Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Business Connection July 2024 by Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce

Business Connection

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Bonnie Delaney CEO

Embracing Change: Opportunities Ahead

Change is an inevitable part of life, bringing both challenges and opportunities. Some changes we initiate and other change we react to. While it can be unsettling, change often leads to new experiences, perspectives, and skills that enrich our personal and professional lives. It pushes us out of our comfort zone, encouraging us to explore uncharted territories and discover our true potential.

As the Chamber works on embracing this new era of change, we would like to announce an opportunity for a dynamic individual to join our team as a Project/Events Manager.

Job Description: Project/Events Manager

Position Title: Project/Events Manager

Location: Kelso, WA – in office position

Employment Type: Full-time

Reports To: CEO

Salary: Base $60,000-$65,000 + bonus

About Us: The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce is the voice for Cowlitz County businesses, fostering a successful economic environment for our members. We pride ourselves on our dynamic team and dedication to excellence and continuous improvement.

Position Summary: The Project/Events Manager will plan, execute, and close projects/events within scope, on time, and within budget, ensuring alignment with the Chamber’s strategic objectives. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and a proven track record in project/ event management are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

Once again, the Chamber's annual Golf Classic was a huge hit! See photos on pages 4-5

Project/Event Planning and Initiation:

• Define project/event scope, objectives, and deliverables.

• Develop detailed project plans with timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.

• Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Project/Event Execution and Monitoring:

• Lead project/event committees.

• Monitor progress, adjusting plans to meet objectives.

• Manage budgets, tracking expenses to ensure financial control.

• Conduct regular status meetings with committees and stakeholders.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders.

• Provide regular updates, addressing any issues or changes promptly.

• Ensure effective communication throughout the project/ event lifecycle.

Quality Assurance:

• Ensure all deliverables meet quality standards.

• Conduct evaluations and assessments of results.

• Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain comprehensive documentation, including plans, reports, and records.

• Prepare and present reports and presentations to senior management.

• Ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• 5+ years of project/events planning and execution experience.

• Experience in sponsorship and program sales.

• Experience with committee management.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; work experience considered.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong spreadsheet and budgeting skills.

• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.

• Proficiency in Monday.com project software.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

• Analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.

• Monthly insurance stipend.

• Simple IRA with company match.

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities.

• Collaborative and supportive work environment.

How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to resume@kelsolongviewchamber.org with the subject line “Project/Event Manager Application – Your Name”.

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

As we look forward to new beginnings, we welcome the challenges of change, confident that they bring opportunities for growth and success. Join us in making a positive impact on our community!

SPENCER CREEK BUSINESS

• ZONED FOR MIXED USE

Large land site perfect for lodging/hospitality, retail, etc.

• CONVENIENTLY LOCATED OFF I-5

Just 30 minutes from PDX & the amenities of Portland

• 45 ACRES OF PRIME, SHOVEL-READY LAND

Environmental permits & road improvements in place

• COMPETITIVE UTILITY RATES + INCENTIVES

Designed to promote growth & ensure your succes

LOOKING FOR A BUSINESS-FRIENDLY PLACE TO GROW? KALAMA RIVER INDUSTRIAL PARK

• LOCATED OFF I-5

• FLEXIBLE 50K SQ. FT. WAREHOUSE + 1,750 SQ. FT. OFFICE SUITE

Chamber

of Commerce Board of Directors

Jason Gentemann, President Foster Farms

Sean Kiffe, President Elect NORPAC

Pam Whittle, Vice President Realty One Group Pacifica

Jason Meunier, Treasurer Fibre Federal Credit Union

Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching

Marlene Johanson, Past President Heritage Bank

Rich Coleman Bicoastal Media

Diane Craft Koelsch Communities

Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD

Michelle Domenico St. John/PeaceHealth

Bill Fogerty Twin City Bank

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

John Paul

KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The Blitz

Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council

MaryAlice Wallis City of Longview

Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner

It's a Winner

Annual Golf Tournament: Fun for All

The annual Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic returned to the Longview Country Club on June 17. Even with a few moments of sprinkles it was a fun filled day of laughter, camaraderie, friendly competition and overall, a great day out on the course.

The highlight of the event was the awards and dinner ceremony at the end of the day. There is some ongoing discussion about if the winners were really the winners or just the most creative with their score cards!

A special shout out to our sponsors who made the event possible, all that donated raffle prizes and of course the committee, Chamber staff and volunteers who did so much work to bring it all together.

– Bonnie Delaney, CEO , Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Lloyd Smith Photography

CALENDAR

July

4 Independence Day

Chamber Office closed

9 Business After Hours

American Workforce Group

5pm, 1145 14th Ave, Longview 11 Chamber Ambassdors

7:30am, Canterbury Park

19 Kelso Longview Chamber Island Bingo

5:30pm, AWPPW Hall, 724 15th Ave, Longview

23 Ribbon Cutting

11:30am, Rollins Utility Location, Chamber Office

Your Chamber Connection Radio Show

Wednesdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 6pm

KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM

LOOKING AHEAD

August

13 Business After Hours

JoJo + Coco and JaeMac Menswear

5pm, 1309 Hudson St, Longview

22 Quarterly Membership Luncheon

The Struggle is Real: Work-Life-Harmony

11:30am, Kelso Longview Elks

900 Ash St, Kelso

Your Chamber Connection Radio Show

Wednesdays, August 7, 14, 21 and 28, 6pm

KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM

For a complete list of Chamber and Community events, check out our website.

Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Advisor

Navigating the Challenges of Small Business Ownership: Strategies for Success

As a business advisor with years of experience helping small businesses thrive, I’ve seen firsthand the myriad challenges small business owners face. Among the most pressing issues today are rising costs, changing market dynamics, and the need to adapt to technological advancements. Addressing these challenges head-on can pave the way for sustained growth and success. Here are some strategies to help you navigate these turbulent waters.

1. Manage Your Finances Wisely

One of the most critical aspects of running a successful small business is effective financial management. Rising costs, including rent, utilities, and supplies, can quickly erode profits. To combat this, regularly review your expenses and identify areas where you can cut costs without compromising quality. Utilize accounting software to track your financials meticulously and consider consulting with an advisor to optimize your budgeting and investment strategies. Make sure you know and understand how money flows in and out of your business. Virtually all industries have financial ratios/metrics that, like health vital signs, give you a quick sense of the health and wellbeing of your firm.

2. Embrace Digital Transformation

In today’s digital age, leveraging technology is no longer optional; it’s essential. Small businesses must embrace digital tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and stay competitive. Start by establishing a robust online presence. Ensure your website is user-friendly and optimized for search engines. Engage with customers on social media platforms and consider implementing e-commerce solutions if you haven't already. Additionally, explore software solutions that can automate routine tasks such as invoicing, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM). These tools not only save time but also improve accuracy and efficiency. More of these tools are becoming available every day; many at low or no cost and often designed to address the unique aspect of your industry.

3. Focus on Customer Relationships

Building and maintaining strong customer relationships is the cornerstone of a successful small business. Personalize your interactions and provide exceptional customer service to foster loyalty. Collect and analyze customer feedback to understand their needs and preferences better. Implement a CRM system to manage customer interactions and ensure follow-ups are timely

and effective.

Offer loyalty programs or special promotions to reward repeat customers and encourage referrals. Remember, word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly powerful, especially in local communities. In general, it is almost ALWAYS easier and more profitable to increase your sales with existing customers than to acquire new/ replacement customers.

4. Adapt to Market Changes

The market landscape is constantly evolving, and small businesses must be agile to stay ahead. Keep an eye on industry trends and be ready to pivot your business model if necessary. This might involve diversifying your product or service offerings, exploring new markets, or adopting innovative marketing strategies. Keep in mind that one of the advantages small businesses have over large firms is their ability to change/adapt/ take advantage of changing opportunities.

Networking with other business owners and participating in local chamber of commerce events can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. These connections can help you stay informed about local market conditions and potential growth opportunities.

5. Invest in Your Team

Your employees are your greatest asset. Investing in their development and wellbeing can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction. Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to keep your team skilled and motivated. Foster a positive work environment where employees feel valued and engaged.

Consider offering flexible working arrangements to improve life/ work balance, which can enhance employee loyalty and reduce turnover.

While the challenges facing small business owners today are significant, they are not insurmountable. By managing your finances wisely, embracing digital transformation, focusing on customer relationships, adapting to market changes, and investing in your team, you can build a resilient and thriving business.

This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, and Certified Business Advisor with the Washington State University (WSU) 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

Cowlitz Economic Development Council

Ted Sprague President

Job Creation: CEDC's Top Priority

The Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC) has several goals including facilitating job creation through recruitment, retention and expansion, assisting with permitting and capital investment and a wide variety of quality of place issues. The number one goal, above all others, is job creation. Having a job is fundamental for individuals and society, jobs serve as a cornerstone for economic stability, personal development, and societal progress. The importance of having a job extends beyond the obvious financial benefits, jobs influence all facets of our lives and sense of worth.

Obviously, employment provides financial security and independence. A steady income enables individuals to meet their basic needs such as food, housing, healthcare, and education. This financial stability reduces stress and enhances the overall quality of life. In turn, this stability fosters a sense of independence and self-sufficiency, empowering individuals to

make choices and plan.

Additionally, jobs contribute significantly to personal development. Employment often offers opportunities for learning and skill development, which are crucial for personal growth. Through work, individuals acquire new skills, enhance their existing abilities, and gain valuable experience. This continuous learning process boosts confidence and competence, preparing individuals for future challenges and career advancements.

Having a job promotes social interaction and a sense of community. This is one of the things that was so debilitating during COVID. Workplaces are social environments where individuals interact, collaborate, and build relationships. These interactions are essential for developing communication skills and creating a support network.

Employment also plays a crucial role in societal progress. Economically, a high employment rate contributes to the overall health of the economy. Employed individuals pay taxes, which fund public services such as education, infrastructure, and healthcare. This tax revenue supports the development and maintenance of community services and amenities, creating a better living environment for all.

Jobs drive innovation and productivity. In a dynamic work environment, employees are often encouraged to think creatively and solve problems, leading to innovation. This innovation not only benefits individual companies but also stimulates broader economic growth and technological advancement.

Finally, having a job instills a sense of purpose and identity. Work provides individuals with goals and responsibilities, contributing to a structured and meaningful life. The sense of achievement and recognition from accomplishing workrelated tasks boosts self-esteem and job satisfaction. This sense of purpose is crucial for mental health, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.

The importance of having a job transcends financial stability. Employment fosters personal development, enhances social interactions, drives economic growth, and instills a sense of purpose. It is a fundamental aspect of a thriving individual and a progressive society, underscoring the need for policies and initiatives that promote job creation and employment opportunities for all.

Lower Columbia College

Amber Lemiere Faculty Advisor, The Salal Review

Magazine Provides Space to Share Stories

Iwas a toddler when my family moved to Longview and my dad began his tenured position as a welding faculty member in the shops of the Applied Arts building: plotted now for demolition and future plans for our students in the trades. I still remember Dad’s bulky lunch cooler and thermos, the smell of steel dust in the air, and trekking the vintage-tiled hall that stretches from the parking lot to the weld shop. More than a decade later, I walked that hall to my first college math course. Another decade later, I walked that hall to a room where I adorned my first black robe for graduation, no longer a student but a staff member. My dad, Allan Evald, worked here for 25 years before he died quickly of cancer in the summer of 2016, but I have lived on this campus because of him for more than three decades of my life; this coming fall, I will embark on my 18th year of employment at my alma mater, Lower Columbia College (LCC).

Like many local high school graduates, I longed to leave our community at first; it took me time to see the value and worth of staying… on this campus, in this town, in my own skin, and in my own story. It also took leaving.

Last summer, on a 12-hour flight to far-from-here, I stared out the oval, thick-paned window at the top sides of clouds and the blank canvas of blue skies, and I let my mind wander. I envisioned trees, slowly leaking with sap, sticky drips collecting organic material as they fell into heavier drops and hardened into resin: into Amber. I knew that my name meant “precious gem,” but in this moment of stillness and suspense, I could see the fossils hardened within me. I held myself up to the light and saw my dad within me, preserved forever, glowing in golden color.

I’ve been thinking of preservation ever since, and of how important it is to provide opportunities for stories to be told and held for posterity. It was an honor, therefore, to be asked to tell some of my story through this feature article for you, readers of the Chamber newsletter, and also to tell you about The Salal Review: whose pages, published in print and online, have preserved the stories and creative expression of our region’s diverse students, staff, faculty, and community members of all ages for the past 24 years.

For more LCC, see page 11

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

Anderson & Anderson Advisory, LLC

Cowlitz River Rigging, Inc

Educational Service District No. 112

Emergency Support Shelter

Epson Portland, Inc

Erickson Glass Company

Fiesta Bonita Mexican Grill & Cantina

Foster Farms

Hart C's Steakburger & Thai Food

Longview Physical & Sports Therapy Service

Longview Self Storage

Motion Industries, Inc

Opsahl, Dawson & Company, PS - Kelso

PNE Construction

Prestige Senior Living Monticello Park

Progress Center

page 10

I was published in The Salal Review when I was a student. I was 19, taking an evening creative writing course with Joseph Green, a former faculty member and local poet. He asked if I might be willing to share a piece of fiction I’d crafted for the course; this flattered me enough that I agreed without knowing anything about the magazine, having never seen or heard of it. In the two years that followed, I joined the magazine as a student editor, sitting in on the rich and hard conversations of acceptance and rejection as we reviewed poetry, prose, and various forms of visual art; flipping through manuals and tinkering with Adobe during mind-numbing hours; collating, binding, and cutting every book by hand; sweating alongside the other student editors; covering up errors with grace and growth; and planning celebrations. When I became a faculty member, I found my way back into the Salal workroom where I now regularly teach our magazine courses and manage a small team of paid students to ensure we go to print on time and deliver a student-led product that we can take pride in. I have spent years advocating for our budget, trading sleep for edits, and dreaming us forward into full-color print magazines, online spaces, and–for the first time ever this past May–the publication of performance art: original songs, videos, and spoken word poems, created by our students (www.salalreview.com/ perform24).

Salal, the native plant of the Northwest coast that gives our college’s arts magazine its name, is one of the first bits of green to grow again after the scorching of a fire. It is resilient, and it is pervasive. With a wide root system, it runs the stretch of our region, providing groundcover, bell-shaped flowers, and sticky, deep-purple berries at the close of the summer season. As the author Robert Michael Pyle once wrote, salal “shouts ‘Washington’ as it spurts from the spring-warmed earth.” It tells the story of our land.

I hold myself up to the light again, and this time I spot a silhouette of Salal

To become a reader of The Salal Review, visit our website at www. salalreview.com. You may also find free, printed copies of Volume 24 scattered across campus or in coffee shops and other local gems throughout the community. These are free for you to enjoy and share!

To submit your own literary, visual, and performance art for possible publication in our next volume, coming June 2025 (or to learn more about the submission process), visit www.salalreview.com/submit We welcome submissions from anyone with a connection to the Lower Columbia Region.

To help us grow by way of financial support, visit www.salalreview. com/support. Every bit of generosity helps our magazine spread, without the barrier of sales or payment.

Finally, save the date for the LCC Spring Arts Festival at the Rose Center for the Arts, June 5, 2025. Expect the unveiling of Volume 25, live music, refreshments, the annual student art show and pottery sale, and other creative entertainment, followed by a theatrical performance in the evening.

Longview Downtowners

Amelia Nesbit President

Downtowners Elect VP and Board Members, While Downtown Kicks Off Summer

Greetings downtown Longview community!

We’re thrilled to share some exciting updates with you as we dive into the summer season. First off, please join us in welcoming Alex Kirby, the passionate owner of Magpie Books, as our newly elected vice president! Alex brings a wealth of fresh ideas and a deep commitment to making downtown Longview the beating heart of our community. Welcome aboard, Alex!

Additionally, we’re excited to announce new members joining our board of directors: Nathan Douglas from Canopy Mortgage, Kimberly Morgan from Sugar Pearl Dessert Co., Clifford Verhoeff from TCB Entertainment, and Lauren Davis from The

First Weekend of Summer Kicks Off with Multiple Community Events

We kicked off the summer season with a bang! June 21, saw the annual Downtown Longview Community Clean-Up, honoring our dear friend and community member Lonnie Knowles. Thanks to everyone who pitched in – we made a significant impact on our cityscape, with special thanks to the City of Longview for their support by donating the garbage receptacles!

The festivities continued with our Summer Solstice Festival that brought in six Northwest bands, several solo acts, and more than 3,500 people visiting our downtown area! Combined with the Tacos and Tequila event, this weekend brought together music, art, and our vibrant community spirit, in downtown Longview. What a fantastic way to usher in the sunny season! We're already looking forward to next year’s celebrations.

Upcoming Events in Downtown Longview

Mark your calendars for some upcoming events that promise to keep the summer fun going:

• Stroll, Shop, and Sip – Join us on July 3 from 4-7 p.m. for an evening of exploring local businesses, enjoying special offers, and soaking up the lively atmosphere in downtown Longview. Participating businesses are: Beautifully Gifted People, Beauti Collective, Dapper Dandelion Floral & Plant, Forest, Stone, & Sea, Golden Ladder Interiors, Halon Salon, Med Spa, & Boutique, Jae Mac Menswear, JoJo + CoCo Boutique, Niche Home, Posh on Commerce, Wander Boutique, and more!

• 3rd Annual Wizarding Birthday Celebration – Save the date for July 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Merk in downtown Longview. Enter the magical world of Harry Potter with enchanting games, butterbeer, a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone, and much more. It’s a day not to be missed!

Join Us!

With so much happening in downtown Longview, there’s never been a better time to get involved. The Longview Downtowners are dedicated to uniting our community, celebrating our local businesses, and creating unforgettable experiences for everyone. We can’t wait to see you at our upcoming events – let’s make 2024 a year to remember together!

Find us online at: www.downtownlongview.com, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/downtownlongviewwa

Kelso Business and Community Association

Lindsey Cope President

Progress and Plans for a Vibrant Future

Two years ago, the Kelso Business and Community Association (KBCA) announced a significant milestone: we had successfully raised enough funds to file for our nonprofit designation and secure insurance. This achievement marked the beginning of our official journey, although our efforts to bring stakeholders together and identify feasible projects had been ongoing since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially operating under the Cowlitz Economic Development Council, we partnered with the city and the former Kelso Downtown Revitalization Association to purchase our first set of planters and light pole banners.

Fast forward to today. The KBCA has made remarkable progress. We've transitioned from preparing to register for the America in Bloom Growing Vibrant Communities Program to completing

Reporting an outage is in the palm of your hand

our first assessment. Our second annual meeting and elections are on the horizon – following the success of our inaugural major fundraiser – the Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt held in March.

One of our most visible achievements is the near doubling of our city planters to 60, with additional planters now adorning private spaces. These vibrant additions have significantly enhanced the aesthetic appeal of Kelso, contributing to a more welcoming and attractive environment for residents and visitors. We have held multiple clean up events and have another coming this September.

We are also excited to announce upcoming events designed to foster community engagement and support local talent. Our first progressive dinner and a unique market featuring young vendors are in the planning stages, promising to bring fresh energy and innovation to Kelso.

Our board and impact continue to grow, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of our partners at the city, county, Rotary, Habitat for Humanity, other nonprofit organizations, businesses, schools and citizens. This collaborative spirit is the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to achieve more than we ever could alone.

Recently, I attended the Washington Economic Development Association Summer Conference in Spokane. I returned with inspiring insights from Spokane’s downtown association and sports tourism programs, eager to implement some of their successful strategies in Kelso and Cowlitz County with our local partners.

If you are passionate about the economic and community development of Kelso, we invite you to join us at our meetings, where we discuss and plan initiatives to rejuvenate our beloved town. Our meetings are open to everyone interested in contributing to Kelso’s growth and vitality. For more information, visit our website at www.letsgokelso.com or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/letsgokelso. We can’t wait to work with you!

County Commissioners

Arne Mortensen District 1

A Triptych of Timely Issues

First Panel - The Coming Election of County Commissioners:

In November Cowlitz County citizens will elect two new commissioners, replacing the retiring commissioners of District 1 and District 2. This is an unusual circumstance; it is no surprise that citizens as well as staff are a bit worried about what this change might bring.

District 2, which mostly is Longview, has six candidates who will vie in August for the two spots to qualify for the general November election. District 1, the southern section of the County, including Woodland, Kalama, and Kelso, has three candidates.

By what measure should a candidate for County Commissioner be rated? That is for you, the voter, to decide, but I hope you do it wisely, because it does matter. While it is well beyond the scope of this note to define adequately the functions of a County Commissioner, it certainly is true that decisions made by Commissioners have immediate as well as long term impacts.

Let me leave this topic by suggesting that the most important attributes of a County Commissioner (any political person) are:

• Courage – the strength to stand for what is right; the opposite of go along to get along

• Judgement – the ability to see past the emotion to evaluate issues properly

• Wisdom – as the Gambler said, to know when to hold them and when to fold them (Kenny Rogers); to know when you don’t know

• Knowledge – a broad understanding of the disciplines that are required for successful operations of multi-faceted entities

• Leadership - self-motivated learner, statesman ability

• Integrity – working openly and honestly for the good of the County

Second Panel – Renewable Hydrogen Alliance (RHA)

Recently I attended a presentation largely given by a

spokesperson of the RHA, with some presentation by a person from the state Department of Commerce. The purpose of the meeting was to get support for government initiatives to push the usage of hydrogen as a clean energy source.

While the fundamental assumption is that carbon dioxide generated by man’s activities must be reduced to save the planet, it seemed like the focus was grant seeking. Of course, the anthropogenic climate change argument, as in the governor’s Climate-change Commitment Act (CCA), is political football nonsense that has traction among grant seekers and shallow thinkers.

The physics of hydrogen is well understood. There is almost no free hydrogen in the atmosphere because hydrogen is too light for earth’s gravity to retain it. Any hydrogen that meets up with oxygen immediately produces that very stable staple of life, water, so breaking water apart requires significant energy, more than is in the chemical bonds.

The proposal is to use electricity to break the oxygen-hydrogen bond in water; this is electrolysis. The sophistry begins in that only renewable electricity will be used, allowing us to call it renewable hydrogen. Ignore the fact that electricity is fungible, so no one knows which electron is from where.

The silliness in the presentation included a complete failure to analyze the efficiencies of converting electrical energy to hydrogen and then back to electricity.

The presentation included elements that attracted the attention of many attendees…grants totaling $1 billion.

The more our government strays from its fundamental charter to protect life and property, the more we resemble the planned economies of other nations. Some, like the Former Soviet Union, perished under the ineffective nature of centralized planning.

Government planning is societal poison. That something is subsidized is little different from government forced planning. From Microsoft’s Copilot:

For more Commissioners, see page 15

Commissioners from page 14

1. Soviet Union (USSR): The concept of Five-Year Plans originated in the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin. The first Five-Year Plan was implemented in 1928. These plans involved centralized economic planning, with specific production targets set for various sectors. Quotas were used to guide industrial and agricultural growth1

Is this not what our government is doing? The RHA is another organization looking for taxpayer money. The free market, not the government is the engine of progress.

Completing the Triptych – Recent WSAC Trouble?

The Washington Association of Counties (WSAC) recently has experienced some serious upheaval as some of the counties with the largest populations have decided that the rules must change, or they will quit the association.

EmploymEnt law

• Alternative Dispute Resolution

• Disability Accommodation Issues

• Discrimination Claims

• Employee Training

• Employment Contracts and Manuals

• Family and Medical Leave

• Hiring, Discipline, and Termination

• Investigation of Complaints

• Labor Relations

• Litigation

• Employment Agreements

• Severance Agreements

• Sexual Harassment Claims

• Unemployment Compensation

• Wage and Hour Disputes

• Wrongful Termination

At issue is that the money to fund WSAC comes from fees levied by population count, but the vote is just one per county. It is understandable that the larger counties feel this is not fair because they bear the financial load.

But does a 39 county WSAC make sense? WSAC is a lobby that counties use to influence the legislature, and that might make sense for the small counties. The larger counties already form the bulk of the legislature, so why do they need a lobby? The little counties are fighting the tyranny of the legislature, driven by the big counties, so perhaps there isn’t sufficient common purpose for the WSAC as we know it?

WSAC governance is comprised of elected government officials. What does it mean for one government entity to lobby another government entity?

The issue is yet unresolved.

bdelaney@kelsolongviewchamber.org

Nathan Davis, Veterans Golf Tournament

Heather Palow and Becky, Longview Public Library

Josh Carter, Longview

Cameron Parson, Cowlitz Junk Removal

Gavin Manheimer and Kerri Guitteau, Cowlitz Black Bears

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

Look Who Joined in June

Arbor Vancouver-Equus Workforce

Karin LaValla 204 SE Stonemill Drive Vancouver, WA 98684 360-735-4957 Karin.lavalla@esd.wa.gov

Lemons Aflac Consulting

Mellisa Lemons 108 Fishers Lane Kelso, WA 98626 360-771-1746 Mellisa_lemons@us.aflac.com

Rollins Utility Locating LLC

James Rollins 3133 Florida Street Longview, WA 98632 360-270-0434 rollinsutilitylocating@gmail.com

Teevin Bros Land & Timber Co., LLC

Aaron Breckenridge 42894 Old Highway 30 Astoria, OR 97103 503-458-6671 Aaron@teevinbros.com

Downing Custom Furniture & Wood Products

Ronald Downing 1425 Alabama Street, Suite M Longview, WA 98632 503-308-2212 downingenterprises@comcast.net

Advanced Messaging & Dispatch

Scott Dahlquist 1137 Vandercook Way Longview, WA 98632 360-425-6736 office@advancedmessaging.us

Trammell Crow Company

Kirk Olsen 1300 SW 5th Avenue 3350 Portland, OR 97201 503-890-5172 kollsen@trammellcrow.com

Elite Electrical Contracting

Bobby Davis

1332 Vandervcook Way, Unit B Longview, WA 98632 360-947-3440 office@eliteec.net

Nonprofit

Business After Hours

RE/MAX Premiere Group

It was another fabulous evening at our June Business After Hours. REMAX Premiere Group Longview on Washington Way graciously opened its doors. Thank you for hosting. There was a great turnout to enjoy the spread of tasty food and beverages and take home an array of raffle prizes. The room was filled with lively conversation, emphasizing our effort to bring local business leaders together montly for this networking opportunity.

Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue accepts applications for volunteers

Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue is accepting volunteer applications through July 8. Volunteers take part in a four-month hybrid academy to learn all the skills needed to be a firefighter. After academy, the volunteers pull 12-24 hour shifts on duty and attend weekly training to keep their skills sharp.

Volunteers must meet requirements for membership:

• Be 18 years old.

• Posess a high school diploma, GED, or higher degree.

• Pass a background check and risk assesment evaluation.

• Posess a valid driver’s license

• Maintain an insurable driving record with no criminal violations, and no more than two moving violations in three years.

• Pass a fit-for-duty physical and drug screen.

• Continually meet participation requirements and complete required training promptly.

Find more information on our website under “Apply.”

Help The Community House On Broadway reach its goal

The Community House On Broadway’s 14th annual Cares Campaign is underway with a target of raising $500,000 by the in July.

All proceeds go to the youth shelter for unaccompanied teens facing homelessness. This will house 48 teens (24 boys and 24 girls) and is scheduled to open in September. Kelso/Longview/ Castle Rock school districts currently have about 106 documented teens who are unaccompanied and homeless. Community House is fundraising and in real need of donors to make this happen, with inflation the cost is going up daily.

If interested, donors can schedule a tour with Community Coordinator Chelsea Allison and or Executive Director Frank Morrison.

Donate online at choblv.org or mail a check to Community House on Broadway, 1105 Broadway, PO Box 403, Longview, Wash., 98632. They will also publicly recognize and advertise businesses with large donations.

LCC instructor receives Fullbright US Scholar Program award

Dr. Morgan Salisbury, instructor of earth sciences at Lower Columbia College (LCC), has received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award in Earth Science Education to Bolivia for the 2024-25 academic year from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.

Salisbury’s project is “Advancing Earth Science Education and Student Research Opportunities in Bolivia.” It is a combined teaching and research project that aims to improve Earth Science education in Bolivia by creating and nurturing collaborative networks that enhance student pathways to their next level of education. Salisbury will visit rural areas and provide specialized Earth Science education materials, engage in collaborative workshops at the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés and help improve student opportunities for research and advancement.

Salisbury has been teaching at LCC since 2016.

“We are thrilled to have our first Fulbright Scholar at Lower Columbia College. Dr. Salisbury is an esteemed volcanologist who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the college’s Earth Science program. His involvement with the Fulbright Scholar Program will benefit Bolivia and the greater Lower Columbia College area through an ongoing exchange of scientific research

and innovative ideas,” said Dr. Matt Seimears, president of Lower Columbia College.

Independence Day 2024 spending set to boom

Written By Washington Retail Communications | Inside Washington Retail

As Independence Day approaches, a significant majority of consumers are gearing up for celebrations, with 87 percent planning to partake in festivities. According to a recent survey, individuals are expected to spend an average of $90.42 per person on food items for their Fourth of July celebrations.

In addition to food expenses, 31 percent of celebrants also plan to purchase additional patriotic items, adding to the vibrant spirit of the holiday.

The survey, conducted between June 3 and June 9 included responses from 8,952 consumers. These findings indicate a strong retail outlook for the holiday, suggesting retailers should prepare for a surge in demand for both food and patriotic merchandise.

As the Fourth of July approaches, retailers can expect an influx of shoppers eager to stock up on celebratory essentials, promising a bustling and prosperous holiday season for the retail sector.