June
2017
Volume 9, Issue 6
Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Gibbs & Olson received the Small Business of the Year honor at the Chamber's Pillar of Strength and Crystal Apple awards. For a complete list of winners, see page 4.
Graduate returns home to join Gibbs & Olson team Kyle Busby is the kind of hire Gibbs & Olson
is looking for – bright, qualified – and, as a bonus, a Kelso native.
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Team Bill Marcum, CEO Lindsey Cope, Project Manager Amy Hallock, Visitor Information Center and Office Manager 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
“We celebrate when we are able to bring someone back to the community,” said Richard Gushman, president of the Longview-based engineering and land surveying firm that has been serving the community for more than 60 years. “The challenge we seem to have is to get people to want to move here who aren’t from here.” Gushman, Carol Ruiz, principal, and Tom Gower, vice president; all grew up in the shadow of Mount St. Helens. Gushman is a Kelso High graduate. Ruiz graduated from Mark Morris and Gower from R.A. Long. Gushman admits having an opening and finding the right, qualified candidate with a local connection to fill it isn’t a regular occurrence, but it is nice when it all lines up. Living in the Kelso-Longview area is a lifestyle choice. The smaller cities offer a slower, quieter pace than their larger, local neighbors – not always a draw for employers like Gibbs & Olson. “They don’t see the value of living here,” Gushman said. “They end up going to bigger cities like Portland.” But that lifestyle was exactly what drew Busby back. He, his wife, a Kelso High graduate, and their infant daughter were looking to return home. “All our family lives here,” Busby said. “We like
the lifestyle of living down here. We knew we wanted to live there.” After graduating from Kelso High, Busby attended Lower Columbia College and then headed to the University of Washington in Kyle Busby recently joined the team at Gibbs & Olson. Seattle where he earned a degree in civil engineering. He spent the next three years with a Seattle-area firm before finding an opening at Gibbs & Olson. “It’s working out well,” Busby said. “It’s definitely a place I can see a long-term career. The future looks very bright.” “We are very happy to have him,” Gushman said. “We like to do it when we can.”
2017 Small Business
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www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
THANK YOU Pillars of Strength and
Crystal Apple Awards
2017 Sponsors
Millennium Bulk Terminals Davis & Associates, CPAs Gibbs & Olson Lifeworks Scott Fisher - State Farm Insurance Rodman Realty Red Canoe Credit Union Three Rivers Mall Woodford Commercial Real Estate Nick Lemiere - Edward Jones Foster Farms KUKN/KLOG/The Wave Copies Today Engraving Emporium Jansen’s Flowers PeaceHealth Lower Columbia College C’s Photography Bi-Coastal Media
Pillars of Strength | Crystal Apple Awards
Everyone's a winner at ceremony With the electric atmosphere and red carpet of the Academy Awards, the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2017 Pillars of Strength and Crystal Apple Awards May 3 at Lower Columbia College’s Rose Center for the Arts.
1. Frank Panarra celebrates Foster Farms' award for Large Business of the Year. 2. LCC nominees Jodi Dahlke, Amber Lemiere, Louis LaPierre, Katrina Fuller and Jim Dillinger 3. Chris Roewe congratulates Sherrie Tinoco from Emergency Support Shelter.
Beneath a sponsor banner that featured PeaceHealth, C’s Photography, BiCoastal Media, Foster Farms, KUKN/KLOG/The WAVE, the winners in each category were announced.
Pillars of Strength Winners Large Business of the Year – Foster Farms The poultry processor is actively involved in the Chamber and community. They recently attended the Community Home Health and Hospice gala and brought a cake that looked like a chicken to donate to the dessert dash. They continually donate product, time and manpower locally. Small Business of the Year – Gibbs & Olson A local engineering and surveying company that has served the community for more than 60 years was selected for its involvement with other organizations, superior level of service and support of the economic vitality and quality of life of the community. “We are grateful to have been voted Small Business of the Year,” Gibbs & Olson noted in a press release. “The support of our fellow community members definitely helps us be a better company. And, a big thank you to everyone who is part of our Gibbs & Olson family. It takes a true team to make a great company and we cannot be successful without each other.” Large Nonprofit of the Year – LifeWorks LifeWorks supports the needs of people with developmental disabilities in the community, partnering them with business and resources to better their lives with education, tutoring, job placement and outreach. Small Nonprofit of the Year – Emergency Support Shelter The Emergency Support Shelter provides free services to victims of domestic and sexual violence and those who support them. In an effort to expand services, they recently remodeled rooms so victims could bring their pets with them so that is no longer a barrier of leaving an abusive home. Rising Star – John Paul, KUKN/KLOG/The WAVE John Paul is the general manager and program director for KUKN, KLOG and The Wave, as well
2
1
3 as a Rotarian, Lower Columbia College Foundation board member and is involved with United Way, Lower Columbia Contractors Association, Go Fourth Festival, Lower Columbia Professionals, St. Rose School PTO and serves as a Chamber Ambassador. Business Person of the Year – Ryan Grady Ryan Grady owns and operates ServPro of Longview/Kelso, which specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire or water damage. Through his business, he is part of the Longview Noon Rotary, sponsors an annual blood drive, and supports youth sports, United Way, hospice, Cowlitz County Chaplaincy and numerous Chamber events. Walt Naze Ambassador of the Year – Teedara Garn An active Chamber Ambassador, Teedara Garn is a resource specialist with Cowlitz County PUD and also a supporter of Kelso Youth Baseball and Lower Columbia Professionals member.
Crystal Apple Education Winners Higher Education Teacher of the Year – Louis LaPierre and Amber Lemiere Louis LaPierre and Amber Lemiere are the dynamic teaching duo that feed and nurture healthy and sustainable living at Lower Columbia College. “I would nominate them separately, but they really do fit together as a team,” read their nomination letter. “Both have a passion for healthy living and donate dozens of hours in building LCC’s Richard
4 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
Kelly Healing Garden to be a safe place where students and staff can get fresh produce as well as rejuvenate their inner soul surrounded by nature. Their work has led to new healthy recipes being served at the Fork and Flame cafe on campus using our very own home-grown produce, as well as helping staff relax by getting their hands dirty pulling weeds, planting seeds, and harvesting produce to share with our community. They feed our bellies and our minds with the work that they tirelessly do to serve us.” Higher Education Support Person of the Year – Jodi Dahlke Jodi Dahlke serves as director for TriO Student Support Services, a federally funded program offered through the Department of Education at Lower Columbia College since 1976. Dahlke makes sure the program’s 227 participants and team members receive support. The students come from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Her generosity has taken the shape of buying lunches for staff, students, and making sure that grants were given to those students who were facing serious emergency financial hardship,” read her nomination letter. “We had a student last year whose father died in the middle of the quarter, and we were able to offer a grant to cover the cost of burial. There are countless stories like this that outline the work this woman does, and her humility would deflect these successes without a second thought, but she is responsible for our For more Awards, see page 5
Pillars of Strength | Crystal Apple Awards continued from page 4 Lower Columbia Professionals Scholarship Winners Anna Bridgen, R.A. Long High, $1,500 Attending: University of Washington Area of Study: Gender, Women, Sexuality Studies
4
Alexander Sheldon, Castle Rock High, $1,000 Attending: Northwest College of Art and Design Area of Study: DigiPen Institute of Technology
5 4. Red Canoe, on behalf of Kathy Miller, Workforce Education Individual Achievement winner. 5. Kelso School District Spanish Interpreter Maria Rodriguez earned the Classified or Support Role of the Year honor. 6.Scholarship winners.
Administrator of the Year (K-12) – Wallace Elementary Principal Ray Cattin Ray Cattin has served the Kelso School District as a high school teacher and athletic director, and this year took on the challenge of elementary school principal. He encourages students to learn the fundamentals of life while making school fun. “I have been extremely fortunate during my 22 years in education to always be part of great teams and to have had great mentors,” Cattin said after the ceremony. “I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I’d been nominated for the Crystal Apple Award, especially knowing the caliber of the past winners. I was also surprised to actually win the award as I have such immense respect for my fellow nominees, Tim Yore and Laura Hiatt. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them for several years and they are both outstanding educational leaders. Thank you to the Chamber for this recognition and for putting together such a memorable evening—it was truly a class act.” Classified or Support Role of the Year (K-12) – Spanish Interpreter Maria Rodriguez Maria Rodriguez’ work with the Kelso School District has an impact in assisting Hispanic students and families successfully navigate the school system and community. Although her job title is interpreter, she serves as teacher, counselor, confidant, graduation specialist, school liaison, and inspiration. Her recommnedation letter noted how the past few months have been “filled with immigration concerns for many of our students
Danielle Gedlick, Castle Rock High, $1,000 Attending: Washington State University Vancouver Area of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics Olivia Trekas, R.A. Long High, $1,000 Attending: Lower Columbia College Area of Study: Nursing Ellen Hadaller, Castle Rock High, $1,500 Attending: Lower Columbia College Area of Study: Criminal Justice/Psychology
6 teams health, and happiness; it is due to our team’s synergistic rhythm with each other that we are able to make such an impact in our students lives.”
Ashley Hall, R.A. Long High, $1,500 Attending: University of Washington or University of Colorado Area of Study: Applied Mathematics
Brooke Richter, Mark Morris High, $1,000 Attending: Western Washington University Area of Study: Marketing and Advertising
and families, Maria has been on the front lines communicating with our families; calling them, providing them resources and factual information, as well as representing them and standing alongside our parents at community meetings. But most importantly, she listens and reassures then that their students are safe in our schools.”
Kyra Ingalls, Mark Morris High, $1,000 Attending: Lower Columbia College Area of Study: Accounting
Teacher of the Year (K-12) – Pam Bauman
Andrea Nelson, Mark Morris High, $1,000 Attending: Northwest Nazarene University or George Fox University Area of Study: Accounting
Pam Bauman is a teacher and assessment coordinator for the Kelso School District. “She is a creative thinker and an excellent problem solver,” were the words from her nomination letter. “Her work ethic has no boundaries. She provides exceptional levels of customer service and technical support to teachers and staff on an hourly basis. Her ability to assist and support teachers and administrators is unprecedented within our region and is much appreciated by all that she serves.
Maci Robinson, R.A. Long High, $1,000 Attending: Oregon State University Area of Study: Pharmaceuticals
Maria Harris Scholarships Winners
“Pam’s leadership style is one of listening, collaborating, and leading with a clear focus. Her sense of humor is contagious and she has an innate ability to turn any situation that she encounters into a positive one for those she serves. Pam is highly effective in what she does and driven in making achievement happen for all kids.” Workforce Education Individual Achievement – Kathy Miller, Red Canoe Credit Union Workforce Education Business – Millennium Bulk Terminals
Kennedy Werner, Mark Morris High, $2,000 Attending: Lower Columbia College Area of Study: Finance and Economics Olivia Shulke, Castle Rock High, $2,000 Attending: Lower Columbia College Area of Study: Law Enforcement Olivia Wolf, R.A. Long High, $2,000 Attending: Washington State University Pullman Area of Study: Veterinary Studies Natalie Coleman, Kalama High Maria Harris, $1,000 Lower Columbia Professionals, $500 Attending: Centralia College Area of Study: Elementary Education
June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 5
Chamber CEO’s Message By Bill Marcum
A star-filled night for community It was a great night for business leaders and educators in Kelso and
I also need to give a big thank you to the Education Committee and
Longview Thursday night, May 3. We had more than 270 people at-
Chair Hahli Clark, for all the hard work and long hours of poring over
tend the Pillars of Strength and Crystal Apple Awards. What makes this
the nominees for the event, reviewing the scholarship applications and
night so special is having a room filled with people who give 100 percent
narrowing both down to the winners...a very difficult thing to do with
to their job, business, friends, neighbors and these two communities.
so much in our communities.
The cheers as nominees were announced and the roar of the ovation when the winners were announced was phenomenal. I did not think it could get better than last year and yet it did. Chris Bailey, president of Lower Columbia College, was our emcee this year, and as always, he did a great job keeping the evening rolling, but also keeping it light and meaningful. For the first time the event took place at the LCC Rose Center and the Wollenberg Auditorium. LCC catered the event with a wonderful selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres, cheese and desserts. A truly great job by the staff at LCC. One of the most special parts of the evening is bringing up our scholarship winners and providing them with a certificate from $500 to $2,000 to be used toward college expenses next year. Five years ago the Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s Lower Columbia Professionals gave away three $750 scholarships. This year we handed out 14 scholarships totaling $19,000. Wow! It was awesome seeing our young people on stage and hearing their stories and their future plans. To top off the evening we offered our Jansen Flowers centerpieces to help raise funds for next year’s LCC Foundation donation. We raised $750 that night, nearly enough for one scholarship. Thank you to all 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 scholarship students and their families to attend the evening, and help hold the cost down to all those who attend. A huge thank you to: PeaceHealth, C’s Photography, KUKN/KLOG/ WAVE, Red Canoe, Davis and Associates, Scott Fischer-State Farm, Three Rivers Mall, Gibbs & Olson, Millennium, Rodman Realty, Jansen Flowers, Nick Lemiere-Edward Jones, Foster Farms, Copies Today, Engraving Emporium, BiCoastal Media and especially Lower Columbia College. 6 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
Last, and certainly not least, a big thank you, way to go, GREAT JOB... all those things and more, to Kelso Longview Chamber Project Manager Lindsey Cope. It is our largest event with the most people attending. It involves the most coordination – nominees, winners, scholarships, attendees, catering, venue and more. Thank you Lindsey...job well done. And thank you everyone of the 270 plus that attend the event, without each of you making a difference in our community, going the extra mile, doing that little extra in the classroom or in the boardroom we would not be the giving, helping communities we are today. So, again thank you.
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
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Calendar Thursday June 1 – 11:30 am Ribbon Cutting CIC Credit & Employment Screening Chamber Office 105 Minor Rd, Kelso Friday June 2 – 7:30 am Small Business Bootcamp Media Panel from Radio, TV, Newspaper LCC Heritage Room 600 Maple St, Longview
Lower Columbia College By Chris Bailey
President
The many roles of LCC Like most other two-year colleges around the nation, Lower Columbia College plays a
mate goal is to be a cardiac care coordinator. In addition to our amazing students, another
unique and diversified role in the community.
thing that makes LCC such a wonderful place
For example, LCC is one of the largest em-
is the community support we receive. The
Tuesday June 6 – 11:30 am Ribbon Cutting 8 to 28 Women’s Clothing Exchange 506 Royal St, Kelso
ployers in the area. Our workforce includes
Daily News, for example, recently raised more
instructors and instructional support staff, of
than $46,000 through its Students in Need
course, but we also have a wide range of other
Campaign. One hundred percent of the funds
Friday June 9 – 7:30 am Small Business Bootcamp Integrated Digital Marketing Strategy LCC Heritage Room 600 Maple St, Longview
employees whose responsibilities range from
raised will go directly to students experienc-
culinary arts to information technology to
ing financial difficulties, to help them stay in
compliance management.
school and achieve their goal of earning a col-
Tuesday June 13 – 5:30 pm Business After Hours Hearth Coffee Inc. 1101 Commerce Ave, Longview Friday June 16 – 7:30 am Small Business Bootcamp Technology, Computers, Data Security LCC Heritage Room 600 Maple St, Longview Monday June 19 – 1 pm shotgun start Chamber Annual Golf Classic Three Rivers Golf Course 2222 South River Rd, Kelso Thursday June 22 – 11:30 AM Ribbon Cutting ANC Movers Inc. Chamber Office 105 Minor Rd, Kelso Wednesday June 28 – 11:30 AM Ribbon Cutting My Positive Transitions Chamber Office 105 Minor Rd, Kelso Thursday June 29 – 11:45 am Quarterly Membership Luncheon Simplify Your Life with Bethanne Kronick Cowlitz County Event Center 1900 7th Ave SW, Longview Every Wednesday Chamber Connections KEDO/1400 AM – 3-4 pm Stream live at www.kedoam.com
We recently compared ourselves to other colleges throughout the United States by participating in a large, national survey designed specifically for higher education employees. The survey results were incredible. Our scores were statistically significantly higher than all comparison groups in every benchmark metric included in the survey. The survey results confirmed what we already know – that LCC is a really wonderful place to work. One of the things that makes it such a great place to be is that we get to be present while students’ lives are transformed through education. We recently honored 45 outstanding
lege degree or certificate. Other recent gifts to the LCC Foundation include a $355,000 gift from Applied Industries, Inc. in support of LCC students with disabilities, a $102,000 endowed scholarship from Jim and Marianne Mitchell in memory of their grandson Eric James Mitchell, and a contribution valued at $60,000 from Dr. Richard Nau for our Student Success Fund. This support from the community is becoming increasingly important as state funding of higher education continues to erode. While we acknowledge and support the overwhelming need to solve funding issues related to K-12 education, we believe that community
students at an awards ceremony, each with a
colleges – which confer a large number of
unique and inspiring story.
high school diplomas each year along with as-
One of the award winners, I’ll call her K,
sociate degrees and certificates – should also
was a struggling single mother with three
be a priority in the discussion about paying
children and serious health problems. She fi-
for education.
nally received a heart transplant in 2015, and
If you are new to the area or just want to
afterward decided to enroll at LCC to create
learn more about Lower Columbia College,
a better life for herself and her children. K is
are interested in employment, or want to
earning her degree in medical administrative
learn more about how to support our efforts
support, and intends to find a job helping oth-
through the LCC Foundation, we invite you
ers navigate the healthcare system. Her ulti-
to explore our website at lowercolumbia.edu. June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 7
Cowlitz Economic Development Council By Penny Thomas
Commerce Communications
Grant dollars target business growth, jobs The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board
"Washington’s economy was the fastest growing in the nation last year,
(CERB) recently approved $4,956,250 in grants and low-interest loans
yet we know that many parts of our state are not full participants in that
for public infrastructure development and economic feasibility studies
prosperity," said Brian Bonlender, director of the Washington State De-
in nine counties across the state. The projects target business growth
partment of Commerce. "Attractive financing tools provided by CERB
and job creation in Chelan, Clallam, Cowlitz, Grant, Lewis, Lincoln,
are essential to strengthening rural communities and a good investment
Snohomish, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties.
in our shared economic future."
CERB awarded a $50,000 grant to the Port of Woodland for a feasibil-
Since 1982, CERB has committed nearly $163 million to local jurisdic-
ity study and market analysis to determine the practicality of construct-
tions across the state, an investment generating more than 35,000 jobs,
ing dark fiber infrastructure for two routes independently, the return on
and private capital investments of a $5.6 billion ($34 to $1) return on
investment in infrastructure, and the market needs based on the rural
CERB investment.
makeup of the routes. CERB funds are matched by $25,000 in local resources.
As Washington’s strategic economic development resource, CERB is focused on creating private sector jobs in partnership with local govern-
“These projects represent the range of projects that CERB funds –
ments by financing infrastructure improvements. These improvements
projects that lead to private-sector job growth across the state through
encourage new business development and expansion. In addition to
infrastructure development and planning,” CERB Chair David Rhoden
funding construction projects, CERB provides limited funding for stud-
said. “The board is pleased to collaborate with each of these communi-
ies that evaluate high-priority economic development projects. Learn
ties as they work to create permanent private-sector jobs.”
more about CERB at www.commerce.wa.gov/cerb.
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Lance Welch, President
Chris Bailey Lower Columbia College
Nick Lemiere Edward Jones
Clayton J. Bartness, DC Longview Chiropractic Clinic
Chris Roewe Woodford Commercial Real Estate
Neil Zick, Treasurer
Ken Botero Longview City Council
Tom Rozwod NORPAC/Weyerhaeuser
Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel
Bob Crisman Gallery of Diamonds
Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council
Julie Rinard, Past President
Wendy Hutchinson Millennium Bulk Terminals
Steve Taylor Kelso City Manager
Joel Hanson, Past Past President
Wendy Kosloski Teague's Interiors
Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner
PeaceHealth
Linda DiLembo, President Elect Three Rivers Mall
Frank Panarra, Vice President Foster Farms
Twin City Bank
Walstead Mertsching
Community Home Health & Hospice KLOG/KUKN/The Wave
8 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
PORT OF KALAMA:
Business is Booming
Creating an Economic Engine for the Region Investing in Mixed-Use Development Today Building Space for Jobs for Our Community’s Future The Port of Kalama strives to balance the economy, environment and quality of life to make Kalama the best possible place to live. www.portofkalama.com 360.673.2325
Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments By Bill Fashing
Executive Director
The Word of the Day revisited I have written in the past about the emerging area of resilience. This is one of those topics that will envelop much that is done in the public sector and will be spilling over to the private sector as well. In regional planning, the word of the day is resilience. The word is coming down from the federal level and the applications of the term are broadening.
and the timber industry from these two events are still impacting the region. In 2001 the closure of the Reynolds aluminum plant was another significant shock to the economy. As a region, we are still suffering through the impacts of these and other shocks. What will the next shock be? Will we be ready for it and will we be able to recover from it more effectively than we have from previous shocks?
The Council of Governments hosted a Resilience event in late May to formalize discussions on the topic. The event included a wide variety of attendees representing a diverse group of the public leadership from throughout the region. This was the first formal discussion on regional resilience efforts in Southwest Washington, and won’t be the last.
According to Josh Bruce, businesses don’t often recover when directly impacted by these shocks. Josh presented these sobering business statistics provided by the noted source:
Speakers included Tristan Allen from the Washington Emergency Management Division and Josh Bruce from the Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Both individuals work on resilience issues in different domains: Tristan specializes in private sector and infrastructure, and his presentation centered upon what private sector businesses can do and how the state can support those efforts. Josh Bruce gave some examples of integrated planning efforts on resilience from the community to regional level and how these things can be achieved locally, without a plethora of money of resources. Participants were split into the following resilience subtopics: health and wellbeing, economy and society, and infrastructure and environment, and asked to focus on priorities and action steps. The feedback obtained will be used to focus resilience efforts within the region on relevant topics and provide follow up trainings and workshops to advance these priorities and action steps identified at this kickoff event. If you are still reading, you are probably curious about what regional resilience is. According to the Economic Development Administration, economic resilience is: •
The ability to anticipate a shock;
•
The ability to withstand or absorb a shock;
•
The ability to recover quickly from a shock; and
•
The ability to avoid the shock altogether.
Types of Shocks •
Downturn in national or international economy
•
Downturns in particular industries in our region
•
Other external shocks, natural or man-made disaster, exit of major employer, climate change, etc.
The Region has experienced a number of shocks over the years. We may not recognize them as such, but I have included a few of them for your consideration. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens sent the region into a spin and set in motion a number of things that this region was not ready to contend with. A decade later, in 1990, the region experienced the listing of the Northern Spotted Owl on the endangered species list which once again impacted the region, its jobs base and the regional way of life. The impacts to Weyerhaeuser 10 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
•
40 percent of impacted businesses never reopen (FEMA)
•
25 percent failure rate within one year of those businesses that do reopen (FEMA)
•
90 percent failure rate after two years (US SBA)
In the case of a major disaster, critical services might be disrupted for extended periods of time with little to no alternatives being available. According to The Partnership for Disaster Resilience the following estimates were developed for portions of Oregon’s Willamette Valley resulting from studies developed on the Cascadia Subduction Event. Estimated Time to Critical Service
Restore Service
Electricity 1-3 months Police and fire stations
2-4 months
Drinking water and sewer
1 month to 1 year
Top priority highways
6 to 12 months
(partial restoration) Healthcare facilities
18 months
A key message from the recent event included the importance of working with area businesses to develop, test, and implement business continuity plans. Even if your business has electricity, and other public services, will your employees be able to get to work? Will your customers and suppliers be able to access your business? How long can your business survive in a post disaster world? I first heard the resilience term used several years ago when working on a hazard mitigation planning process. The idea was that planning and mitigation efforts should be focused on efforts that will allow a region to quickly bounce back and recover from a wide variety of possible natural or man-made disasters that could impact the region and its individual cities, towns, and counties. Since then, resiliency has been slowly working into the mainstream of federal policy. The US Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD), the Department of Transportation (USDOT), Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) and others are pushing and promoting regional resilience with the goal of building unstoppable communities. We are seeing discusFor more COG, see page 11
COG continued from Page 10 sions of resilient housing, roads and overall economies that are flexible enough to flow with the changes. The CWCOG has begun the process of engaging the region in a discussion regarding our resilience planning and preparedness. As part of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the region, the COG will be working with a wide variety of partners and serve as a catalyst for discussions leading to actions that the re-
gion, its governments, businesses, nonprofits, health care providers, and residents can take to make the post event road to recovery a manageable process. The CWCOG and others will be exploring the steps necessary to prepare for a variety of disruptions that might impact our communities, our transportation systems, and the overall economic stability of the region. If you are interested in engaging in the process, please send an email to me at bfashing@ccwcog.org.
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June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 11
Business Toolbox By Jerry D. Petrick
Certified Business Adviser
Appreciating Millennials in your workplace We have more different generations in our workforce and our economy than ever before – what does that mean to your business? How can we build better teams; understand our customers; and thrive because of diversity rather than be distracted or confused by it? What generations are we talking about? Baby Boomers
opportunities for the institutions and businesses who pay attention the needs and desires of these groups; especially Generation Y as they overtake the Boomers both in number and economic influence. To help you further appreciate the opportunities presented by this demographic, let’s take a closer look at how and what they think, believe, and value.
•
Born 1946-1963
•
Major life influence = parents who lived through the Great Depression
Interesting Facts About Millennials
•
Beliefs about work = loyal to companies – value their job
➢ Teen drug use is down
•
Largest population demographic
➢ Teen drunk-driving accidents are down
➢ Teen arrests are down
➢ Teen pregnancy is down Generation X
➢ Teen abortions are down
•
Born 1964-1982
➢ High school dropout rates are down
•
Major life influence = saw parents laid off from long-term jobs
•
Beliefs about work = companies are not loyal – jobs are transitory; skeptical
•
Expect to move from job to job
Generation Y (Millennials) •
Born 1983-2002
•
Influenced by internet
•
Information at their fingertips
•
Want to know WHY?
•
2nd largest demographic (60-70 million)
•
Making their presence felt in the workforce
•
Expert multi-taskers
•
Face-to-face skills not as developed
•
Optimistic
•
Need structure
•
Highly social
The Truth About Millennials • A generation of new confidence, upbeat and full of self-esteem • The most education minded generation in history • A generation paving the way to a more open, tolerant society • A generation leading a new wave of volunteerism • More interested in creating experiences than acquiring ‘stuff ’ Millennials Are Education Minded • 90 percent of high school seniors expect to attend college • 70 percent of them expect to work in professional jobs • 70 percent believe college is necessary to achieve career goals • 40 percent of college freshman plan to get a master’s degree They want to make a difference… A 21-year-old machinist is excited about working in an electrical shop precisely because “it’s an environment where you can produce something useful, and you can see people glad they have this piece of equipment that never existed before.” It’s magic to them.
Generation Z •
Born after 2002
•
Who knows what they will bring
For the first time in history, we have three-plus generations active in our economy at the same time. This reality presents great
12 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
EMPLOYER’S HINT The magic for Millennials comes in making a difference; in making something worthwhile; while working with a great team and receivFor more Petrick, see page 13
Petrick continued from page 12 ing the rewards they think they have earned. Team is Important Millennials expect to be part of a highly motivated team of committed people. They like working closely and learning from colleagues they respect. They hope to socialize and even form friendships with their coworkers. The human connection is what makes work ‘FUN’ for Generation Y. Reality Check for Business Owners – What happens to Millennials when you also employ crotchety old grouches who seem to have a negative outlook on everything? Money Matters, BUT… Millennials have lofty financial and personal goals and fully expect to meet them. The dilemma is that most jobs available to Gen Y will be at or slightly above minimum wage and meet none of their financial expectations. Progressive employers will figure out a way to offer Millennials incentives that their competitors are not willing or able to offer. Millennials will work for both financial and non-financial rewards – often valuing time off or schedule flexiblity more than a bonus or raise. What to Expect from Gen Y • Comfortably self-reliant • Want technology and everything else RIGHT NOW • Want infinitely thrilling opportunities
Expectations of Millennials: 1. Provide challenging work that really matters 2. Balance clearly delegated assignments with freedom and flexibility 3. Offer increasing responsibility as a reward for accomplishments 4. Spend time getting to know your people and their capabilities 5. Provide ongoing training and learning opportunities 6. Establish mentoring relationships – (use ‘mentor/coach’ language not ‘boss/supervisor’) 7. Create a comfortable, low-stress environment 8. Allow some flexibility in scheduling 9. Focus on work, but be personable and have a sense of humor 10. Balance the roles of ‘boss’ and ‘team member’ 11. Treat Yers as colleagues, not as interns or teenagers 12. Be respectful – respect will be returned
• They have been micromanaged by parents, teachers, counselors, and others throughout their life
13. Consistently provide CONSTRUCTIVE feedback
• Coach them to manage their time but DO NOT over supervise or breathe down their necks
14. Reward Yers when they have done a good job
• They don’t care about climbing company ladders, paying dues, or cashing out at retirement…they ask:
Let me close with a quote from Bobby Bowden, Florida State Uni-
o What value can I add today?
versity head football coach, that I think captures much of the essence
o What can I learn today?
of the Y Generation:
o What will you offer me today?
o How will I be rewarded today?
“I get the kids of today to do the same thing as 30 years ago…now, I have to tell them WHY”
Although every generation exhibits ‘youthful impatience’; Gen Y demonstrates healthy impatience and when their tasks and responsibilities are at stake they ask…“How can I do my job when I don’t have the training, resources, and information to pull it off?” Organizations that can’t or won’t customize training, career paths, incentives, and work responsibilities need a wake-up call. Gen Y people are more entrepreneurial thinking than Gen Xers. Generation Yers are starting more successful businesses in high school than any previous generation.
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 pro-
How can you employ that entrepreneurial spirit in your workplace?
vides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment.
Here are some final tidbits you may find useful.
He can be reached via email jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 13
City of Kelso
City of Longview
By Mayor David Futcher
By City Councilman Ken Botero
Council: A family affair? An effective city council works together as a team. So every other year, when May rolls around, it’s interesting to see who wants to join your team. This year’s filing week brought a couple interesting decisions.
Reviving downtown core Greetings from the Jewel of the Northwest, Longview, Wash. We bring you exciting news from the beautiful City of Longview. With most of the clouds disappearing and the rain subsiding we can look at
Councilmembers Rick Roberson and Todd McDaniel both decided
the many changes taking place in the city. A couple of years ago we ven-
they wouldn’t run for re-election in 2017. McDaniel is the longest-
tured on the renovation of our uptown corridor, Commerce Avenue.
serving councilmember, and Roberson isn’t far behind. We’ll be los-
Today we are finishing the last section of that project, which is changing
ing a lot of experience in these two, both of whom have worked hard for Kelso and been team members that I’ve enjoyed. I’ve always tried to stay away from endorsing candidates for the
the atmosphere of the local shopping venue in the center of town. You can walk just a few blocks away and notice the amazing work in reno-
council. My thinking is, I need to be able to work productively with
vating the historic Monticello Hotel, giving the community pride in our
whoever is elected, and I’ve watched enough “Survivor” to know that
beginnings. While there you might take a look at the efforts to enhance
if you vote against someone, they have a hard time putting that in
the historic Robert A. Long Park and the facilities at our historic library.
the past. Councilmember Larry Alexander sees things differently from me. Alexander’s wife, Lisa, is running for the seat being vacated by Todd McDaniel, and his friend (and current planning commissioner) Jeff McAllister is running for Roberson’s seat. Community members have expressed trepidation about having a married couple hold two of the seven council seats, which led to Ms. Alexander drawing two opponents for the primary election. While
Many great renovations are under way helping to provide for our quality of place. Along with the cosmetic renovations we are also opening the doors and inviting new businesses into our dream that will provide for positive family wage jobs and benefits including affordable housing, education, and a family quality of life. We look forward to the new programs
it can be easy to suspect an effort to “take over” the council by add-
that will help restore the infrastructure within the city including street
ing your friend and spouse onto the council, I believe that is not
and sidewalk repairs. If you are looking for great family activities we
Mr. Alexander’s intention. He’s dedicated to making Kelso a better
offer entertainment in the arts at the historic Columbia Theater, Stage
place and hangs out with people who share that passion and want to contribute. If you’re not comfortable with related councilmembers, both Mr.
Works, Lower Columbia College, our Longview Parks and Recreation programs and the many social service organizations in the community.
McAllister and Ms. Alexander have drawn opponents who merit
Yes, I am bragging about a beautiful and thriving community, but I am
your consideration. Former county commissioner Karnofski and
also inviting you to join our citizens in fulfilling the dream of building
former councilmember Schimmel have challenged Ms. Alexander, and business owner Dan Vannelli opposes McAllister. I look forward to having a couple new team members. I’m choos-
a “Quality of Place” for all of our families and visitors. With our partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development
ing to believe there’s not another team I don’t know about within the
Council, and the many, many, local businesses, we will make it happen.
group.
Please join us in our quest for quality of life and a quality of place.
14 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
PORT TALK PORT OF LONGVIEW NEWSLETTER
All aboard! The Port of Longview is excited to continue its tradition of the Summer Tour Series.
SUMMER TOUR SERIES RETURNS FOR A FOURTH YEAR! of their Port. From cargo handling, to what it means to be Washington’s Working Port, to how we compete globally to achieve local benefits, you’ll learn it all at our Port Tours!
Grab some sunglasses and take a seat on the bus, it’s that time of year again – the Summer Tour Series is just around the corner! Returning for the fourth consecutive year, the Port of Longview is hosting its always popular community tours to give participants a firsthand look at the docks, facilities and equipment that make the Port the economic engine it is today. Dan works in the External Affairs office at the Port.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: DAN POLACEK, COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR How long have you been employed at the Port? I started working for the Port in 2001 and will be celebrating my 17th year as a Port employee in January.
“This year’s Summer Tour Series promises to be our biggest and best yet. Don’t miss out on your chance to participate!” - Brooke Hendrickson, Communications Associate
As an economic cornerstone of our community, we think it is crucial that each citizen have the opportunity to see the Port in action and get a crash course of the Port’s nearly 100-year history. We’re proud of the work we do here, and our Summer Tour Series gives the public the perfect opportunity to see its tax dollars at work.
We offer four dates to accommodate newcomers, as well as those returning for another year of Port fun! Community members will have the option to choose one of eight different tours, ranging in time throughout the day and evening, so everyone can participate!
Port operations are ever-changing, and every year offers a new opportunity for the public to see a new perspective
With nearly 200 people consistently signing up for tours each year, don’t delay, sign up online to reserve your seat!
What’s your favorite part of our Port Tour Series?
REGISTRATION OPENS JUNE 15!
The best thing, without a doubt, is hearing the feedback from community members who have never been to the Port. I think we on staff sometimes forget just how expansive the Port’s footprint is, and that’s what most people seem to take away from a tour at the Port.
To register for a Port Tour visit www.portoflongview.com. You will have the option of eight different tours. Choose which date and time works best for you, complete the form and click submit! We’ll take care of the rest!
What do you hope people take away from the Tour experience?
Tour Dates:
We always hope that our guests learn a lot about what the Port means to the community from an economic standpoint, but we also want them to have a good time and to walk away feeling as proud as we do working at the Port of Longview.ddd
• • • •
WILLOW GROVE PARK UPDATE
• • •
Saturday, July 15th • 10am and 2pm Monday, July 17th • 10am and 2pm Tuesday, July 18th • 10am and 2pm Wednesday, July 19th • 2pm and 6pm
More Information:
Interested in hosting an event at Willow Grove Park? Willow Grove is a great place for reunions, family gatherings and birthdays. To host an event of more than 50 people or to reserve a specific area of the Park, please view the Park Event Policy online at www.portoflongview. com, or contact the Port of Longview at 360.425.3305 for further coordination.
Port Tours offer the perfect combination of history and industry.
COMMISSION MEETINGS
Jeff Wilson / District 1 Doug Averett / District 2 Bob Bagaason / District 3
Regular meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month at 10:00 am and are open to the public. Meeting times are subject to change. For more information, visit portoflongview.com.
Norm Krehbiel
PORTOFLONGVIEW.COM
Questions? Call Brooke at 360.703.0256 or email bhendrickson@portoflongview.com.
COMMISSIONERS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
17_06
Each of the eight scheduled tours is limited to 30 people Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult Groups of 8 or more, please call for special arrangements
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PORT Is there information you would like to see in Port Talk, or do you have questions related to a story that was featured? Please email info@portoflongview.com, or call 360.425.3305
T. 360-425-3305 F. 360-425-8650
10 PORT WAY LONGVIEW, WASHINGTON 98632
By Chuck Nau
Retail Consultant and Sales and Managment Trainier – Murray & Nau, Inc.
Negotiating in these tough times Negotiating, or the simple art of working with another to reach an agreement, is often challenging in good times. Layer on top of that challenge a tough economic environment, and it’s easy to understand how troublesome seeking resolution, compromise or agreement with another can become. Very often in your selling and managing career you are called upon to negotiate, and that alone may cause you a certain amount of anxiety. More often than not, many of us might anticipate that any and all negotiations are difficult situations... To help diffuse your anxiety, minimize some of the consternation, and strengthen your confidence, remind yourself that in negotiating, your objective is not to win or lose at the expense of the other. Don’t look at the negotiation as a problem, but rather an opportunity to excel! Your objective is to seize the opportunity to build a bridge and establish, or re-establish, a relationship, with your client, a vendor, a coworker or a friend. As you approach your client, a vendor, a coworker or a friend in a negotiating mode, consider, if you will, the following... • Be Prepared. Prior to meeting with your client, coworker or a friend make every attempt possible in a timely fashion to learn all you can regarding the current situation and any prior contributing factors. Think through your options, objectives and goals in relation to the current circumstances. What would you like to do? What can you do? Initially begin to prioritize some of your options. • Set the Parameters. At the outset, work to establish open and honest communication between all the involved parties, strive to develop trust, and remember that in order to gather information you need to LISTEN. Don’t tell...rather, ask questions. Be sure that individuals you are negotiating with are able and willing to make any necessary decisions. • Don’t Delay. Procrastinating or putting off the negotiations 'til tomorrow may not be in ALL of the parties’ best interest. Then again, allowing all parties time to let the emotions subside may, indeed, be of benefit. The key is to communicate in a timely fashion, set a resolution timetable, and be faithful to it. • Take the initiative. Be empathetic. Demonstrate, to ALL individuals involved, that you and your small business have a course of action in place to meet and resolve some, if not all, of the parties’ key issues. Be willing to acknowledge an error, but don’t necessarily apologize, and be prepared to articulate what steps you
16 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
will take to prevent its reoccurrence. • Go or No Go. At what point will you feel it necessary to stop the negotiations or bring in additional support or decision makers? If this situation develops, what would be your next step and will it jeopardize not only the current situation but your future relationship with this advertiser, coworker or a friend? • Walk Softly. Don’t be concerned with how fast you are moving toward a compromise, rather be sure you are headed in the right direction. Small compromises along the way may build to an acceptable overall solution. • Thank You. Express your appreciation to the client, vendor, coworker or friend for bringing this, and possibly other (or past) situations to your attention. • Call Back. After an agreement has been reached, touch bases with your client, vendor, coworker or friend to see if their expectations or understandings were met, continue to reinforce your resolution and the value you (and your business) place on the relationship with that client, vendor, coworker or a friend? • Re-establish Your Relationship and Marketing Partnership. Working through a successful compromise and establishing common goals now will help you reestablish and strengthen a future long-term relationship and partnership. Last but not least, remember, again, that in negotiating, your objective is not to win or lose, at the expense of the other. Simply put, it’s the simple art of working with another to reach an agreement, a compromise, a first step forward. Good luck!
© 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 June be directed to Chuck via email: murnau@nwlink.com or at 425-603-0984.
Tuesday, June 13 5:30-7:30 PM 1101 Commerce Ave. Longview $15 in advance $20 at the door COME SEE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LONGVIEW’S NEWEST ADDITION!
• PRIZES • APPETIZERS • BEVERAGES www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Business After Hours
Beautiful Day
Amada Senior Care hosted May's Business After Hours at Roland Wines. Kimberlee Crosby and Molly Monroe addressed the crowd.
Molly Monroe presented one lucky winner with a $100 gift certificate donated by Chamber member Teri Weir, owner of Teri's Restaurant.
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
Jarrett from Ashtown Brewing Company used the event to debut a Cherry Sour and Session Ale.
18 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
Cowlitz County Commissioners By Joe Gardner
Update on a few county happenings As of May 24, your local 911 phone system has been replaced with Next Generation 911 phone equipment. As Washington state completes the emergency service phone network in late 2018, all 911 centers in Washington will have the ability to seamlessly accept not only digital audio, but also media, and other types of data through the 911 IP phone networks. While the old Legacy system was analog, and past end of life, it also lacked Next Generation capabilities. The Legacy system was not capable of accepting the future 911 technology currently available from many cellular phone applications, alarm companies, telematics, including texting, video, and other data delivery sources. The new 911 phone system developed by Emergency Callworks provides several important features of note. The new system has the ability to locate callers quickly using GIS capabilities on an integrated phone map, rerouting to different regional call centers in the event of a natural disaster or high call volumes, the ability to accept multiple types of data, which in the future will provide more detailed information to first responders before they arrive on emergency scenes. Cowlitz County 911 is now ready to accept Next Generation data available today, and future technology as it is developed and the network transport capabilities evolve. Also, Cowlitz County 911 is testing our fully functioning backup site located out of the flood zone at the County Administration Building.
Once testing is complete, we will schedule monthly tests at the backup site to ensure redundancy of emergency answering and dispatch services to our community and the emergency responders. Other recent events include the disbursement of economic development dollars to several local public entities. Every year the county receives certain sales and use tax dollars known as Rural County Public Facility funds. These funds, as stated in RCW 82.14.370, are specifically to “finance public facilities serving economic development purposes in rural counties or to finance personnel in economic development offices.” The Board of Commissioners is tasked with awarding these dollars and as always, this year there were many worthy applicants. The BoCC gives favorable consideration to projects that propose to treat sales tax distribution as a loan, and also looked for projects that could provide economic benefit sooner rather than later. The entities to receive funds for 2017 include the following: •
City of Kalama, $200,000 for the South Port Waterline Extension
•
Cowlitz Economic Development Council, $50,000 for staff support
•
Port of Woodland, $200,000 (half of which will be repaid as a loan) for rail and site construction
•
Industrial Way/ Oregon Way (IWOW), $750,000
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June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 19
Kelso School District
Longview School District
Superintendent Glenn Gelbrich
Superintendent Dan Zorn
Moving up and moving on May is a time of transitions in schools. It’s a transition for both students and staff. Students move from one grade level to another and some students will move from one school to another. Students in grades five, eight and 12 will enter remarkably different environments as they graduate from elementary, middle and high school. Our seniors, in particular, will make perhaps the greatest transition since entering kindergarten. They will move on to post-secondary learning in universities, trade schools, the military, or the work force. Some will enter into missionary work to support their faith. These post-secondary transitions may take place right here in Cowlitz County or perhaps to other locations across our country or around the world. Eighth-grade students will transition to Kelso High School and fifth-grade students will move up to their respective middle schools. In each case, there is an increased level of responsibility and higher expectation for independence and the need for personal initiative that comes with that expanding choice. In each case, there is a new horizon that increasingly consists of considering others – an essential part of what we believe is responsible citizenship in our community. It’s a part of what we mean when we say, “We are Kelso.” As we say good-bye to our seniors, we welcome our incoming kindergarten students – the Class of 2030. In our schools and in our work district-wide, we are determined to see every one of those students graduate. With that end in mind, we are preparing for next year! Have a great safe and wonderful summer!
Services aimed at the 'whole child' Our schools are increasingly confronted with the diverse social and emotional needs our students bring to our classrooms each day. Often times, our students come to us with behavioral and mental health needs that impede their best learning. We are committed to serving the “whole child.” We have readily accepted our responsibility to work with our students, their families, and community health and student support organizations to help our students overcome their unique challenges. To address the mental health needs of our students we are implementing a School-Based Mental Health model in which licensed mental health professionals come directly to our schools to address the needs of students who require this support. These services supplement the counseling and behavior specialist support we provide in our schools. This winter and spring, we partnered with the Kelso School District, the County Health Department, Great Rivers Behavior Health Organization, and local mental health service providers to refine the school based mental health service model. We are working to create a system that is focused on efficiently and expediently getting mental health services to our students at their school. We believe that by bringing these services to the child, at their school, we have a much better chance of getting our students the mental health support needed for future success. By addressing these needs, we will be able to more effectively meet the academic needs of our students. Our district’s primary goal will always be to increase student achievement. However, we recognize that our secondary goal to improve our schools’ climate and culture plays a significant role in increasing achievement levels. We are grateful for the partnerships with our local mental health community to meet this end. This partnership holds great promise as we continue to increase the academic achievement levels of our students. Their support in helping us meet our students’ mental health needs is essential if we are to truly serve the “whole child.”
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Quarterly Luncheon Cowlitz Regional Conference Center
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Take control of your time and get the right things done. A lively, interactive presentation providing strategies and solutions to boost productivity and efficiency. $25 in advance $35 at the door
WHO IS Bethanne Kronick Bethanne Kronick is a nationally recognized productivity strategist, author and trainer working to empower people helping them learn new habits and behaviors so their lives reflect what’s truly important to them. Bethanne’s clients make positive long-term changes, whether it’s managing stacks of paper, overflowing email boxes, busy schedules, clutter space, or facing life’s greater challenges. Simplifynw.com
Teedara Garn, Cowlitz PUD “Simplify” has helped me to focus in on doing the three most important tasks each day, so I can leave work feeling accomplished every day. Anyone who attends is guaranteed to leave with at least one new tool to help simplify their life.
Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Mind Your Own Business (at the Library) By Chris Skaugset
Director – Longview Public Library
Take a little vacation and soak up some bright beach reads Summer is here, well maybe not so much today as I write this
adult summer reading program as well that will reward readers who
month’s column, but it certainly was here and appears to be com-
reach the goal with a free coffee gift card from one of our local coffee
ing back soon. It’s very welcome after the cold, wet winter we en-
establishments.
dured this year. In terms of books, reading, and libraries, summer can mean many things but there are a couple of these that are worth mentioning. The first is the term beach reads. I’m not exactly sure where the phrase came from but it has become synonymous with light reading that doesn’t make you think too hard, i.e. something you might read as your sitting on the beach. Below you’ll find a few beach read worthy titles that will help you pass what will hopefully be a wonderful summer.
I begin this month’s list with Paula Hawkins new suspense novel “Into the Water”. Hawkins burst on the scene in 2015 with the hugely popular “The Girl on the Train”. She comes back with her second novel which tells the story of a town where a single mother and a vulnerable teenage girl both are found dead in the river that runs through town. They aren’t the only women who have lost their lives here and Hawkins explores emotion in memory in this psychological thriller. Graham Simsion, author of the delightful “Rosie Project”
As I’ve mentioned previously, summer means summer reading
returns with a new work “The Best of Adam Sharp”: the story of
programs for children and teens. Every year libraries put on pro-
a man who in midlife has a second chance with the one who got
grams that encourage and incentivize children (and their parents) to
away and all that means. “Exit West” by Mohsin Hamid is the lat-
read over the summer. It is clear from numerous studies done that
est by the Booker-nominated author. “We are all migrants through
children who participate in a summer reading program are less like-
time,” the author observes and this beautiful, haunting novel tells the
ly to have what educators call “the summer slide.” This is the effect of
story of star-crossed lovers in a war-torn city and theirs, and others,
the long layoff from school over the summer. At the beginning of the
only escape is through the mysterious “doors.” It is a meditation on
school year, teachers often have to start by getting students back to
our current world that I fully recommend as one of the best books
the place they were when school let out before they can begin teach-
I’ve read this year. Mark Kurlansky, author of numerous fascinating
ing anything new. Summer reading programs help eliminate, or at least lessen, this slide. We usually have around 1,200 children participate in the program where they set goals for reading and win prizes when they reach those goals. This year’s theme for children, teens, and our new adult program, is “Build a Better World.” The children and teen’s program will run very similarly to previous years and will with sign up starting June 23 when school is out. We are having a big, all ages Harry Potter Party for the 20th anniversary of the first book on June 27 at 6 p.m. Throughout the summer we’ll have teen events on Tuesdays at 6 p.m., family events Wednesdays at 2 p.m., baby story time Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., and outdoor stories and crafts Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Our last event is our big Summer Picnic on August 2 outside on the lawn. It will feature prop comic Alex Zerbe and there will be free hot dogs and snow cones for everyone who attends. For the first time in a very long time, we are offering an 22 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
titles including “Salt and Cod” returns with his wonderfully personal meditation on Havana that is part history, part travelogue and all around wonderful book, aptly entitled “Havana: A Subtropical Delirium”. With the warming of relations with Cuba, this seemed like the perfect time for this book. Bestselling author Douglas Preston returns to writing non-fiction with “The Lost City of the Monkey God”. What more can someone want in a beach read: A 500-year-old legend; an ancient curse; a stunning medical mystery; and a pioneering journey into the unknown heart of the world's densest jungle. And it’s a true story. “My Life with Bob” is Pamela Paul’s love letter to reading and books. Bob (her book of books) is the list of books she had read beginning in high school and continuing throughout her life. Any lover of books and reading will joyfully follow Paul along on her life through books and their impact on our lives. Happy summer and happy reading!
2017
Monday, June 19th 1pm Shotgun Start Make your Reservations Early! Early Entry Fee $500 per Team of 4 (Price goes to $600 on May 26th) $125 per Individual ($150 after May 26th) Includes: Lunch, driving range, $5,000 putting contest, awards ceremony, BBQ dinner, 18 holes of fellowship, $10,000 hole-in-one opportunity and two carts per team. We will give you a call the first week of June to secure the people playing on your team. Register at www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
PeaceHealth St. John – Wellness in the Workplace Susie Griffin
Wellness Services Coordinator
Healthy eating, healthy working We have all heard the saying, “you are what you eat,” which means that the decisions and actions we make are directly influenced by the food we choose to eat. High quality foods that contain many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, not only fuel the body, but also nourish and protect the brain from anti-oxidative stress. If we eat well-balanced meals and snacks, we tend to be more well balanced. If we don’t, we won’t. This simplistic statement sounds like a very easy theory to put into practice. However, for most of us, most of the time, it isn’t. For example, you sleep through your alarm. You have a few minutes to wake up, get up, clean up, get dressed and out the door. You think to yourself, “I’ll just grab one of those banana bread-scone-muffinpastry things with my cream and sugar coffee on the way into work. That will tide me over until lunch.” However, work responsibilities, emergencies and prolonged meetings move that good intention further away. Your blood sugar plummets and affects your ability to stay awake, let alone focus and finish that email. Soon after, you find your way to the closest vending machine to grab something to see you through that last meeting. Sound familiar? What steps can we take to help ensure that we start our work day off fully fueled and functioning at top speed?
1. Bring your own lunch. This will not only save your pocket book, but calories as well. According to some resources, at least one-third cost and calories from fat and sugar are reduced when you spend time bringing your homemade lunch into work. 2. Keep a cache of healthy snacks near your desk or in the breakroom. To help maintain blood sugar levels, consider seeds, raw nuts, dried fruit (make sure you consume lots of water with these; the sugar content is higher than its fresher counterpart), nut butters, air popped popcorn, jerky, roasted seaweed, whole food granola bars, oatmeal packets, tuna packets, dark chocolate, trail mixes or roasted chickpeas, to name a few. 3. Water. Dehydration can impair short-term memory function and the recall of long-term memory. Upon waking, drink a class of water and refill that 8-ounce bottle once or twice during your workday. 4. Get up and Move Out! Regular exercise helps improve the supply of blood, which contains the fuel our cells need to function. (By the way, the brain consumes about 20 percent of our total calorie consumption.) For more PeaceHealth, see page page 25
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24 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
PeaceHealth, continued from page 24 In Cowlitz County, we are blessed with incredible local sources of high quality, whole foods. Some considerations are: • Lower Columbia School Gardens Produce Sale. Wednesdays, Northlake School, www.lcschoolgardens.org • Cowlitz On The Move. Find information on local agencies, programs and farms at www.cowlitzonthemove.org • Cowlitz Farmers Market. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Event Center. • WSU Master Gardeners and Extension Service. http://gardening. wsu.edu/
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May Ambassador of the Month Pam Whittle
American Workforce Group
Newcomer greets role with zeal It hasn’t taken long for Pam Whittle to embrace her red coat. The
Married since 2013, she and her family live in Kalama. In her spare
business developer from American Workforce Group has earned the
time, she enjoys visiting tap rooms and breweries and getting out-
Chamber of Commerce’s May Ambassador of the Month honor.
doors.
At American Workforce Group, she helps businesses find the right
Chamber Ambassadors, known as the Red Coats, are an integral part of
employee. Since becoming a Chamber Ambassador in the fall, Pam
the Chamber of Commerce. The Ambassador team is made up of active
has jumped in – volunteering to champion new members.
Chamber volunteers whose responsibilities include meeting and greeting
According to Pam, her favorite Ambassador activity is to greet peo-
at Chamber events, welcoming new members and assisting at ribbon cut-
ple at the door of Chamber events because she gets to talk to every-
tings and community events. Ambassadors juggle busy professional careers
one. Away from the Chamber spotlight, she is involved in Longview
while making time to assist the Chamber at a variety of events year long. If
Early Edition Rotary, serves as the current chair for the Lower Co-
you would be interested in wearing a red coat and representing the Cham-
lumbia Professionals, and assists with the Kalama Chamber.
ber, contact CEO Bill Marcum at the Chamber office.
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Workforce Southwest Washington
WorkSourceWA.com launches hospitality industry page to help fill jobs A recent survey by the Washington Hospi-
America dream as nine out of 10 owners and
tality Association of its 6,500 members had 30
managers started at entry-level hospitality
percent reporting their greatest business chal-
jobs.
lenge was finding good talent. It was the single biggest need they identified.
• The hospitality industry serves as a pipeline for people entering the workforce. It supports
As hospitality businesses across the state
training programs such as ProStart, which de-
are struggling to fill positions, the Hospitality
velops and teaches skills to more than 1,500
Association asked the state’s Employment Se-
high school students per year in our state.
curity Department (ESD) for help recruiting talent and creating greater awareness about potential career fields within the industry.
The goal is to make this industry page the first of many. In the meantime, Workforce Southwest Washington’s Industry Initiatives
As a collaborative partner with WorkSource,
Managers are meeting with manufacturing,
ESD launched a hospitality micro-website on
construction, health care and technology
WorkSourceWA.com to promote careers in
businesses to develop workforce plans to ad-
hospitality, available training and links to job
dress industry needs for training and skilled
openings.
workers and to develop a pipeline of young
The microsite is responsive, meaning it scales to fit the size of the device on which it
people interested in working in these industries.
is being viewed, whether that’s a desktop com-
If you would like to learn about workforce
puter, tablet or mobile device. The hospital-
development opportunities and activities in
ity information can be reached through the
your industry, contact Workforce Southwest’s
resources section just below the center of the
Industry Initiatives Managers:
WorkSourceWA home page. A few Hospitality Industry facts: • Approximately 10 percent of workers in Washington state, nearly a quarter of a million people, are employed in the hospitality industry. • These jobs contribute more than $5 billion in wages, $1 billion in Business and Occupation (B&O) taxes and billions in direct financial impact to our state. • The industry allows people to attain the
• Cass Parker (manufacturing and technology) cparker@workforcesw.org, 360-567-1076 • Melissa Boles (construction and health care) mboles@workforcesw.org, 360-5673185. If you are in the hospitality industry and would like assistance posting jobs and finding qualified candidates, contact WorkSource Cowlitz/Wahkiakum Business Consultant Donna Hughes at dhughes@esd.wa.gov or 360-578-4259. June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 27
In The News Cowlitz PUD has earned the American Public Power Association’s Safety Award of Excellence.
Cowlitz PUD honored with National Award for Outstanding Safety Practices Cowlitz PUD has earned the American Public Power Association’s Safety Award of Excellence for safe operating practices in 2016. The utility earned the First Place award in the category for utilities with 250,000999,999 worker-hours of annual worker exposure. Rick Aguilar, chair of the APPA Safety Committee and director of Job Training and Safety at Kansas Municipal Utilities, presented the award on May 8, during the Association’s annual Engineering and Operations Technical Conference, held in San Antonio, Texas. “When it comes to electric utility operations, safety is a top priority for everyone involved; from lineman to operator,” Aguilar said. “These utilities have embraced a culture of safety while serving their local communities and deserve to be recognized.” Two hundred and 70 utilities entered the annual Safety Awards, which is among the highest number of entrants in the history of the program. Entrants were placed in categories according to their number of worker hours and ranked based on the most incident-free records during 2016. The incidence rate, used to judge entries, is based on the number of work-related reportable injuries or illnesses and the number of workerhours during 2016, as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Manage prizes and rewards • Assist at library events Library volunteers must complete an application, pass a criminal background check, and attend a training session. Applications are available at the library at the downstairs checkout desk. Training is scheduled for June 3 from 10 a.m. to noon and June 6 from 6-8 p.m. Choose which training date works best for you! Summer Reading begins June 23 and ends August 5. Summer Reading at the library combats summer slide, a problem where young people who are not engaged over the summer return to school several months behind. Participating in Summer Reading means that kids are ready to learn in the fall. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and have fun while doing it.
Chief Duscha encourages neighborhood groups to hold National Night Out parties Longview Police Chief Jim Duscha is encouraging neighborhood groups to hold National Night Out parties on August 1. National Night Out, promoted by the National Association of Town Watch, is an annual celebration for communities occurring on the first Tuesday in August. It is an opportunity for communities to “say goodbye to crime,” and bring attention to crime and drug prevention awareness, and generate support in anti-crime efforts, such as the Block Watch For more In The News, see page 29
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“Cowlitz PUD takes a lot of pride in its safety record,” said Chris Marlowe, director of operations of Cowlitz PUD. “When you are in the business we are in, sending our folks home safe to their families is our top priority.” The Safety Awards have been held annually for the last 58 years. The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide.
Volunteer for Summer Reading Program at the Longview Public Library The Longview Public Library is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Summer Reading Program for children and teens. Young people across the country will be invited to “Build a Better World” at their libraries this summer, and you can be a vital part of that as a Summer Reading volunteer. • Get youth excited for reading and events at the library • Help families sign up for the reading program 28 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
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
In The News continued from page 28 program. Neighborhoods are encouraged to have barbecues, potlucks or other activities to allow for visiting with neighbors. Neighborhood groups wanting to hold block parties should apply for a Special Use Permit if they plan to close their streets for National Night Out activities. There is no fee for a Special Use Permit (for a simple block party), but paperwork must be turned in at least 60 days (June 1) 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 (July 5). Special Use Permit applications are available online at www.mylongview. com or at Longview City Hall, 1525 Broadway St., or at the Longview Police Department Highlands Satellite Office, 216 30th Ave., Suite C. Completed Special Use Permits must be turned in at the engineering department at City Hall, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Neighborhood groups who are planning National Night Out activities and would like representatives of the Longview Police Department to participate are asked to contact Cpl. Jenkins at 360-442-5883, or danielle.jenkins@ci.longview.wa.us, by July 17.
Community Life Jacket Loaner Board locations announced for summer The Longview Fire Department would like to remind everyone about the Life Jacket Loaner Board locations. · Willow Grove 1 at Boat Launch and 2 by the swimming area · County Line Park
Care, Lakeside Industries, Longview Police Benefit Association and various individuals who contributed $20 to $750 each to show their support of the event. The City of Longview’s tourism fund also contributes to attract people from outside the area to visit. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE 10am
No Noe Ka Mauna (Hawaiian hula) inside
11am
Turquoise Pride (Native American drumming) inside
11:30am No Noe Ka Mauna (Hawaiian hula) outside Noon
World Fashion Show (audience encouraged to participate) inside
12:20am Grupo Santa Rosa (Mexican dance) inside 1pm
Morning Star (Korean dance) inside
1:30pm Wild Rose Garland (English dance) outside 2pm
Cochise Anderson (Native American storytelling) inside
3pm
Spirit of Ojah (Ghanaian music) inside
All planning committee members volunteer their time to put on the event. However, the festival committee is still seeking a few more volunteers to help during the festival and afterward to clean up. Those who wish to volunteer are asked to contact Werth no later than 1 p.m. June 2. For more information about the International Festival or to sign up as a volunteer, please text or call 360-751-4427 or e-mail cindylopezwerth@ comcast.net. The event flyer is available at www.ethnicsupportcouncil. org on the website’s events page.
· Castle Rock Boat Launch · Horseshoe Lake · Merwin Dam If you are swimming or boating in any of these areas and you or your family need a life jacket, just go to the board and borrow one. We have all sizes from infant to adult. When you are done using them for the day, just hang them back up on the board for the next person. It’s that easy. If you are interested in purchasing a life jacket, Longview Fire has coupons for 25 percent off your life jacket purchase. The coupons are good at Big 5 Sporting Goods or Bob’s Sporting Goods.
Longview invites world to 27th annual International Festival June 3 Attendees from beyond Cowlitz County can win cash in special drawings before last five performances. Lower Columbia College Student Center will be alive with music and dance from around the world June 3 as the Ethnic Support Council puts on its 27th annual International Festival in Longview. The event, co-sponsored by the LCC Multicultural Club, will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the student center and outside it. In partnership, the NanoCon International Film Festival will be held noon to 2 p.m. in the Wollenberg Auditorium in the LCC Rose Center. That event is put on by the LCC Science Fiction Club in cooperation with the college’s Business, Information and Technology Club. Admission is free, thanks to donations from Bruno’s Pizza, Columbia Auto Group, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Cowlitz PUD, Kirkpatrick Family June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 29
Chamber Connection
Fundraiser
Chaplain Tom Haan cruised into the studio to talk to Carey and Karen about the Cowlitz Chaplaincy Benefit Dinner and Auction, while Ian Thompson from the Lower Columbia School Gardens told listeners about the upcoming plant sale.
Jimmy Lara with Lara Casa Real Cigars brought in samples for Karen and Lindsey. Randy McLesky of Budget Blinds of Longview and Karen caught up on business.
“Your Chamber Connection� EVERY Wednesday Hosts of the Show: Carey Mackey, Red Canoe Credit Union ; Brooke Fisher-Clark, United Way, Karen Sisson, NORPAC, and Lindsey Cope with the Chamber. 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 30 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
Stream live at www.kedoam.com Local guest and current events
Chamber Connection
Veterans' Day
Leo Kessler, Wayne Gross and William Bangs from the Longview American Legion/Cowlitz County Veterans Service Center presented information about programs they offer. Later, Janine Manny with the YMCA of Southwest Washington strolled in with updates.
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
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New Members
Add your business to our growing membership – Call 360-423-8400 Today!
Connect Wireless – AT&T 3351 Three Rivers Drive, No. 1128 Kelso, WA 98626 360-425-6966
Kevin Wasson – American Family Insurance 827 B Ocean Beach Highway Longview, WA 98632 360-425-4000
Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.
• Newsletter
• Annual Meeting and Banquet • Networking Events
• Business Card Display • 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
• Task Forces
Meetings
• Candidate Forums
• Civic Representation
• Legislative Update Breakfast
• Monthly Business After Hours
• Demographics Publication
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 32 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
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.
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. Acupuncture Northwest Advanced Message and Dispatch All Out Sewer & Drain Service, Inc. Altrusa International Inc. of Longview-Kelso American Medical Response Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC Animal Health Services, Inc., PS Arnitz, Suzanne B & R Mini Storage Baker Lumber Company, Inc. Banda's Bouquets Baxter Auto Parts Inc. Be Cause Business Resources, Inc. Beacon Hill Rehabilitation Beacon Hill Sewer District Behrends Body Shop Best Western Aladdin Inn Better Business Bureau Bicoastal Media LV DBA KLYK/KRQT/ KEDO/KBAM/KPPK Biggs Insurance Services Bob Beal Insurance Agency Inc. – State Farm Bob's Sporting Goods Brown & Brown Northwest Insurance Brusco Tug and Barge, Inc. Budget Blinds of Longview Building Industry Association of Clark County Burger King – Longview (Main) Busack Electric. Inc. C's Photography Cadillac Island Casino Calportland – formerly Glacier Northwest Canterbury Gardens Canterbury Inn Canterbury Park Carl's Towing Service & Repair, Inc. Carlson's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Cascade Natural Gas Corporation Cascade Select Market Cascade Title Company Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce CCS City of Kelso City of Longview Clay Bartness Coldwell Banker Bain
Cole's Appliance Repair Collins Architectural Group, P.S. Columbia Bank – Longview Branch Columbia Ford Hyundai Nissan Columbia Funeral Service Columbia River Mill Outlet Columbia River Reader Columbia Security Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts Columbia Wellness Comcast Comcast Spotlight Comfort Inn Community Home Health & Hospice Congressman Brian Baird Continental Investors Services, Inc. Copies Today Speedy Litho, Inc. Corwin Beverage Costco Wholesale Country Village Nutrition Shoppe and Cafe Cowlitz Container & Diecutting Cowlitz County Cowlitz County CASA Cowlitz County Museum Cowlitz County P.U.D. Cowlitz County Title Company Cowlitz Economic Development Council Cowlitz Indian Tribe Cowlitz River Rigging, Inc. Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments Craig Stein Beverage Dahl McVicker Funeral Homes David E. Houten, DDS Davis & Associates, CPAs, PS Day Wireless Systems DBA Interiors Plus DeFrancisco Lampitt and Brado PS Diamond Showcase Dick Hannah Toyota Document Management Archives Dorothy Bain Hanson DSU Peterbilt Ecological Land Services, Inc. Educational Service District No. 112 Edward Jones – Nick Lemiere Eldon Robbins Auto Sales, Inc. Emerald Kalama Chemical
Emergency Support Shelter Entek Corporation Eoff Electric Company Epson Portland Erickson Glass Co. Estetica Day Spa Express Employment Professionals Fairway Collections Family Health Center Fibre Federal Credit Union – Castle Rock Branch Fibre Federal Credit Union – Kelso Branch Fibre Federal Credit Union – Main Branch Fibre Federal Credit Union – Ocean Beach Branch Fibre Federal Credit Union – West Kelso Branch Fibre Federal Credit Union – Woodland Branch Fiesta Bonita Mexican Grill & Cantina Fire Mountain Grill & Summerland Catering Services Foster Farms Fred Meyer, Inc. Freddy's Just for The Halibut Frontier Rehabilitation & Extended Care Center Futcher Group G L Booth – J G Davis & Associates Gallery of Diamonds Gibbs & Olson, Inc. Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing Goodwill of the Olympics and Rainier Region Gordon Sondker Green Hills Crematory – Cascade NW Funeral Chapel Guesthouse Inn & Suites H & S Enterprises Habitat For Humanity – Cowlitz County Hart C's Steakburger & Thai Food Hart Radiator Heartsong Massage Heritage Bank – Kelso Heritage Bank – Longview Hilander Dental Housing Opportunities of SW Washington (HOSWWA)
June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 33
Welcome Back! Humane Society of Cowlitz County Interstate Wood Products, Inc J H Kelly, L.L.C J. L. Storedahl & Sons, Inc. Jansen Flowers & Gift Gallery Kaiser Permanente Kalama Chamber of Commerce KapStone Kay Green Kellogg Supply, Inc. Kelso Rotary Kelso School District Kelso Theater Pub Kelso-Longview Television, Inc. (KLTV) KeyBank KLOG/KUKN/the WAVE Radio Stations Koelsch Senior Communities L. G. Isaacson Company Last Mile, Inc. Les Schwab Tire Center Les Schwab Tire Center Life Mortgage Life Works Longview Country Club Longview Downtowners Longview Early Edition Rotary Longview Eye & Vision/Drs. Terry & Jeff Tack Longview Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Crematory Longview Orthopedic Associates, PLLC Longview Pawnbrokers Longview Physical & Sports Therapy Services Longview Public Schools Longview Radiologists, PS, Inc. Longview Self Storage Longview Timber Corp Longview Tire Sales, Inc. Longview Urology Lower Columbia CAP Lower Columbia College Lower Columbia Contractors Association Lower Columbia Economic Development Council M & R Painting, Inc. Masthead Restaurant McCord Bros. Nissan Dodge McDonald's of Longview McDonald's of Longview II Millennium Bulk Terminals Miller Paint
Mint Valley Federal Credit Union Minuteman Press Mobile Mic Entertainment Motion Industries, Inc. Mt St Helens Creation Information Center Music & More DJ's N. W. Deli Distribution, Inc. Newrock Homes, Inc Nipp & Tuck Inc. Noelle McLean PS North Pacific Paper Corporation/NORPAC Northwest Auto Specialist, Inc. Northwest Hardwoods, Inc. Northwest Motor Service Ocean Beach Animal Hospital Ocean Beach Self Storage Office Depot Max Omelettes & More Opsahl Dawson Overhead Door Company of Southwest Washington Pacific Fibre Products, Inc. Pacific Lumber & Shipping Co. Pacific Office Automation Pacific Tech Construction, Inc. Papa Pete's Pizza – Longview Pape' Machinery Paperbacks Galore, Inc. Pathways 2020 PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center Foundation Performance Sheet Metal, Inc. Peter C. Wagner, DMD,PS Pets, Pawns & Imports PNE Construction Port of Longview Prestige Senior Living Monticello Park Prographyx Progress Center Propel Insurance Real Living The Real Estate Group Red Canoe Credit Union Red Canoe Credit Union – 30th Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center Renaud Electric Company, Inc. Reprographics, Inc. Retirement Strategies Riverview Community Bank Rodman Realty, Inc. Roland Winery and Tasting Room Safway Services, Inc.
34 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2017
Searing Electric & Plumbing Servpro of Longview/Kelso Sessions Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Shamrock Spirits & Grill Sierra Pacific Mortgage Signature Transport, Inc. Snap Fitness Somerset Retirement Home and Assisted Living Southwest Washington Blood Program Stageworks Northwest State Farm Insurance – Scott Fischer Steel Painters/Railco Steele Chapel Longview Memorial Park Stewart Title Stirling Honda Strand Insurance Suburban Propane Super 8 of Kelso/Longview Superior Tire Service, Inc. SW Washington Symphony Swanson Bark & Wood Products, Inc. Sweet Spot Frozen Yogurt T.C.'s R.V. & Mini Storage, Inc. Taco Time Teague's Interiors Teri's Restaurant The Daily News The Dog Zone The Golden Palace The Red Hat The Roof Doctor, Inc. The UPS Store #3052 Three Rivers Christian School – High School Campus Three Rivers Eye Care Three Rivers Mall Timothy E. Nelson, DDS TSYS Merchant Solutions Twin City Bank Twin City Glass Co. Twin City Service Co. US Senator Patty Murray U.S. Cellular Umpqua Bank United Finance United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties Utilize I.T., Inc. Viking Automatic Sprinkler Company Wal*Mart Walstead Mertsching PS
Welcome Back! Washington State University – Vancouver Wasser & Winters Company Waste Control Recycling, Inc. Watkins Tractor & Supply Co. Weatherguard, Inc.
Weyerhaeuser Wilcox & Flegel Oil Company Willamette Dental William (BJ) R. Boatsman Woodford Commercial Real Estate
Woodland Chamber of Commerce WorkPlace Wellness WorkSource – Cowlitz/Wahkiakum Youth & Family Link Zip Local
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. June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 35
Ribbon Cuttings
Roll On!
Chamber Ambassadors welcomed Jimmy Lara and his business, Lara Casa Real Cigars, to the Chamber. At Lara Casa Real Cigars, they roll and create customized cigars for you or your special event.
See more photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page or click here.
Eating Good in the Neighborhood
May was a big month for Applebee's – joining the Chamber and kicking off their annual Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation fundraiser in the fight against childhood cancer.
36 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | June 2018
Ribbon Cuttings
Sweet Dreams
Everyone deserves a quality sleep and a business like Innovative Sleep Orders deserves a great ribbon cutting like the one our Chamber Ambassadors threw to welcome Dr. Razavi and his team to town.
LeeRoy Parcel Manager/LPO leeroy@cascade-title.com
alize peci We s moving in os pian 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
Residential & Commercial 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
360-992-8702 ancmovers.com June 2017 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | 37