Kelso Longview Chamber Business Connection March 2024

Karen

kBusiness Connection

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Matt Seimears selected president of Lower Columbia College

On Nov. 15, 2023, Dr. Matt Seimears was named the next president of Lower Columbia College (LCC). The selection was made during a board of trustees meeting, where trustees voted unanimously on his appointment.

“We had a wonderful pool of qualified applicants following a national search,” said Liz Cattin, chair of the board. “We believe that Dr. Seimears will be an informed and dynamic leader of the college, an involved member of our community, and an inspiring advocate for the community college mission.”

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LCC, established in 1934 and located in southwest Washington state, is the only institution of higher education serving Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. As an open-access, comprehensive community college, LCC offers two applied bachelor’s degrees, 66 associate degrees, 27 certificates, high school diplomas, English Language Learning, and non-credit continuing education courses. Through its diverse offerings, LCC serves more than 4,000 students a year.

“I’m overjoyed that I was selected as the incoming president. I am excited about working with the campus, the community, the region, and the state,” said Seimears. “Becoming the next president of LCC is the culmination of everything I’ve done and want to do in higher education. I’m looking forward to opportunities, innovation, and advancing partnerships for the greater good of Longview and beyond.”

LCC’s selection process was supported by Academic Search, a Washington D.C.-based firm specializing in higher education. Seimears succeeded Chris Bailey, J.D., who served as LCC’s president for more than 12 years. When he took the helm on Jan. 3, 2024, Seimears became the 13th head of the college through its 90 year history, and the fifth president since LCC joined the Washington community and technical college system in 1967.

Seimears was the first member of his family to go to college. He entered the workforce as a MIG/TIG welder after being told in high school that “college isn’t for you.” His curiosity was piqued after reading about American colleges in a book he purchased at a thrift store for 25

For more LCC President, see page 3

LCC Rose Center for the Performing Arts

Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Jason Gentemann, President Foster Farms

Sean Kiffe, President Elect NORPAC

Pam Whittle, Vice President Realty One Group Pacifica

Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank

Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching

Marlene Johanson, Past President Heritage Bank

Rich Coleman Bicoastal Media

Diane Craft Koelsch Communities

Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD

Kristin Gaines Alcoa

Kelly Godden Specialty Rents

Rich Gushman Gibbs & Olson

Keenan Harvey City Council, Kelso

Sabrina Kochprapha

United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties

Jason Meunier

Fibre Federal Credit Union

Cherelle Montanye St. John/PeaceHealth

John Paul

KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The Blitz

Ted Sprague

Cowlitz Economic Development Council

MaryAlice Wallis City of Longview Mayor

Dennis Weber

Cowlitz County Commissioner

LCC President from page 1

cents, and he enrolled at Butler Community College. After transferring to Pittsburg State University, he nearly had to withdraw due to a lack of funds. With the help of a university administrator, he landed a job for $35 a week that kept him afloat. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree and began teaching English Language Learning to elementary and middle school students. He also coached high school wrestling and university rugby teams.

Continuing his education, Seimears earned his master’s degree from Wichita State University, a second bachelor’s degree from Newman University, and a Ph.D. from Kansas State University. He taught as an adjunct at Cowley Community College for six years, a GED instructor for three years, and worked at Emporia State University for 15 years as an instructor/ academic adviser, professor, associate department chair, and department chair. He became the Dean of the College of Education at Eastern Oregon University (EOU) in 2019 and was appointed Interim Provost at EOU in 2022.

“I’m overjoyed that I was selected as the incoming president. I am excited about working with the campus, the community, the region, and the state. Becoming the next president of LCC is the culmination of everything I’ve done and want to do in higher education. I’m looking forward to opportunities, innovation, and advancing partnerships for the greater good of Longview and beyond.”

–Matt Seimears

Seimears has considerable experience with grants and fundraising, enrollment and academic initiatives including leading EOU’s efforts to become the Pacific Northwest Hub for the Rural Schools Collaborative, and has published a number of textbooks and scholarly articles. He has a new e-book coming out soon about teaching science to English Language Learners.

Cowlitz Economic Development Council

Ted Sprague President

Recruitment versus retention

In the contemporary landscape of business, the debate between recruiting new companies and retaining existing ones has become increasingly significant. Both strategies possess unique advantages and challenges, each catering to distinct needs and objectives. At the Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC) we take a balanced approach that integrates elements of both recruitment and retention.

Recruiting new companies offers numerous benefits, chief among them being the infusion of fresh ideas, capital investment, jobs, and resources into the business ecosystem. New companies bring innovation and dynamism, challenging established norms and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within industries. In addition, recruiting new companies can stimulate economic growth by expanding market boundaries and creating employment opportunities in new fields.

Recruiting new companies can help diversify our economy and mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a limited number of companies in certain sectors.

The pursuit of new companies is not without its challenges. Recruiting new companies entails significant time, uncertainty of

permitting, effort, and financial investment.

Retaining existing companies is equally crucial for long-term sustainability and economic consistency. Established relationships with loyal partners and clients foster trust, stability, and predictability within the business ecosystem. By nurturing these relationships, organizations can cultivate a sense of mutual understanding, commitment, and shared values, laying the foundation for enduring partnerships.

If retention is the main driver, it can create a focus that can impede innovation and stifle growth opportunities. Economies risk stagnation and lack of progress if they become too reliant on existing businesses and fail to adapt to evolving market dynamics and trends.

The argument between recruiting new companies and retaining existing ones underscores the nuanced nature of strategic decisionmaking in economic development. While each approach offers distinct advantages and challenges, a holistic perspective that utilizes elements of both recruitment and retention is crucial for fostering sustainable growth, resilience, and competitive advantage in an increasingly dynamic and interconnected global marketplace.

Carson Winter Communications and Outreach Coordinator

5 ways WorkSource can help job seekers in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties

Looking for work? Read this first.

Finding the right job isn’t always easy. If you haven’t job hunted in a while, you might be out of practice. Sometimes, we need a little help to give our employment journey a happy ever after.

WorkSource is an organization funded by federal and state grants to help people get to work. If you’re in Cowlitz or Wahkiakum county, your local WorkSource center is located in Kelso at 305 S. Pacific Ave., Suite 101. Here, you can get connected to many helpful services that may prove to be gamechangers in your job search.

If you’re interested in any of these services, call or visit the WorkSource center in Kelso!

5. Get help with your resume

These days, so much of getting the big job offer hinges on a great resume. But what makes a resume stand above the rest?

If you’re staring at a blank page, wondering about fonts, colors, sizing, and content – WorkSource should be your next stop. Our Employment Specialists help hundreds of people with their resumes every day so that they can stay competitive in the workforce.

Best of all, this service is absolutely free to anyone. Contact WorkSource now to find out how to take your resume to the next level.

4. Use our resource room

There are many barriers to finding work, but computer usage shouldn’t be one of them. That’s why your local WorkSource has a free-to-use resource room to work on job seeking activities.

At WorkSource, you can apply for jobs, work on your resume, or search for opportunities. If you need assistance, our resource rooms are always staffed with an Employment Specialist who can help you find what you need.

We also have printing, faxing, and wi-fi available to our job seekers. If you feel like computer use is a barrier to your employment, visit your local WorkSource!

3. Attend a free workshop

The best job applicants have the attitude of a lifelong learner. In the workforce, you need to be ready to adapt, learn, and thrive. WorkSource helps with this by offering free Essential Skills workshops. There are no eligibility requirements to take part in these free workshops. They’re open to anyone who wants to learn!

Our Essential Skills workshops cover topics such as:

• Effective Teamwork

• Workforce Communication

• Resumes and Cover Letters

• Resolving Conflict at Work

• And many more!

To find a full list of available workshops, click here!

2.

Get connected with support services

WorkSource is all about removing barriers that keep people from employment. That’s why we offer support services when we can. While these supports do have eligibility requirements, many of those enrolled in our programs qualify.

WorkSource support services can help people with work clothing, transportation, childcare, and more! The best way to learn more about what WorkSource can offer you is by making an appointment to speak with an Employment Specialist.

Ready to make the jump and find out how WorkSource can help?

Call 360-577-2250 to make an appointment with an Employment Specialist today!

1. Have WorkSource pay for your training

The average American changes careers 5-7 times in a lifetime. There can be many reasons why someone would be looking to transition – pay, work-life balance, company culture – but change isn’t easy. Moving into an entirely new industry can be an overwhelming, not to mention expensive, undertaking.

Luckily, WorkSource can help.

Individuals interested in a high-demand career may be eligible for WorkSource to pay part or all of their job training or tuition.

Looking for your first step? Attend an Employment and Training Orientation online or in-person at WorkSource Cowlitz/Wahkiakum. Click here to search and register for an orientation!

WorkSource Cowlitz/Wahkiakum is located at 305 S. Pacific Ave., Kelso. Office hours are Monday through Friday (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) for virtual and in-person services. The center is right across the street from the Kelso Theater and next door to the Kelso Police Station.

WorkSource is a network of nonprofits, community-based organizations, local and state agencies working in partnership to provide an array of employment and training services to job seekers and businesses in Washington state. WorkSource is funded through the local workforce development board, Workforce Southwest Washington. For information, visit www.WorkSourceWA.com

Carson Winter is the communications and outreach coordinator at WorkSource. Reach him at carson.winter@esd.wa.gov or 360-7354962.

Longview Downtowners

Josh Carter President

Hitting refresh: New focus areas, logo, summer events and passion for downtown

The Longview Downtowners are hitting the refresh button and we’re pumped to share our plans with you.

Here’s the lowdown:

• We’re reorganizing our team to focus on four key areas: making our downtown beautiful and sustainable, supporting thriving businesses, spreading the word about all the downtown awesomeness, and keeping things running smoothly with top-notch events and marketing.

• We’re on the hunt for a killer new logo that reflects our fresh perspective. Think you have the design chops? Submit your creation and help us shape our visual identity! Submit your logo idea by March 15 to josh@carterventuresolutions.com

• Get ready to mark your calendars! We’re planning a

summer full of events that will transform downtown into a vibrant hub for the whole community. Tacos and Tequila and the Solstice Festival are happening in downtown Longview on June 21 and 22. Contact us for more information about both.

• Want to get involved? We’re looking for passionate folks to lead each of our four focus areas. If you’re brimming with ideas and love all things Longview, we want you on the team!

This is more than just a makeover; it’s about building a downtown that reflects the heart and soul of Longview. Stay tuned for more details on how you can contribute, and let’s make this summer one for the books

Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Adviser

Navigating new rules and income levels for exempt employees in Washington state

As a small business owner in Washington state, staying abreast of evolving labor regulations is paramount to ensuring compliance and fostering a thriving workplace. Recently, the landscape surrounding exempt employees has seen significant changes, particularly in terms of income thresholds and classification criteria. Let’s delve into these updates and explore how they might impact your business operations.

The graphic to the right helps explain the changes:

1.Understanding Exempt Employee Classification:

Salary threshold implementation schedule

Salary thresholds for overtime exempt workers are a multiplier of state minimum wage for a 40-hour workweek

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$1,302.40/week ($67,724.80 a year)

$1,302.40 ($67,724.80) $1,504.80* ($78,249.60) $1,538.10* ($79,981.20) $1,743.00* ($90,636.00) $1,780.00* ($92,560.00)

Note 1: The asterisks on the salary thresholds after 2024 are projections based on forecasted changes in the Consumer Price Index. These projections have been updated from previous versions.

Note 2: This table does not apply to computer professionals paid by the hour who have higher minimum wage multipliers.

• Exempt employees are those not entitled to minimum wage and overtime protections under state and federal law. These individuals typically hold executive, administrative, professional, or outside sales positions and are compensated on a salary basis.

• It’s crucial to understand that merely paying an employee a salary does not automatically qualify them as exempt. Specific criteria outlined by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) must be met to classify an employee as exempt.

2.New Income Thresholds for Exempt Status:

• In line with efforts to ensure fair compensation practices, Washington state periodically reviews and adjusts income thresholds for exempt status. The most recent update has raised these thresholds, affecting the classification of certain employees.

• As of Jan. 1, the minimum salary threshold for exempt status in Washington state is $67,724.80 per year. This

Upon request, foreign language support and formats for persons with disabilities are available. Call 1-800-547-8367. TDD users, call 711. L&I is an equal opportunity employer. PUBLICATION F700-207-000 [10-2023]

means that employees must earn at least this amount annually to potentially qualify as exempt, provided they also meet other criteria outlined by the L&I.

3.Impact on Small Businesses:

• The adjustment in income thresholds may necessitate a review of your current workforce to ensure compliance. It’s essential to assess whether employees classified as exempt still meet the updated criteria, particularly concerning salary levels.

• Small businesses should also consider the financial implications of potential reclassification. If employees no longer qualify as exempt, they may become eligible for overtime pay, which could impact budgeting and staffing decisions.

4.Navigating Compliance:

• To navigate these changes effectively, small business

For more Petrick, see page 11

Wednesdays,

owners should take proactive steps to review employee classifications and salary structures. Conducting an audit of your workforce in collaboration with legal or human resources professionals can help identify areas of concern and ensure alignment with current regulations.

• Additionally, staying informed about updates from the L&I and other relevant regulatory bodies is crucial. Subscribing to newsletters, attending workshops, or consulting with industry associations can provide valuable insights and guidance.

5. Conclusion:

• Adapting to new rules and income levels for exempt employees is an integral part of running a successful business in Washington state. By staying informed, conducting regular assessments, and seeking expert guidance when needed, small business owners can navigate these changes effectively while maintaining compliance and fostering a positive work environment.

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, ongoing diligence and proactive measures will be key to ensuring your business remains compliant and well-positioned for success. The Small Business Development Center stands ready to assist you as you grow and develop your successful business.

This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, and certified business adviser with the Washington State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Jerry provides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment. He can be reached via email jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org

Kelso School District

Mary Beth Tack Superintendent

Coweeman students state winners in Samsung STEM competition

Coweeman Middle School has been named a state winner in the 14th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition. Eighth graders Mackenzie Lee, Claire Cheslock, Sequoia Lamperth, and Adison Mean secured this spot with their project of creating a generator that can harness the kinetic energy of water to power small devices like phones and flashlights in the event of an outage. This team progressed from being one of 300 state finalists to one of 50 state winners.

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a national competition designed to empower students in grades 6-12 to leverage the power of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) to create innovative solutions addressing critical issues in their local communities. The competition empowers public middle and high school students to catalyze change by applying problem-based learning principles, environmental stewardship, and entrepreneurship to address some of society’s most pressing challenges.

While the girls are excited about this great achievement and nervous for the next round of judging, they are meeting every challenge head-on and asking for guidance when needed. Taking a community-minded approach, the team has created a partnership with Cowlitz County Emergency Management to look at the application of their project.

As they work on creating a prototype, they are also updating their progress on social media and preparing to make a pitch video of their STEM project. From the 50 state winners, 10 national finalists will be announced on or about March 26.

All of us in Kelso are proud not only of the innovative solution these four young ladies are developing, but also their willingness to try new and challenging things and to risk failure in their attempt to find solutions. Their initiative, courage, and pursuit of their dreams is an inspiration.

#KelsoStrong

Nancy Morgan, past owner, and Richelle Hornung, owner, Main Event Party Store and More

Richard Coleman, new manager BiCoastal Media

City of Kelso Mayor Veryl Anderson

Look Who Joined in February

Cowlitz Junk Removal

Cameron Parsons

360-355-7884

Cowlitzjunkremoval@outlook.com

Sunbelt Rentals

Jacob Nichols

1238 Baltimore Street, Longview, WA 98632

360-218-9390

Jacob.nichols@sunbeltrentals.com

Vancouver Granite Works Inc

Joey Fuerstenberg

900 Ocean Beach Highway, Ste. C, Longview, WA 98632

360-694-1832

info@vancouvergranite.com

Jae Mac Menswear

Charlene Braack

1309 Hudson Street, Longview, WA 98632

360-431-6292

charlene@jaemacmens.com

Main Event Party Store & More

Richelle Hornung

3202 Ocean Beach Highway No. 154, Longview, WA 98632

360-749-2631

Richellepartystoreandmore@yahoo.com

ZenBusiness

Sallie Clark

5511 Parkcrest Drive, Ste 103, Austin, TX 78731

512-765-4985

outreach@zenbusiness.com

Commercial and Residential

Our local painting professionals will show up at the scheduled time and provide you with a detailed price estimate for your project.

Schedule a Free Estimate Today! 360-489-3446

fivestarpainting.com/longview-centralia-wa/

New Members

Add your business to our growing membership Call 360-423-8400 Today!

Membership packages to fit your needs Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.

•Annual Meeting and Banquet

•Networking Events

•Committee Participation

•Business Contacts

•Quarterly Membership Meetings

•Civic Representation

•Monthly Business After Hours

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

•Mailing Labels

•Membership Window Decals

•Member Referrals

•Ribbon Cutting

•Website Links

•Member to Member Discounts

•Membership Directory

•Tax Deduction

•Newsletter

•Business Card Display

•Use of Chamber Logo

Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.

•Legislative Representation

•Issues Tracking and Information

•Task Forces

•Candidate Forums

•Legislative Update Breakfast

•Demographics Publication

Membership Packages

Diamond Platinum

Gold Silver

Bronze Standard Nonprofit

Business and Community Association

Lindsey Cope President

Shamrock Shuffle: Kelso's premier adult Easter egg hunt fundraiser

Get ready to kick off your shoes, don your lucky green attire, and channel your inner leprechaun because Kelso’s all-new Shamrock Shuffle, a 21 and older, adult Easter egg hunt, is about to take Tam O’Shanter Park by storm March 16! Prepare for an adventure filled with laughter, thrills, and a touch of friendly competition as participants embark on a quest to discover hidden treasures nestled within 1,500 vibrantcolored, plastic eggs.

But hold onto your hats because this isn’t your grandma’s egg hunt – far from it! Each egg is bursting with surprises, guaranteed to thrill every seeker – from finding a cool buck, or scoring a ticket for prizes valued from $1 to a whopping $500 – all sponsored by our incredible supporters. Picture snagging anything from a house cleaning courtesy White’s Cleaning

Reporting an outage is in the palm of your hand

Company, a cash windfall, gift card or an unopened bottle of your favorite libation – talk about a jackpot!

Now, you might wonder, what’s all this shuffling about? Well, not only is the Shamrock Shuffle an escapade to share with friends and family, but it’s a golden opportunity to give back to our beloved community. With proceeds earmarked for purchasing and planting 20 new planters in downtown Kelso and relocating 33 more in West Kelso, we’re not just having a blast – we’re planting the seeds for a beautiful future.

And speaking of luck, we’ve been showered with it thanks to our amazing sponsors and partners! From the City of Kelso to local businesses like Fiesta Bonita and The Station Pub and Grub, their generosity knows no bounds. But hey, we’re always looking for more lucky charms to join our cause – if you’re feeling the spirit, we'd love to welcome you aboard.

So, how do you snag a ticket to this epic adventure? Easy! Head over to www.letsgokelso.com and secure your spot. Base tickets start at $25 and come with a poncho for poor weather and a deluxe “I Got TOO Lucky” kit, which includes pain relievers and hydration to keep you going strong. Feeling extra lucky? Opt for the Very Important Leprechaun ticket for $35 that has the perks of the base ticket and scores a head start and more goodies. And, don’t forget to deck yourself out in style with our “Official Participant of Shenanigans and Malarkey” hoodies – available in sizes S to 3XL.

So mark those calendars, rally your crew, and snag your tickets before they vanish like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Whether you’re a seasoned egg-hunting veteran or a newbie, there’s no better way to ring in the season and support our community than with a day of laughter, camaraderie, and surprises. See you there, fellow shamrock seekers!

And as we set our sights on the bright future of Kelso, let’s not forget the pivotal role organizations like the Kelso Business and Community Association play in shaping our community’s destiny. Join hands with us, share your ideas, and be a part of the transformative journey toward a more vibrant Kelso. Visit www.letsgokelso.com or check out our Facebook page at www. facebook.com/LetsGoKelso for updates on meetings, events, and more – because together, we’re unstoppable.

Kelso

Cowllitz County Commissioners

Richard Dahl County Commissioner, District 3

Update on Commissioners commitment to several long-term county projects

Ispent some time recently in Washington D.C. visiting with our senators and representative, plus the Army Corps of Engineers and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). No information here will be new, or likely unknown by most, but demonstrates our ongoing commitment to addressing a few of the long-term issues we face as a county.

1. Continuing sediment issues from Mount St. Helens. We had an incredible natural event happen over 40 years ago that brings us unique notoriety, but also leaves us with unique issues. I recall watching the eruption from Vancouver, Wash., never believing I would be dealing with the effects almost 44 years later. The issue is the continual, massive amount of sediment migrating down the Toutle River, to the Cowlitz River, to the Columbia River. This continual movement of sediment creates flood hazards and erosion issues as the channel of the river migrates due to sediment buildup. Fortunately, our elected officials understand the issues we deal with,

and support work the Army Corps deems necessary to mitigate the above. It will be important to keep those lines of communication open for many years to come.

2. The Lewis and Clark bridge is nearing its 100-year anniversary. It is an outstanding landmark and engineering feat considering the technology available in the 1920s. However, it was designed when commercial vehicles were 40,000 pounds, not the 80,000 to 100,000 pounds we see today. Additionally, I don’t believe they could have anticipated the volume of commercial traffic using this bridge today. It is one of the busiest commercial intersections in the state of Washington, at one point ranked as the second busiest commercial intersection. Bridge replacement is a long process, a decade and likely longer, at least. Plus, we compete with several bridges in the same age arena along the Columbia River from Hood

For more County Commissioners, see page 19

Devoted to your care

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce would like to THANK the following loyal members for renewing their partnership with us this month.

Alliant Insurance

Animal Health Services, Inc, PS

Baker Lumber Company, Inc

Behrends Body Shop, Inc

Brusco Tug and Barge, Inc

Dick Hannah Toyota

Global Images Graphic Design & Marketing

Green Hills Crematory –Cascade NW Funeral

Hilander Dental Kay Green

Lower Columbia CAP

Noelle A. McLean, Attorney at Law

Northwest Motor Service

Rotary Club of Kelso United Finance

William (BJ) R Boatsman, CPA

Winters Anchor Point LLC

River, Ore., to Longview so ensuring this bridge stays on the radar, and our contingent in Washington D.C. understand the economic impacts of bridge failure to Cowlitz County and surrounding communities is vitally important.

3.We have a Hall of Justice constructed in the mid 1970s that is in major need of repair or replacement. In 2023 we spent nearly $1 million to provide auxiliary cooling, along with related repairs. You may recall seeing the big units along the road next to the Hall of Justice. Systems are failing, and the design is antiquated. Correcting these issues is a major expense with the steel and concrete construction. The top floor is the old jail if you recall, and not usable without major renovation. You may also recall it housed an officer shooting range, which is no longer feasible.

The cost of major rehabilitation or replacement would be a huge burden on local resources. In fact, I am not sure we would have the capability to incur this type of burden. Because the Hall of Justice is in a community with a population under 15,000, we became aware the USDA had programs that could be of help in either rehabilitation, construction, or both. We opened that conversation with the USDA in Washington D.C., and will continue working with them to see if we can arrive at an affordable solution.

Like I mentioned at the beginning, these topics may not be new to anyone, but an update to show our commitment to continually working the issues I felt was warranted

County Commissioners from page

Business After Hours

Host: Performance

Occupational Health Services

What wasn't to love about celebrating Business After Hours with our host Performance Occupational Health Services in February? We appreciate the time and thought that went into a great Valentinethemed event filled with gifts, food, and friends.

WAVE award deadline nears: help spread the word to CTE students

Washington Workforce Development News /Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board

The Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE) scholarship application is open for 2024—but the deadline to apply is coming soon. The award recognizes high-performing career and technical education (CTE) students at both the high school and community and technical college level. The award covers up to two years of tuition, according to the tuition charged by the institution students will attend— with minimum awards set at $3,850 per year, or $7,700 over two years, although amounts may be higher or lower depending on the institution. Note: A proviso in both the governor’s and legislative budgets may raise the fund pool and scholarship amounts.

WAVE is administered by the Workforce Board in collaboration with the Washington Student Achievement Council, which disburses funds. The application deadline is March 10. See the Workforce Board’s WAVE page for details: https://wtb.wa.gov/ wave/

Join Us for Legislative Briefings

Beginning at 7am, each Monday throughout the Legislative session.

Each week our legislators from the 19th and 20th districts present their priorities, positions and bills that could affect our region. Dave Mastin, vice president, Association of Washington Business, is also in attendance weekly with information about bills and possible bills being introduced and how they may positively or negatively impact business.

Join Us via Zoom... https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86395310994?pwd=L2

JWWjEvZGJpQnpsbGFjb3Bx TkFVZz09

Meeting ID: 863 9531 0994

Passcode: 48504

Includes: 2 cleanings per year, 2 annual exams and x-rays for $350 - A $1200 value Plus, 20% off all services including crowns and implants.

Ribbon Cuttings

Welcome New Members

Thank you to these Ambassadors who participated in ribbon cutting celebrations during February!

Josh Carter

Carter Venture Solutions

Peter Clarke ANC Movers

Diane Craft

Koelsch Communities

James Hoyt Heritage Bank

Elisha Jolma

Sho'me Real Estate

Kelly Godden

Specialty Rents and Events

Shylah Tapani Axecutioner

Betsy Wyatt RE/MAX Premier Group

TCB Entertainment

Daava Mills Consulting

Mortgage Consultants pictured left to right:

BRANDON NICKEL, Loan Officer NMLS #2042243, (971)

DILLINGER, Loan Officer NMLS #1576918,

BRITTANY HOWELLS, Loan Officer NMLS #1669059,