for graduation. The many forms of the arts, courses related to the trades, and pre-college electives are all a part of the menu that allows students to personalize their high school learning in a way that is engaging for them.

Graduation week is filled with ceremonies and awards for our seniors.

The Kelso Public School Foundation alone awards more than $90,000 in scholarships that week. Our graduates also participate in a parade in which they return to their elementary and middle schools to be recognized and applauded by their teachers and staff who were with them when they began. It’s a unique Kelso tradition and this year Randy Dorn, Washington’s superintendent of public instruction, will join them.

Graduation is at 1p.m. on Saturday, June 11. The path to graduation began quite awhile back!

Our design for excellence At its meeting on May 23, our Board of Directors adopted the Longview Public Schools Strategic framework, “Our Design for Excellence.” This framework is a result of a year’s worth of discussion regarding the future focus of our school district. At the center of “Our Design for Excellence” is our focus upon improving the student achievement levels of our students. Our framework also recognizes the essential role that a positive climate and culture plays in determining our students’ academic and social success.

To achieve our goals we have committed to improving the rigor and relevance of the education we provide our students. This focus will help to ensure that we provide challenging and diverse, curricular experiences that meet our students’ personal and vocational interests and needs. We purpose to provide focused academic intervention for our students who are struggling to meet expected achievement levels.

The importance of creating effective relationships with our students while helping them to find ways to “connect” to their school is also acknowledged in our framework. We recognize that many of our students come to us with social, emotional, behavioral, and physical health needs, and that it is our responsibility to work with our students, their families, and community organizations to help our students overcome these challenges.

The financial resources we have available are limited. Consequently, we have pledged to manage our resources prudently, and focus our financial priorities on our students, their achievement needs, and the district’s established goals. We recognize that our facilities constitute a significant community investment in our students and the education we provide. To protect this investment, we have committed to maximizing the life and functionality of existing facilities while we plan for the future needs of our educational system and its students.

The importance of providing schools that are safe and functional and designed to maximize teaching and learning is recognized as an important factor in improving student achievement.

We are committed to serving our students, their families, the community and our educators. Through this service we believe that we are best able to realize the improved achievement levels that are at the center of “Our Design for Excellence.” We look forward to working with each of you as we aim to make the Longview Public Schools the district of choice for families and educators.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 23

In The News

Community Home Health & Hospice charity care fundraiser exceeds $153,000 The local community contributed more than $153,000 at Community Home Health & Hospice’s charity care fundraiser, A Taste of Tuscany on May 6. More than 450 guests partied with a purpose at the Cowlitz Regional Conference Center to support Community’s charity care program. Charity care includes patient care for uninsured/underinsured patients demonstrating financial need, community grief care for anyone who has lost a loved one under any circumstances, and support services for veterans in their last days of hospice, and more. Last year, Community spent $663,812 on charity care.

A highlight of the evening was a video featuring two veterans – one a hospice volunteer and the other a hospice patient – who share a special bond. To the delight of the guests, the emcee announced veterans Michael Schult and Herbert Craig were present in the room.

The crowd acknowledged them for their service to our country and for sharing their stories.

Community thanks all sponsors; table hosts, and donors of in-kind gifts and services, including Heads or Tails prizes, mystery gifts, wine and desserts; as well as those who conducted third-party fundraisers for the charity care program and all of the guests who made cash contributions at the event.

Community expresses sincere appreciation to the following major sponsors: Collins Architectural Group, PS; Columbia Security; Homecare Homebase; KapStone Kraft Paper Corporation and OnePoint Patient Care. In addition, Community thanks these donors of major in-kind gifts and services: Family of Janice J. King, The Gallery of Diamonds, KLOG-KUKN-101.5 The Wave, Life Works Linens, Pacific Office Automation, Donald Sims and Westby Associates, Inc. Community also thanks these additional sponsors who helped make the event successful: American Medical Response; Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC; C & R Tractor and Landscaping, Inc.; Columbia Bank; Fibre Federal Credit Union; Foster Farms; Heritage Bank; Jessica Mickens State Farm; Johnson Bixby & Associates, LLC; Law Office of Meredith A. Long, PLLC; Medline; Norco Medical; NORPAC; and Twin City Bank.

Veteran hospice volunteer Michael Schult and veteran hospice patient Herbert Craig's relationship highlighted the evening.

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In The News

National Night Out street permits necessary in Longivew Police Chief Jim Duscha is encouraging neighborhood groups to hold National Night Out parties on Aug. 2.

National Night Out, promoted by the National Association of Town Watch, is an annual celebration for communities to say good bye to crime. Neighborhood groups wanting to hold block parties were asked to apply for street use permits by June 2 if they plan to close their streets for National Night Out activities for the first time.

Neighborhood groups that have closed their streets for National Night Out annually must apply by July 5.

National Night Out is held the first Tuesday of August each year to bring attention to crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support in anti-crime efforts, like the Block Watch program.

Neighborhoods are encouraged to have barbecues, potlucks or other activities to allow for visiting with neighbors.

There is no fee for a Special Event permit (for a simple block party), but paperwork must be turned in at least 60 days before a first time event. Groups that have held the event the previous year must turn in their permit paperwork at least 30 days in advance.

Special Event permit applications are available on-line or at Longview City Hall at 1525 Broadway St. and at the Longview Police Department’s Highlands Satellite Office at 216 30th Ave., Suite C behind the St. Helens Shopping Center. The police satellite office is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Completed Special Event permits should be turned in at the engineering department at City Hall, 15th Avenue at Broadway Street.

Office hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Neighborhood groups who are planning National Night Out activities and would like representatives of Longview Police Department to drop by, are asked to contact Cpl. Jenkins by July 13, at 360-4425883 or danielle.jenkins@ci.longview.wa.us

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WWW.M-Y-AGENCY.COM June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 25

Business After Hours

Angie Lippent and Eric Guttoumsen, , Fibre Federal Credit Union, handing a gift certificate to winner Phuong-Chi Stanyer.

Fibre Fete

More than 120 members came out to network at the May Business After Hours.

Big thanks to our host, Fibre Federal Credit Union, along with Coldwell Banker Bain and Corner Cafe. Guests enjoyed an amazing spread courtesy of Corner Cafe and Chamber members St. Helens Cellars and Ashtown Brewery provided beverages.

Thank you Fibre Federal Credit Union for opening your doors and sharing your beautiful building with the Chamber. At left, Larry Hoff, CEO Fibre Federal Credit Union, and Mark Scroggins, Coldwell Banker Bain.

Marlene Johansen, Jason Kynaston and Lorie Beckas, Heritage Bank.

See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.

26 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

May Ambassador of the Month Diana Boaglio

Global Images Graphic Design and Marketing

Helping businesses design a positive, successful image Briefly describe your current position. Since 1997, when I began Global Images, I have provided strategic marketing to local and regional organizations, both large and small. I offer fresh, innovative graphic design that creatively communicates a client’s message.

How long have your been an ambassador? Since 2009 I believe What prompted you to be an ambassador? The example set

by Diane Craft and other folks I saw being ambassadors. It looked like a good way to get involved in the business community, a way to help other businesses, and it looked like fun!

What do you like most about volunteering with the ambassadors? Helping other businesses be successful. Getting to know so many people in the business community. Introducing businesses to each other so others can make those connections too.

Your favorite ambassador story? The line of us Red Coats imitating the “Rockettes” at the start of one of the Chamber awards dinners.

Other volunteer/organizations? Kelso Rotary. Longview LeTip. Longview Community Church.

Tell us about your family. It has grown a lot in 2015 when I married Mr. Wonderful Jaime Boaglio! We have six children just like the Brady (Boaglio) Bunch except all are grown and range from 22 to 37 years old. Most live in the Pacific North-

1.855.4DENTAL

(433-6825)

First in Proactive Dental Care

west but one’s in Waikiki and one’s in Orlando. Three grandchildren too – 6 months, 5 years and 11 years old. Love my family.

What is something most people do not know about you? I have won numerous local, national and international graphic design awards. My work is published in many hard back coffee-table type books and magazines.

What do you like to do for fun? A nice meal out at a restaurant. Shop. Read. Visit friends and family. Travel.

Favorite snack? Crunchy raw veggies. Celery, carrots, and the like. Potato chips are up there too.

Your guilty pleasure? When time allows taking a nice long nap!

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.

Do you have Summer Jobs for College Students or New Graduates?

We can help you easily fill those

positions!

Call today.

360.414.1200 • www.expresslongview.com June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 27

Chamber JUNE 2013

Chamber Connection

Services Not Just to the Tribe

Vashti Langford, Healing of the Canoe Facilitator, Cowlitz Indian Tribe. For information on services visit them at 1055 9th Ave., Suite B, Longview.

Technology Update

Tom Marg and Scott Morris, Verizon Wireless-Cellular Plus, sharing the latest technology in mobile devises.

Stop by their store at 98 Minor Road, Kelso – across from the Chamber office. Morris returned to the broadcast booth later to plug the new Android tablet BOGO special.

Flower Power

Kurt Henthorn, B&M Heating and Air, promoting the Lower Columbia Contractors Association Home and Garden Show that took place April 30th.

“Your Chamber Connection” EVERY Wednesday Hosts of the Show: Carey Mackey, Red Canoe Credit Union ; Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title, Russ Chittock and Karen Sisson, Kelso Longview Chamber, Prestige Senior Living, Monticello Park 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 Karen at the Chamber 360-423-8400

28 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Stream live at www.threeriversradio.com Local guest and current events

Chamber Connection

Behind the Scenes

Glenn Nobel and Bailey Roberts of Bicoastal Media making Your Chamber Connections happen every week – thank you Glenn and Bailey.

Farm Fresh

Betty Erickson announced the Kelso Bridge Market is now open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday at the Three Rivers Mall.

Good Deeds

Brooke Fisher-Clark, United Way, and Shelby White, Kelso High School, are joining forces with the Association of Washington Student Leaders Conference to bring 1,000 high school students to Longview to package 100,000 dried meals for a United Way service project.

Family Learning

Amy Wilson, Community Engagement Specialist with the Forest Service, stopped by to share new activities at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center and Johnson Ridge Observatory. Both now open. And, Chris Lyons of Longview Community Church dropped in to invite parents and educators to a Tackling the Tough Stuff seminar May 14.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 29

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 P.U.D. *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 *Animal Health Services *Suzanne Arnitz *Baxter Auto Parts *Behrends Body Shop *Bob’s Sporting Goods *Burger King *Collins Architectural Group *Country Village Nutrition Shoppe & Café *Day Wireless Systems *Esteem Salon *Ethnic Support Council *Fiesta Bonita Mexican Grill & Cantina *Foster Farms *Gallery of Diamonds *Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing *Hilander Dental *Hydraulic Service, Inc. *Kelso Rotary *Les Schwab Tire Center *Northwest Motor Service *Overhead Door Company of Southwest *Washington *Peter C. Wagner, D.M.D., PS *ProBuild *Propel Insurance

30 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

*Shamrock Tavern *Shirley L. Smith *Stirling Honda *Sweet Spot Frozen Yogurt *Taco Time *The Daily News *The Roof Doctor *Twin City Glass Co. *Twin City Service Co. *Weatherguard, Inc. *Wilcox & Flegel Oil Company *Workplace Wellness *WorkSource Cowlitz/Wahkiakum *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 *Pets, Pawns & Imports *SW Washington Symphony *The UPS Store *TSYS Merchant Solutions *Washington State University Vancouver *Zip Local *Brown & Brown Northwest Insurance *Corwin Beverage *Cowlitz River Rigging, Inc. *Educational Service District No. 112 *Emergency Support Shelter *Employers Overload *Fairway collections

Welcome Back! *Futcher Group *Kelso School District *Kelso Theater Pub *Kelso-Longview Television, Inc. *KeyBank *Longview Early Edition Rotary *Longview Eye & Vision *Longview Physical & Sports Therapy *Longview Self Storage *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 *Berkshire Hathaway *Better Business Bureau *C's Photography *Cowlitz County Museum *Cowlitz Economic Development Council *Cowlitz Indian Tribe *Cowlitz River Dental *Epson Portland *Erickson Glass Co. *Estetica Day Spa *Fibre Federal Credit Union - Castle Rock *Branch *Guesthouse Inn & Suites *Kellogg Supply, Inc. *Longview Country Club *Lower Columbia Economic Development Council *Motion Industries, Inc. *Mt 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 *Advanced Message & Dispatch *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 *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 *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

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 31

Welcome Back! *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 OUR LATEST RENEWING MEMBERS *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

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

*Pacific Lumber & Shipping Co. *Papé 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. *Wal*Mart

Thank you

Bianca Lemmons VP/Manager/LPO

from the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Bill Marcum and Amy Hallock.

Keep soaring, Karen!

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 32 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2016

Welcome New Members Law Office of Meredith A. Long 1315 14th Ave., Longview Meredith Long (360) 998-3030 meredithlonglaw.com

Fairways Apartments 3858 Pennsylvania St. #1, Longview Kathryn Golston (360) 577-1538 liveatfairways.com

CIC Credit Employment Caryl McMains 360-892-0687 ciccredit.com

Fostering Together 115 Beacon Hill Dr., Longview Jeanmarie Moore fosteringtogether.org

Join the Chamber today! Call 360-423-8400 Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.

• Annual Meeting and Banquet • Networking Events

• Use of Chamber Logo Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.

• Committee Participation

• Legislative Representation

• Business Contacts

• Issues Tracking and Information

• Quarterly Membership Meetings

• Task Forces

• Civic Representation

• Candidate Forums

• Monthly Business After Hours

• Legislative Update Breakfast

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.

June 2016 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 33