Klc biz 8 14

Volume 6, No. 8

August 2014

Business Kelso Longview

Connection Chamber of Commerce

Calendar Saturday

August 2 – 8:30 a.m.

Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening Sportsman's Warehouse Three Rivers Mall

Monday

August 4 – Noon Government Affairs Committee Masthead Restaurant 1210 Ocean Beach Hwy., Longview

Tuesday

August 5 – 11:30 a.m.

Ribbon Cutting A First Place 309 Oak St., Kelso

Wednesday

August 6 – Noon Ribbon Cutting Avery's Air-Cooled 1205 S. Pacific Ave., Kelso

Photos from Joan Toone's talk

During the 1950s and 1960s hospital wards filled with polio patients, many children, on ventilators. The disease still cripples children in parts of the world.

Longview Rotary Clubs rally to wipe out polio

Thursday

It was Valentine’s Day when local Rotary International leaders fell in love with Joan Toone’s message.

Tuesday

“She touches your heart,” said Mary Lou Bissett, Assistant District Governor for Area 16 Rotary. “That’s when they knew they wanted to bring her to their communities.”

Thursday

As a child, Toone contracted polio, an infectious disease that often strikes children, mainly under the age of 5. Polio can cause paralysis and sometimes death.

Toone was diagnosed before Dr. Jonas Salk and Dr. Albert Sabin could make

August 7 – 7:30 a.m.

Ambassador Committee Meeting Canterbury Park, 1335 3rd Ave., Longview August 12 – 5:30 p.m.

Business After Hours Mint Valley Golf Course 4002 Pennsylvania St., Longview August 14 – 3 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting Apple Family Dental 2020 A 9th Ave., Longview

Every Wednesday

Chamber Connections KEDO / 1400AM – 3-4 p.m.

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

their vaccines part of a child’s regular immunization record.

Toone shared her story of survival, sterile white coats and iron lungs at Rotary’s President Elect Training session in February. As president of the Post Polio Awareness and Support Society of British Columbia, she will relive her memories and discuss the continued battle she wages with the disease’s scars during two Rotary-hosted public events.

Longview, Kelso, Longview Early Edi-

Please see Polio, page 2

End Polio Now | August 6 | 5:30 p.m.

Lower Columbia College Rose Center for the Arts’ | Wollenberg Auditorium Joan Toone will speak at this Rotary sponsored event

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Polio from page 1 tion and Woodland Rotary clubs are planning an End Polio Now event August 6 at Lower Columbia College’s Rose Center for the Arts’ Wollenberg Auditorium. A 5:30 p.m. social hour, is followed by Toone’s presentation at 6:30.

Neighboring Centralia, Chehalis and Twin Cities Rotary clubs present Toone at 7 p.m. August 5 at Corbet Theater in Washington Hall on the Centralia College campus.

The events are twofold – awareness and fundraiser.

For nearly 30 years, Rotary International has been working with worldwide health organizations to eradicate polio through its Polio Plus Program. It is almost there.

Today, the number of cases of the disease has been reduced by 99 percent worldwide. But new outbreaks, lack of education and the ease of global travel make eradication a challenge.

the late 1940s and early 1950s.

Rotary members in their 60s and 70s, may recall a time when they, as children, were not allowed to go outside, when travel was restricted and when public health officials imposed quarantines.

“The younger generation doesn’t understand polio,” said Brad Link, President of the Longview Rotary Club. Most have not seen it in their lifetime. The United States has been polio-free since 1979.

According to Rotary End Polio Now, since 1988, the number of polio cases worldwide has been reduced from 350,000 a year to fewer than 700 cases in 2011. The Americas were declared free from polio in 1994, the Western Pacific region in 2000, and

According to the Centers for Disease Control, polio was one of the most feared diseases of the 20th century, crippling an average of more than 35,000 people each year in the United States in

Please see Polio, page 4

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1452 Hudson St. • US Bank Building Suite 208 • Longview, WA 360.423.9921 www.cowlitzedc.com

Wollenberg Auditorium

Located in the Rose Center for Arts Building at LCC Wednesday, August 6, 2014

“P ut tin g a fa c e on Pol i o” 5:30 pm social • 6:30 Presentation by Joan Toone • 7:00 Closing Message (from Polio Plus) Wine & Hors d’oeuvres available

Joan Toone, Polio Survivor Cost is $20 for 2 tiCkets • 100% ProCeeds donated to Polio Plus the Gates foundation will Contribute double the amount sold Hosted by: Kelso Rotary Club Longview Rotary Club Longview Early Edition Rotary Club Woodland Rotary Club

TickeTs AvAilAble AT The kelso longview chAmber of commerce 105 minor rd. kelso wa 98632 • or online at www.kelsolonGviewChamber.orG

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Polio from page 2

ting the cause. In addition, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will double the amount raised.

Europe in 2002.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation doubling our effort,” Link said.

Yet, polio still exists in the world. Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan have never stopped transmission of the wild polio virus.

It’s also a wonderful opportunity for the four distinct local Rotary Clubs to work together.

“I heard a speaker who said we are only a plane ride away from polio exposure,” Bissett said. “If you look at the world today, we are so mobile. It is only a plane ride away.”

“This is kind of a first for us, getting all four clubs together,” said Link, who has been with the Longview Noon group for 15 years. “Forging a joint venture has been a goal of all the clubs for sometime.”

“There’s a big push to finish this,” Link said of the organization’s most recent campaign. “Rotary needs to finish this.”

“We have the ability to truly eradicate this disease. Wipe it off the planet,” Bissett said.

They are hoping their teamwork pays off with a big turnout.

Tickets are available at the Kelso Longview Chamber office or online at kelsolongviewchamber.org

Since 1985, Rotary International has raised more than $1.2 billion toward the effort. For as little as 60 cents worth of oral vaccine, a child can be protected from the disease for life.

In Centralia, tickets may be purchased at the door, or, in advance, at Heymann Whinery and Holiday Inn Express and Suites.

The local Rotary Clubs are charging $20 for two tickets to attend Polio Plus events with 100 percent of the proceeds benefit-

2222 S. River Rd. Kelso • 423-4653 Marlo Rivers

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Quarterly Membership Luncheon Date: Thursday, September 18, 2014 Location: Cowlitz Regional Conference Center

Time: 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Cost: $25 advance/$35 at door Join us for the third quarter membership luncheon and meeting! Hear from our Kelso and Longview city officials and mayors on current projects, progress, challenges and more!

David Futcher Mayor of Kelso

Steve Taylor City Manager, Kelso

Don Jensen Mayor of Longview

Bob Gregory City Manager, Longview

Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

CEO’s Message

Boot Camp marketing series gets sales off on the right foot

By Bill Marcum CEO – Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

ing and understanding.

The final Small Business Boot Camp series – Marketing and Sales Six Pack – will begin September 5 and continue each Wednesday until October 9. Chuck Nau with Murray & Nau, Inc., of Bellevue will be here for this important final series. Chuck has more than 25 years of advertising, sales, media and management experience and knows and understands the everyday challenges of running a business in today’s ever-changing retail climate. Read Chuck’s article on Page 10, he is a very high-energy, to-the-point speaker who will get your attention and expects you to get results.

September 12 – Marketing – On Stage, strategies, tactics, implementation (next steps from September 5 class).

All six classes for members is $100 and that covers up to three people from your business. That works out to less than $5.50 per class. Non-Chamber members pay only $160 for up to three people or less than $9 per class. How can you NOT take advantage of this training?

September 26 – Sales People, value, expectations, inspection of those expectations.

Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray & Nau, Inc.

Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray & Nau, Inc. September 19 – Social Media Marketing, what is it really and why do I need it?

Facilitator: Tom May, Mayhem LLC, Seattle

Facilitator: Bill Marcum, Kelso Longview Chamber CEO October 3 – Sales 101, bring your sales people, up to three, additional people from your business can also attend this session. This session is for them.

Here is a list of the classes: September 5 – Marketing – Behind the Scenes, analysis, budget-

Facilitator: John McDonagh, Vancouver Business Journal October 10 – Customer Service, how to answer the phone to working with difficult customers.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Team

Facilitator: Chris Bailey, President Lower Columbia College Once again all six classes for members is $100 and that covers you and up to three employees from your business, and just $60 more for non-members. I guarantee you won't find a better deal out there.

Bill Marcum, CEO Karen Sisson, Project Manager Amy Hallock, Bookkeeper

As a bonus, any business that purchases a full Six Pack will be invited to a free workshop presented by Chris Bailey, Lower Columbia College president, titled Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Wednesday, October 24, from 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Kelso Longview Business Connection is published monthly by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce.

105 N. Minor Road • Kelso, WA 98626 • 360-423-8400

You can register online at kelsolongviewchamber.org or call us at 360-423-8400. Want better sales people, more revenue for your bottom line, a better understanding of social media and how it can help your business? This series is for you. Sign up today.

To advertise, call Bill Marcum, 360-423-8400 or e-mail bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org.

Ad Deadline: 20th of each month.

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Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

A Letter from Bob Gregory

City manager announces resignation July 24, 2014 Mayor and City Council Management Team Re: Resignation Dear Team Longview: I have been extremely blessed to be a public servant and have enjoyed having the opportunity to contribute and make a difference in this community and Longview. After 35 years of public service, 31 of those years in Cowlitz County,and the last 16 years with the City of Longview, my wife and I have reflected on what we have accomplished and what lies ahead for us and I have decided it is time for me to leave my position as City Manager by December 31 of this year.

When I came to the City of Longview in 1998 to become the City's Public Works Director, not in my wildest dreams did I expect to be sitting here today as Longview’s City Manager. I want to express my appreciation for having the honor to be the City Manager for this City for what is going on 10 years. I have said many times that I have been blessed to have been entrusted to lead this organization and I want to thank the City Council and the citizens of Longview for this honor.

Local government is a fascinating and challenging career and engaging with citizens, business, and agencies at the federal, state, and local level has taught me patience, perseverance, commitment, humility, and to hopefully maintain a sense of humor. As I will reach the ripe age of 60 at the end of this year, I know there are other life, community, and professional challenges awaiting.

It seems like the time is right. Council, our citizens, and this incredible City staff have persevered and worked tirelessly to lead this community through the worst economic times in our memory. In spite of this and other challenges, we have completed the final pieces of infrastructure and have a completely entitled Mint Farm Industrial Park; accomplished the 2 largest public works projects in the City’s history, the West Longview sewer lagoon diversion and conversion to a groundwater supply; provided hope and optimism in our Highlands neighborhood with improved infrastructure, organizational, and housing initiatives; made significant investment in our downtown including the Columbia and Longview Stageworks performing arts theatres, a creative outdoor art gallery, and our imminent streetscape improvement project; to name a few. There are other initiatives that I will regret I will not see to completion including the Washington Way Bridge, the Tennant Way entry way, SR 432 highway and rail project, but I hope that I leave behind the foundation that will guide these projects to reality.

I want to thank the City Council for the opportunity to serve as City Manager. I have lots of great memories and I know there are many elements of this position and organization I am going to miss, and some things I won't! I am very proud of the management team and all of our employees we have assembled here and I hope council and the citizens of Longview appreciate the talented, capable, and committed employees that serve this community. It has been an honor to lead them during the past 10 years and I wish them all continued success.

Sincerely,

Bob Gregory City Manager

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Attention Business Owners

Make

Longview Beautiful

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

Mint Valley Golf Course

Does Your Business Have Curb Appeal?

Your company’s curb appeal goes a long way toward winning customers over and growing revenue. Even if you are not a retail business your curb appeal sends a message to passer-buyers about the quality of your work. Your business appearance projects an image to potential customers and local residents making them more or less inclined to visit or otherwise support your business.

Win the Mayor’s Award for “Best Curb Appeal” All Longview businesses are eligible to win a Mayors award for Best Curb Appeal Improvement. During the months of June-July 2014, you can nominate a business that has made the be best improvement by posting a “before” and “after” photo.

Go to our Facebook page: Make Longview Beautiful. Those visiting this page can “Like” the one they feel has made the best improvement. The one with the most “Likes” wins! Visit this page often and make sure you vote.

Thank you!

Go Here & Vote!

Lake Sacajawea

Japanese Garden

facebook.com/pages/makelongviewbeautiful

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Personal sales management...in a challenging economic environment

By Chuck Nau Retail Consultant and Sales and Management Trainer Murray & Nau, Inc.

ed geographic or specific customer or client (e.g. a new large regional client) growth? New business or category growth?

In today’s difficult small business environment, whether in retail, as a service provider or a small manufacturer, reaching and selling clients and customers in person, over the phone or online continues to be an ongoing challenge. Coupled with the evolving and changing online and social media, your customer point of sale or sales territory or account list management strategies need to change, too!

No matter the size or scope of your account list or sales territory, the following strategies will serve you well in managing and helping you achieve your revenue goals. These recommendations are based on my experience both as a key manager and assisting clients in meeting the revenue goals and enhancing and maximizing their existing resources (individually and collectively).

But first, let's step back and clarify our definition of a customer point of sale or sales territory or account list. Your account list or sales territory and, in some cases, your customer point of sale should be defined in terms of objectives (...what is to be achieved?); potential (...type, where, from whom, volume); designed, organized, or structured so that results will be achieved (...timeframe and plan of attack); coverage (...will you be able to contact who you need to, to get the business); plus, in the case of a geographic territory, what determines physical size or location of the area to be covered?

But wait, you love to sell and interact with your customers or clients. You would rather sell than manage. So do you sell first, then manage later or manage first in order to sell your customers, clients and accounts?

Ideally, you should manage to sell.

So, let's examine some strategies to help you chart your course to sales success...

• First and foremost, focus your managerial aims. Or put another way, what exactly is it you are trying to manage or achieve? Increased revenue? More product or specific inventory sales? Adding or enhancing online campaigns? Greater client event participation? Expand-

•

Enhance your selling time...by regularly scheduling those activities that allow greater selling time while reducing overall expenses. Remember, the best selling situation is face to face client contact.

•

Realistically rate your accounts. Regularly review your customer, client and account list or sales territory and prioritize each account potential both on a short term (30-60-90 day) and long term (6-12-18 month) basis, and on a more revenue (+), flat revenue (0), or less revenue (-) growth basis. Don't overlook those accounts that are at risk (due to credit limitations, personnel changes, competitive changes or market impacts). Note them and give them the ‘kid glove treatment’ to save or maintain the business.

What additions do you plan to make to your account list or sales territory, in terms of NEW business? Grow your online revenue from BOTH new and existing accounts?

Remember, if you remain stagnant, 15 to 25 percent of your business may go away in a year.

•

Practice time management. Fine tune again and again.

Stop procrastinating and wasting time. Know yourself and understand the value of time, using your most productive time during the day to be with your clients! Don’t allow your e-mail to become a major distraction. Tell your clients and discipline yourself to check-in with your e-mail only at selected times throughout the day…once in the morning and once in the late afternoon!

•

Say NO! Don't allow time to be thoughtlessly given away by you. Good customer service does NOT mean never saying no.

Please see Nau, page 11

10

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Nau, from page 10

“Driving Great Service Home.”

•

Organize your information. How? By developing a pitchbook. A pitchbook ideally is a three ring binder and/ or its electronic equivalent that contains information on your product or service offerings, information on ALL of your business services (e.g. free shipping, warranty, credit or extended payments), your competitive advantages plus any data you need to tell and sell your business’ story. Make sure your information is accessible and presentable...and current.

•

Delegate and use all available resources...Everyone within your business or service or retail operation is part of your sales and marketing team, from top to bottom and bottom to top. Remember, no one can do it all. Keep all your company resources in the selling loop, enhance and use them!

•

Insure your personal and professional growth. Don't overlook or abuse your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs. Take time for you.

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Maintain a positive attitude, don't dwell on past failures or rejections – use them to build on future successes. Network and build professional friendships in your market and adjacent communities. Develop peer relationships with other salespeople and similar businesses throughout the community. Reward yourself by taking care of yourself – have FUN! Keep fine tuning. Learn from others. Look for those opportunities to excel. Keep changing and challenging yourself to take the time to plan and manage so you will achieve selling success. ... and remember, something good is going to happen today, look for it! © Murray & Nau, Inc. Chuck Nau of Murray & Nau, Inc. is a retail consultant and sales and management trainer. He has been a speaker for and conducted advertising and marketing workshops with retailers, chambers of commerce, community marketing groups, and retail organizations throughout North America.

Based in Seattle, Nau 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.

Comments and questions are welcome and may be directed to Chuck via e-mail: murnau@nwlink.com. or at 425-603-0984.

11

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Cowlitz Economic Development Council

Touting Cowlitz County at international aerospace trade show in England

By Ted Sprague President – Cowlitz Economic Development Council

This is the largest aerospace show of the year, spanning five very full 15-hour days. We worked hard, manning the state’s “Choose Washington”

I had the opportunity to travel with Gov. Jay Inslee to the United Kingdom earlier this month as a delegate representing Washington state and Cowlitz County at the Farnborough International Air Show. Gov. Inslee led the trade mission, which included business executives, economic development professionals and government leaders.

I feel we accomplished Gov. Inslee’s purpose for the mission which he described as an opportunity to, “tout our world-class aerospace industry, meet around the clock with businesses throughout the world to explore new business opportunities, secure new orders for Washington companies, encourage investment in the state, and view the latest innovations in aviation and space.”

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booth, walking the floor, making contacts, conducting meetings with potential clients and hosting receptions for delegates from other countries.

I truly felt like I was an ambassador for the state, but with a niche in Cowlitz County. The highlight for me was the chance to interact with commercial, military and private aerospace manufacturers and suppliers and expose them to the benefits of locating in Cowlitz County.

This was a trial run for us. It gave us the chance to dip our toe into the aerospace sector in an attempt to further diversify our economy.

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Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Business After Hours

Grilling Up a Good Time Phil Roger, Bicoastal, and Vern Foster, KLOG, grab a bite hot off the grill of Mike Lemmons, Republic Mortgage, at the Chamber's Mega Mixer Parking Lot Party at the Civic Center Professional Building. Below, Lonnie Knowles, Stewart Title, presents Suzanne Arnits with a raffle prize and Bonnie Woodruff, Cascade Title, Carrie Mackey, Red Canoe, and Terry Woodruff, Cowlitz County Title, catch up on the day's events.

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

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Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Business After Hours

Traveling in Style The vintage trolley provided by Wahkiamkum Trolley was a bonus for hot, tired feet at the end of the day.

Thank You! KeyBank, Stewart Title Brown and Brown Ameriprise Financial Walstead Mertsching Republic Mortgage NWMLS Lower Columbia Sleep Medicine Sarah J. Getman Pacific Northwest Realty Group

Marol Rivers, KeyBank, is front and center for food and festivities.

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Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Lower Columbia College

Student-led construction project contributes to healthy community

By Chris Bailey President – Lower Columbia College In the shadow of the beautiful new Health and Science Building at Lower Columbia College (LCC), another construction project is under way that will also play a significant role in improving the quality of life on campus and in our community.

Thanks to the efforts of LCC students to promote healthier lifestyles for their peers and neighbors, college fitness facilities and instructional areas – initially built in 1954 – are being expanded and upgraded. The renovation of the existing 21,500 square feet Myklebust Gymnasium, along with construction of a new fitness center, will add 12,000 square feet of space to support the current and future instructional needs of the college while bringing the entire facility into Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance.

Project Features

The renovation and addition addresses needs identified by students and staff, including: • A larger and more accessible fitness center to serve expanded enrollment • A larger free weight area • Customized space for dance, yoga and Pilates courses • A rock climbing wall (the only one available in our region) • Space for other health classes and community education courses • New space for community events and the opportunity to incorporate LCC athletic competitions • Elevator access to instruction space on the second floor In the previous facility, LCC athletes, aerobic dance classes, and students working out on fitness equipment had to compete for floor space and locker room areas. With the upgrade campus space will double for sports, health-related classes and activities, and other uses.

16

To date, students have raised a little more than $2 million for the project through a self-imposed fee of $2.50 per credit in tuition and the State Legislature approved $2 million in matching capital funds for the project. The college plans to use a combination of local reserves, future facility fees and donations to meet the remaining expenses.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles LCC students have led the charge in a number of healthrelated initiatives in recent years, including creation of a tobacco-free campus and campus-wide weight loss/fitness activities. They have also provided nutrition education to children in LCC childcare and their parents, and partnered with local farmers to raise awareness of healthy food choices.

As a partner in the Pathways 2020 project, LCC recognizes the importance of health education in building a quality workforce for our community. Research shows that regular exercise contributes to work productivity by increasing alertness and energy, improving mental health and reducing the risk for illness which means fewer sick days.

According to the Pathways 2020 Community Report Card, good health is not just about medical care, but begins at home and in schools, teaching students to select healthy foods and to make time for physical activity. By educating our students about healthy lifestyle habits and providing the opportunity for physical exercise, LCC hopes to influence and improve their lives and those of their families.

The remodel and new construction project is scheduled for completion this fall in time for winter quarter classes and athletic competitions.

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

In the News

Help local students get the year off to a good start by donating school supplies

•

The Family Health Center is holding its second annual School Supply Drive to benefit local public schools. Supplies will be collected from now through August 15, and delivered to districts in time for the 2014-15 school year.

The most needed items are notebook paper, notebooks, No. 2 pencils, ink pens, scissors, crayons, colored pencils, markers, glue sticks, erasers, pencil boxes/pouches, facial tissue and backpacks.

•

at 360-636-3892 for more information) Woodland Clinic, 1251 Lewis River Rd., Suite D, in Woodland (call Seth at 360-225-4310 for more information) WIC/First Steps Clinic, 1717 Olympia Way in Longview (call Shannon at 360-423-7740 for more information)

Lower Columbia College needs host families for fall quarter students

Drop sites are: • Longview Medical Clinic, 1057 12th Ave., in Longview (call Patti at 360-636-3892 for more information) • Kelso Clinic, 300 Oak St., Suite B, in Kelso (call Summer

Lower Columbia College has amazing students arriving from around the world who need a warm, welcoming home. Host families receive a monthly stipend to defray costs, and the lifelong friendship opportunity is priceless.

On the following page is the arrival information for the stu-

Please see News, page 18

EstatE Planning & EldEr law

Attorney Michael A. Claxton

Our estate planning / elder law attorneys provide advice and a variety of estate planning services and issues involving the elderly, including: • Abuse of Vulnerable Adult • Asset Protection • Community Property Agreements • Durable Powers of Attorney • Guardianships/Conservatorships • Healthcare Directives/Living Wills • Medicaid and Long-Term Care Issues • Probate • Tax and Retirement Planning • Wills • Will Contests

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Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

In the News News, from page 17 dents who need immediate housing. All have requested host families: China Arriving August 2 Arriving September 12 or 13 Arriving September 12 or 13 (a returning student who requested new host family for next year.)

Australia Arriving August 22 Please contact Margit Brumbaugh at 360-442-2313 or mbrumbaugh@lowercolumbia.edu for more information or an application.

champions from across America.

To volunteer, or for more information, go to www.longview-

worldseries.com, or refer to the ad on Page 19.

Shredfest provides opportunity for folks to destroy important documents Shredding sensitive documents is one way to reduce the risk of becoming an identity theft victim. A free community shredding event is scheduled for August 22 from 9 a.m. to noon at Heritage Bank, 927 Commerce Ave., Longview.

Shredding will be provided by LeMay Mobile Shredding

August World Series organizers looking for volunteers in variety of areas

Motorcycle Rally Saturday, September 6, 2014

For the sixth time since 1990, Longview and Kelso, are hosting a Babe Ruth Baseball World Series event at David B. Story Field on the campus of Lower Columbia College in the heart of Longview August 20-28 and it will take a host of volunteers to make it happen.

Volunteers are still needed in the following areas: ticket sales, concessions, and host families.

The eight-day, 10-team event features the co-host teams from Longview and Kelso Babe Ruth, along with eight regional

Trusted.

Bike Run Sunday, September 7, 2014 For more information contact: John 360.577.1560 Joyce 360.425.4451

Motorcycle Rally Saturday, September 6, 2014 Bike Run August 15 – September 11 Sunday, September 7, 2014

Since 1982, Cowlitz County Title has been the company the community turns to when buying, selling or refinancing a property.

WilloW Grove Salmon Camp

For more information contact: John 360.577.1560 Joyce 360.425.4451

Whether you need title, escrow or property search information, come in for our exceptional service. Leave with the confidence that your real estate investment is properly insured and protected.

For the first time ever, you can fish and camp on the lower Columbia River at Willow Grove County Park in Longview, WA. The park features a spacious four lane boat ramp, more than 200 parking spaces and a mile of beach in a 65 acre park, 15 minutes from I-5.

Bianca Lemmons Vice President/Manager

1159 14th Avenue, Longview, WA 98632 Phone: 360.423.5330 â– www.cowlitztitle.com

Click here to register or go to: www.willowgrovenw.com

18

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Business Toolbox

Tips for building a stronger business Lead and Manage

By Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Adviser

We have just finished the first half of the year and it’s time to take stock in the performance and health of our business and ourselves. This is not always fun but, it is always necessary. What you ignore or don’t know will hurt you!

Something all business owners have in common is their desire to build and own a strong business. A strong business is one that: • Can withstand the ups and downs of an economic cycle • Can replenish itself through profits • Is an ‘employer of choice’ within the community • Is agile, flexible, and communicates well • Supports the owner's financial and philanthropic requirements Strong businesses are based on a true business opportunity and a sound business model. While each business opportunity is influenced by the market environment; a business model is shaped by the owner. An enlightened way of looking at and defining your business model can be found at www.businessmodelgeneration.com Five important tips to help you build your strong business: 1. Improve the owner’s/leaders’ (you and your management team) ability to lead and manage 2. Focus on customer needs and wants 3. Systematize and standardize processes and procedures 4. Hire and invest in the right people 5. Manage cash wisely

Whether your business consists of one person or many, a clear vision and mission is imperative. They drive goals and objectives that are S.M.A.R.T.: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.

Amid many distractions, goals keep the owner focused and aligned. When an owner effectively engages employees to embrace the vision and mission, the probability of success is high. In fact, the most important things an owner can do are stay focused on what the company does well and help employees do their best work. These concepts are driven home in books like “Good to Great” by Jim Collins and “E-Myth Revisited” by Michael Gerber. Both of these works emphasize the imperative that the business owner must remember to work as diligently ON their business as they do IN their business.

The importance of working both IN and ON one’s business cannot be overstated – all strong businesses are aware of and emphasize this balance.

Be Customer-Driven A customer-driven business is one that is in synch with what customers really want and need – and responds to and anticipates those wants and needs. Most important is what customers and prospective customers perceive to be valuable to them. These can be many things: a fair price, convenience, fast turnaround, quality, etc. The reward for meeting their needs is predictable sales and growth.

However, “customers” include more than just the buying public. They may include investors, shareholders, suppliers, bankers, employees, and others who rely on an owner’s ability to keep his or her promises. A strong business balances the needs of all these “customers.”

How well do you know and understand: A. Who all your customers are?

Please see Petrick, page 21

20

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Petrick, from page 20 B. What they all need/desire from you/your company?

C. How well are you satisfying your varied customers?

D. How well are your competitors satisfying their customers?

Use Systematic, Repeatable Processes and Procedures Customers don't really care how it’s done, they just want their needs met. However, to meet the needs of everyone – especially shareholders/investors – production and delivery of goods and services must be efficient and profitable. The process of creating value to customers is based on a total management system originally used by Toyota and described in “The Machine that Changed the World” by J. Womack, D. Jones and D. Roos.

Use of a total management system eliminates waste, improves productivity, assures quality, and meets or exceeds customer expectations. Better use of resources results in higher profitability and higher profits support growth. An excellent example of applying total management systems to small business is described in “Better Thinking, Better Results: Using the Power of Lean as a Total Business Solution”

by Bob Emiliani.

Hire and Lead Well Most business owners soon learn that building a strong business is tough to do alone. Early on, an external team which may include: a banker, insurance agent, certified public accountant, and attorney might be required. At some point, employees will be needed to manage and execute dayto-day functions as the business grows. The owner needs to assemble and lead people to apply principles and practices systematically and consistently.

The key to establishing a strong team of the right people is hiring well. This means selecting people for their talents and building on their strengths. As an aside: contrary to some business owners’ belief, filling their workforce with people who all look, sound, act, and think alike is NOT usually a wise move. Just as diversification in your product or service offer-

21

ing is smart business; so is diversification of talents, abilities, and ideas is what strong companies do.

Once people have joined your team the next order of business includes investing in their talents, listening to their thoughts, assisting them in their jobs, and rewarding them for work well done. In the book, “First, Break All the Rules”, authors Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman share the results of in-depth interviews revealing how the world's greatest managers use these techniques – this is helpful especially if you have never been led or managed by a great manager.

Manage Cash Flow Every strong business depends on a predictable, consistent cash flow. A profit plan measures true profitability and is the best measure of efficiency. However, a cash budget that predicts and monitors cash flowing into and out of a business is a good measure of sustainability. If an owner can predict and budget cash flow, then he or she can make better decisions on how and when to use cash.

When businesses extend credit to buyers (act like a bank), incoming cash lags behind sales. When sales are made, assets (like inventory or labor) are required to complete the transaction and these assets require cash. Therefore, a lot of cash is going out and not a lot of cash is coming in throughout seasonal or cyclical fluctuations. Since the business owner can't pay bills with negative cash, he or she has to either borrow cash or inject it.

Managing cash with a budget helps the owner predict cash shortages so funds can be arranged (often with a bank loan/ line of credit) to fill the gaps. When collections create excess cash, the short-term loans can be paid back. Even profitable businesses can go bankrupt if they haven't balanced the cash flow cycle.

While many factors contribute to building a strong business, these five deserve special attention. Strong businesses support their local communities and are the foundation upon which the economy grows.

If the challenges described above sound like issues you are experiencing in your business you may want to take action

Please see Petrick, page 22

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Petrick, from page 21 to address them. One of the best first steps could be to attend the next, no fee, Best Business Practices session designed to help you run a more prosperous business.

The next session of the Best Business Practices Series is scheduled for September 4. This session will feature tools and techniques to help you work ON your business instead of just IN your business. To register follow this link: http://wsbdc.org/class-detail?classid=529&sday=0 4&smonth=09&syear=2014 This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, CGBP, SPHR, PMP and Certified Business Adviser with the Washington State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Longview. Jerry provides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment. He can be reached via e-mail jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org

Local Bank Means Local Business Canyonview CyClery

I had a plan to fulfill a childhood dream and start up my own business.

Just when every bank was saying NO, Twin City Bank said yes. They help me to make that dream a reality. I would not be open today if it had not been for the willingness of Twin City Bank and its priority of helping local businesses succeed.

Thank you Twin City Bank.

Mark Plotkin Canyonview Cyclery

729 Vandercook Way Longview, WA 98632 1-800-319-2265 | 360-414-4101 twincitybank.com Mark Plotkin, Owner Canyonview Cyclery

22

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council

Connecting nonprofits to workforce system benefits community

By Julia Maglione Communications Manager – Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council

ment services to get a job •

participate in and benefit from connection with the workforce

Our local nonprofit organizations and social service agencies help the most vulnerable of our community. Often they do this on a limited budget and many provide extra support and services outside of their primary goal. This stretches their budget and takes them away from their core mission.

Some of the services they may provide involve trying to help individuals improve skills or find employment. The Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council (SWWDC) has free services that may help their clients and also help take some of the burden off these organizations by providing the needed employment-related services for adults and youth at no cost through the workforce system.

Among the services are classes on resume writing and interviewing, skills assessments, job counseling and funds for education and on-the-job training, including recent grants of $750,000 that SWWDC received to help individuals who have been out of work for 27 weeks or more.

The SWWDC is hosting a September 16 “Workforce Connections” event for nonprofit organizations and social service agencies that have clients in need of employment-related services. The goal of the event is to increase access to job-related resources for those most in need.

At this free event, attendees will: •

• •

Learn about the SWWDC, WorkSource and partners that provide free employment-related services for adults and youth in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties

Learn how their organization can

system •

Meet other local nonprofit and social service agency representatives

The Workforce Connections event for nonprofit organizations and social service agencies will take place September 16 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Cowlitz PUD Auditorium at 961 12th Ave., in Longview. Parking is limited and attendees are encouraged to carpool and park in the gravel lot on the corner of Commerce Avenue and Delaware Street. Light refreshments will be served.

RSVPs are required by September 5 to Julia Maglione at jmaglione@swwdc.org or 360-567-3176.

The more we can pool our resources and work together to help our most vulnerable members, the larger the impact we can make and the better we can serve our community.

Julia Maglione is communications manager at the SWWDC. She can be reached at jmaglione@swwdc.org or 360-567-3176.

The Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council (SWWDC), a nonprofit organization founded in 2002, is the workforce investment board for Clark, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. SWWDC brings together funding, state agencies, service providers, colleges, economic development and

Find out about available resources, education and training funds

community organizations to provide employment and training

Get tips on how to help their clients access free employ-

www.swwdc.org.

services to businesses, job seekers and youth. Learn more at

23

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Businesses can avoid layoffs with Shared Work

By Chad Pearson Shared Work Marketing Manager – Employment Security Department It can happen to any business. Demand for your product or service slips. Maybe the market goes in the tank. All you know is your business is in a fix, and you’ve got hard decisions to make.

You don’t want to lay off your skilled employees, but what else can you do to cut costs?

The Employment Security Department provides an alternative. It’s called Shared Work.

Under the program, businesses can reduce the hours of permanent employees, who can then collect partial unemploy-

3rd Annual

l l t h A e e Way l g n i J

5k Run/Walk

ment benefits to replace a portion of their lost wages. This translates into immediate payroll savings and prevents the loss of skilled employees.

Plus, to make the program more affordable, the federal government will cover more than 92 percent of Shared-Work benefits through June 2015. That means you can participate virtually for free and there will be practically no effect on your unemployment-insurance tax rate.

Sterling Ramberg, co-owner of The Gear Works, had this to say about Shared Work: “We invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in our employees’ training and couldn’t afford to lose them. Shared Work helped us avoid that.”

The flexibility of the program also makes it attractive. Your business can enroll some or all of your employees. You use it only when needed, and you can vary each employee’s reduction anywhere from 10 to 50 percent per week.

Recent surveys show that Shared Work helps keep skilled workers, reduces payroll costs and improves employee morale. Employers who have used the program consistently recommend it to others.

To learn more, watch our Shared-Work video CLICK HERE, visit www.esd.wa.gov/shared-work or call 800-752-2500.

12-20-14

Maria Frey

Downtown Historic Longview

Independent Beauty Consultant 631 Ogden Rd. Castle Rock, WA 98611 (360) 274-9052 mariafrey2011@gmail.com Se habla español

24

2014 Small Business

BOOT CAMP Friday Mornings ★ Lower Columbia College

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

Six Pack

-

$

100 Member Price

160 Non-Member Price

$

Register Online Today!

Tools You Can Use to Help Your Business Lim

it 25 Cam per p Se ssio n

!

Immediately!!

g Brin r, … up pe Sign ookkee r, b ge r you r mana u se yo spou rge! r u yo cha xtra e o n

Marketing and Sales Six Pack Fri. Sept. 5 Marketing - Behind the scenes, analysis, budgeting and understanding Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray and Nau, Bellevue

Fri. Sept. 26 Sales People - Value, expectations, inspection of those expectations Facilitator: Bill Marcum, Kelso Longview Chamber

Fri. Sept. 12 Marketing - On Stage, Strategies, tactics, implementation Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray and Nau, Bellevue

Fri. Oct. 3

Fri. Sept. 19 Social Media Marketing - What is it really and why do I need it?

Facilitator: Tom May, Mayhem, Inc. Seattle, WA

Fri. Oct. 10 Customer Service - How to answer the phone to working with difficult customers. Facilitator: Chris Bailey, President Lower Columbia College Bring any and all of your employees, this involves the entire business.

BONUS

Boot Camp

NO Charge if YOU have attended at least one Six Pack !

Fri., Oct. 24 Critical Thinking and Problem Solving - Utilize your own think tank to solve Critical issues. Facilitator: Chris Bailey, President Lower Columbia College

360-423-8400

Sales 101 - Bring your sales people any and all.

This session is for them. Facilitator: John McDonaugh, Vancouver Business Journal

Chamber Members Non-Chamber Members

100 per Six Pack

$

or $25 per Camp

160 per Six Pack

$

or $35 per Camp 25 maximum per Camp Session

Register Online Today!

www.kelsolongviewchamber.org

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Ambassador of the Month

Lemiere closes out July with bang as Chamber honoree Nick Lemiere earned the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce's Ambassador of the Month honors for July. Lemiere is an Edward Jones owner and financial adviser. His office is located at 2020 9th Ave., in Longview.

July

He joined the Ambassadors in 2007 hoping to meet new people and help them get settled into the business community. He also volunteers with the Southwest Washington YMCA Board, Pioneer Lions, The Bridge Church, and Community Home Health and Hospice Foundation.

Nick Lemiere Edward Jones

He is married to Tiffanie and has a son Levi. For fun, Lemiere likes to play music, and walk or bike around Lake Sacajawea with his family.

Chamber Ambassadors, known as The Red Coats, are an integral part of the Chamber of Commerce. The Ambassador team is made up of active Chamber volunteers whose responsibilities include meeting and greeting at Chamber events, welcoming new members and assisting at ribbon cuttings and community events. Ambassadors juggle busy professional careers while making time to assist the Chamber at a variety of events year long.

If you would be interested in wearing a red coat and representing the Chamber, contact CEO Bill Marcum at the Chamber office.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Anne O’Connor onthemark associates

Bianca Lemmons Cowlitz County Title Company

Michael Julian Kelso Theater Pub

Chris Bailey Lower Columbia College

Clayton J. Bartness, DC Longview Chiropractic Clinic

Chet Makinster Longview City Council

Jerri Henry, Past President Futcher-Henry CPA Group Joel Hanson, President KLOG/KUKN/The Wave

Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner Bob Crisman Gallery of Diamonds

Michael Claxton Walstead Mertsching

Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council

Lance Welch PeaceHealth

Steve Taylor Kelso City Manager

26

Diane Craft, Vice President Koelsch Senior Communities Linda DiLembo Three Rivers Mall Julie Rinard Community Home Health & Hospice Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Kelso

Longview

Utility rate update

Streetscape worth effort

By Mayor David Futcher

By City of Longview Public Works Engineer Amy Blain

You may have noticed a recent article about a utility rate study done for the City of Kelso. The rate study recommended rates increase an average of about 5 percent per year for the next few years, or to put it in Daily News headline terms, “Massive Rate Hike for Kelso?” Why 5 percent qualifies as massive when 3 percent is basically just a cost-of-living adjustment, I’m not sure, but that’s a question for another day.

The Downtown Streetscape Project is a revitalization plan to strengthen and diversify Longview’s historic downtown business core. The City’s sidewalk business licensing program supports an active café and shopping culture which complements mixed commercial and residential uses downtown, as well as performing arts activities at multiple theatres. But poor lighting, accessibility barriers and deteriorated sidewalks prevent the full realization of a pedestrian friendly main street for commerce, restaurants, art and other community events.

If the city is going to handle their responsibilities for utilities responsibly, they need to plan for future replacements and repairs. Kelso has done that, and taking those costs into account, the folks who study our future cash needs have said we need to increase rates by about 25 percent over five years, or around 5 percent a year.

This project promotes a pedestrian friendly corridor through the use of sidewalk bulb-outs to create small plaza-type gathering spaces. It replaces substandard Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and deteriorated sidewalks to improve accessibility; replaces crosswalks to improve pedestrian safety; adds and upgrades street lighting to create ambience and support longer retail business hours; replaces street trees and landscaping to improve the overall appearance; and adds rain gardens to reduce impervious surfaces and stormwater impacts.

Nobody ever wants utility rates to increase. But we do want the water to come on when we hit the tap, and we surely want the toilet to flush when needed. We expect to be able to take the consistent operation of utilities for granted. Beyond that, we’ve even seen locally the complications that can take place when the water quality is slightly subpar. What was coming out of taps in Longview was always drinkable, but, rightly, didn’t meet the expectations of the customers. Kelso led the state in having the clearest water in 2013, and to guarantee this kind of consistent quality, we need to keep up with system maintenance.

Three blocks of Commerce Avenue will be improved from Washington Way through the Broadway intersection; future improvements are planned to complete two more blocks as additional funding becomes available. A $1.7 million construction contract was awarded to R.C. Northwest Construction, a general contractor from Brush Prairie, Wash., who specializes in commercial and public utility projects. Construction was scheduled to begin in early August and a formal groundbreaking ceremony will take place August 14 to thank Cowlitz County Commissioners, Washington state legislators and Sen. Patty Murray for the significant local, state and federal contributions that made this project possible.

The council hasn’t made a decision on rates yet, but is required to cover the costs of utilities from the rates that are charged. An increase is likely, but with the council having to pay the same bill as any other homeowner, you can be sure any rate increase won’t be any greater than necessary.

27

grand opening saturday, august 2, 2014

ning 2014

grand openin saturday, august 2, 201 celebration begins at 8:30am store opens at 9am

pop-up theatre

am

free movies!

all day every day | all ages

August 9 Free Back to School Model Search

g n i celebration begins at 8:30am m Co on!

August 16 So store opens at 9am Back to School

threeriversmall.com |

threeriversmall.com |

fashion Show

threeriversmall.com |

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Mind Your Own Business (at the Library)

Electronic books hot for summer

By Chris Skaugset Director – Longview Public Library It’s a beautiful summer day as I write this. The sun is shining, the skies are clear, and it’s warm. However, with Summer Reading taking place things are hot at the library (figuratively speaking of course, literally it’s quite comfortable and cool inside). One of the other hot things that you can do at your library is check out e-books and e-audiobooks.

Since late 2010, we have belonged to a consortium of libraries called the Washington Anytime Library and through that group you have access to e-books and e-audiobooks for almost all of your devices whether it’s a smartphone, or a tablet, or an e-book reader such as the Kindle or Nook. Currently you have access to more than 22,000 titles through the Washington Anytime Library that you can check out on your device any time, day or night, and from anyplace you have access to the Internet. The library’s circulation of these items continues to grow rapidly, nearly doubling each year.

For most devices, and we have information about this in the library and online, you need only to download an app called the Overdrive Media Console (which is the company that the consortia contracts with for service), have your library card number (the entire number located on the back of your library card), and a pin number (which should be the last four digits of your phone number) to access this new and growing collection. We have several staff members who have been trained and are happy to help you with your device and getting your first book. We also have classes for the public that are either specific to a device or are general digital “petting zoos” that help prospective device buyers find out which device is right for them.

Another hot item at your library is our new automated Internet sign-in software. Gone are the days of using clipboards and paper to reserve and sign-in to use the library’s eight Internet computers.

Now with a library card it’s simpler than ever to sign in and use a computer or reserve one for future use. If you don’t have a library card you can get a guest pass that allows you single-day access to

the computers as well. You can have up to 90 minutes a day, though the longest time you can sign up for is 60 minutes. You can use the rest of your time at other times during the day when a computer is available. This new software has also automated the printing from the computers.

Library staff members are happy, willing, and available to help everyone navigate the new system as needed. And, in the near future you will be able to print from your own Windows-based devices through the library’s free Wi-Fi. The library does have free Wi-Fi access in the building so if you’re looking for somewhere cool and, perhaps, away from the craziness at the office to work online, don’t forget your library. If you do want to use the Wi-Fi, go to the Information Desk to create your own user name and password that’s good for 30 days.

Finally, on a whole different level of technology is the return of the Shay Locomotive to the library grounds. The structure that will house and protect the train is now complete. In the near future there will be a finished fence, sidewalks, and informational display panels that will tell the story of R.A. Long, the wood products industry, moving lumber from forests to mills, and finally information about our Shay. The project has continued to move forward through the generosity of numerous people throughout the community who have volunteered their time, their money, and their talents to not only restore the Shay to its former glory but to bring it back to the community, making it once again available for the public to see, learn about, and marvel at.

Come visit your library today and find out what you can do here.

29

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Ribbon Cuttings

Beautiful Beginning Maria Frey, Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, was the center of attention at her ribbon cutting July 9

Great Pub-licity Amy Schlect wielded the big scissors with skill during a sun-drenched ribbon cutting for Lexi's Pizza Pub, 1613 Westside Highway, Kelso, July 25.

Cutting Edge Karen Sisson gave the Chamber's new ribbon cutting scissors a try.

30

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Welcome New Members

Chamber membership has its privileges Celebrate new Chamber members with us Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.

* Apple Family Dental – Dr. Julia Gourley * EGT, LLC – Jerry Gibson * Walgreens – Ron Oringer * Community Foundation for Southwest

• Annual Meeting and Banquet • Networking Events • Committee Participation • Business Contacts • Quarterly Membership Meetings • Civic Representation • Monthly Business After Hours

Washington – Huyen Truong

* Avery's Air-Cooled Auto Parts – Linda Hooper * Sportsman's Warehouse – Erik Garcia • Legislative Representation • Issues Tracking and Information

Business Services include marketing for your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data.

• Task Forces • Candidate Forums

• Mailing Labels • Membership Window Decals • Member Referrals • Ribbon Cutting • Web Site Links • Member to Member Discounts • Membership Directory • Tax Deduction • Newsletter • Business Card Display • Use of Chamber Logo

• Legislative Update Breakfast • Demographics Publication

Packages Basic Membership Package – $275 or $26 per month.

Bronze Membership Package – $500 or $46.66 per month.

Silver Membership Package – $1,000 or $86.33 per month.

Gold Membership Package – $2,500 or $211.33 per month.

Platinum Membership Package – $5,000 or $416.66 per month.

Diamond Club Membership Package – $10,000 or $834 per

Representation through action committees, Candidate Forums and up-to-date Action Alerts.

month.

Join today! Call 360-423-8400 31

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

Longview Downtown Partnership

Keep shopping downtown during streetscape construction

By Alice Deitz President – Longview Downtown Partnership

Business Whoop Whoop!

Creekside Café, 1323 Commerce

Longview downtown is getting a makeover! Beginning in August, and finishing up in late November, the Longview Downtown Streetscape is set to transform our Commerce Avenue. The businesses are excited to see the new improvements, but with any streetscape, there comes a worry about how the construction will affect their livelihood.

The Longview Downtown Partnership is working hard to remind folks that just because Commerce Avenue will not be as easily accessible during construction, there are plenty of alternate routes and parking to get to your favorite shops.

Most of the downtown shops are accessible from the rear parking lots located on 12th and 14th avenues.

Ave. Their fresh, green salad has sunflower seeds and beets, which is awesome, but my favorite is their Santa Fe sandwich. It’s such a nice visual to look down Commerce Avenue during the summer and see their outdoor seating packed with people!

It’s important to know that supporting your local businesses, especially in their time of transition, not only helps your fellow business owner, but it helps you as well. Throughout the United States only about 33.6 percent of the revenue from national chain stores is reinvested in the community, which is very low compared to the 64.8 percent return from local businesses.

Avery’s Air-Cooled, LLC

Vintage Volkswagen Parts & Repair

360-425-1119

800-458-5852

1205 Pacific Ave. Kelso, WA 98626 www.AverysAirCooled.com parts@ AverysAirCooled.com

Preserving the Heritage, One Part at a Time

32

Kelso Longview Business Connection

August 2014

PeaceHealth

Connections – important in business and in health Making connections is all part of managing a business successfully. Connections are also a part of managing your health successfully.

At PeaceHealth we’re committed to healthy connections that help you manage your health. In 2013, PeaceHealth Medical Group embarked on a monumental shift in how we manage our medical practice — and your medical record. We’ve rolled out a new electronic health record (EHR) system called Epic that will allow us to streamline and enhance the way we track patient health care.

The most exciting part of PatientConnection is that it will put you in control of your health care – any time day or night.

With PatientConnection, you can:

We’re excited about the EHR’s features and the support it provides to our core mission of promoting personal and community health, relieving pain and suffering, and treating each person in a loving and caring way. We expect that it will help us provide you the best, most advanced care and service now, and well into the future.

What does this mean for you?

For patients, the new system will offer consistency. Any PeaceHealth provider you see – whether your primary care provider or specialist – will be able to access your health information, which means you get the best personalized care, no matter where you are.

•

Message your doctor: The enhanced portal will provide a secure way to message your PeaceHealth doctor with questions or concerns. And all communication will become a part of your medical record.

•

Schedule appointments: Schedule or cancel appointments with your provider.

•

View test results: Test results ordered by your PeaceHealth doctor will be available to view in the portal after your doctor has reviewed them – generally one to seven days.

•

Renew prescriptions: While you will still work with your preferred pharmacy for filling prescriptions, PatientConnection will give you the ability to view your medications and to easily request renewals for prescriptions from your doctor.

•

Pay bills: Pay clinic bills online quickly and easily.

Second, you will have convenience through the newly upgraded PatientConnection portal. This online tool is a free service for PeaceHealth Medical Group patients and will give you access to your personal health information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What will I be able to do in PatientConnection?

Learn more about PatientConnection at www.peacehealth.org and click on the PatientConnection logo.

The new PatientConnection portal has a freshly-enhanced interface that will make it easy to use. You will be able to upload your photo and color code certain areas of the portal and much more. You may also be able to view your dependents’ information.

Here’s to a summer of making connections for your business and your health.

33

Business Connection

August, 2014

NOW Bruce Pollock recently stopped by Chamber Connections to talk about Bicoastal Media's newest radio station, NOW Country 93.5.

Chamber Connections airs from 3 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday on KEDO/1400AM or catch it streamed live at www.threeriversradio.com.

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

Alison Peters Bonnie Woodruff Diane Kenneway Dennis Bird Escrow Officer/LPO Escrow Officer/LPO Escrow Assistant Senior Title Officer alison@cascade-title.com bonnie@cascade-title.com diane@cascade-title.com dennis@cascade-title.com

Lindsey McTimmonds Marketing/Recording recording@cascade-title.com

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

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

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August Business After Hours Tuesday, August 12 5:30 to 7:30 GREAT FOOD & DRINK

Come meet the new general manager Nick Van and enjoy some BIG BREAK style fun golf games, putting contests, chipping contests. Play the par 3 course that night. So bring your sticks or we will have some you can use.

Register at: kelsolongviewchamber.org $15 in advance or $20 at the Tee.