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

Business Connection

Kelso

Longview Chamber of Commerce

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Bonnie Delaney CEO

Embracing Change and Celebrating Summer with the Chamber

As we hit the middle of summer, the Chamber is buzzing with excitement and good vibes. Change, which can be a bit intimidating, is actually bringing us fresh opportunities and new perspectives.

I've had the chance to explain what the Chamber is all about to many new people during our staff transition. It’s been a great reminder of just how awesome the Chamber is and how much it offers our community.

This summer has been a blast so far. The Cardboard Regatta at the Go 4th Celebration was a highlight, where creativity and teamwork were on full display as people sailed their homemade boats with lots of laughs. Island Bingo was another hit, bringing our community together for some fun and friendly competition.

Through all these changes and new adventures, the support from our Chamber Tribe—our amazing volunteers—has been incredible. I’m also grateful for my own tribe of colleagues, family, and friends who keep backing the Chamber.

Looking ahead, the future looks bright with all sorts of exciting work happening not only at the Chamber but in our community also.

July 19th, 2024

Island Bingo on July 19 was an epic adventure in numbers and tropical vibes! Picture this: the sun beaming down, waves gently lapping against the shore, and a crowd of excited bingo enthusiasts clutching their cards in anticipation. The air was filled with cheers and laughter as each number called by David Futcher brought us closer to that elusive win. Ok, so maybe we weren’t at the beach and were at the AWPPW hall BUT a good time was had by all.

The real magic was in the prizes. Though we didn’t have any snorkeling gear, hammocks, or even a surfboard up for grabs, we did have a lot of great game prizes everything from cash to beautiful gift baskets from our amazing sponsors.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the final round drew to a close. Winners rejoiced with their loot, and even those who didn’t win left with full bellies and smiles. Island Bingo 2024 has come to an end and I think fun was had by all. I can’t wait for next year’s Island Bingo!

A special shout out to all our sponsors, Island Bingo, wouldn’t happen without your support:

Foster Farms, Affordable Hearing, Whittle Team – Realty One Group Pacifica, Canopy Mortgage, Koelsch Communities, B & B Landscaping, Longview Self Storage, Catlin Properties, The Dog Zone, Jason Meunier at Fibre Federal, ServPro of Longview / Kelso, NORPAC, Red Canoe, Penny Parvi – American Family Insurance, Mint Valley Credit Union, Columbia Theatre, Heritage Bank, Lower Columbia Longshoremen’s Federal Credit Union, The Jewelers Bench, Elam’s Home Furnishings, Stewart Title, Twin City Bank, Walstead Mertsching, Ecological Land Services, Karen Sisson, Details Home Inspection, Specialty Rents, Fire Mountain Grill, McDonalds, Life Works and White’s Cleaning Company.

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Longview Public Schools

Dr. Karen Cloninger

Superintendent

Iwant to express my gratitude for the warm welcome the community of Longview has shown me. I am thrilled and honored to join you as the new superintendent of Longview Public Schools! Over the past several months, I’ve enjoyed exploring Longview, visiting our schools, and meeting with staff and community members.

The stakeholder meetings I have held, and will continue to hold, have been encouraging and insightful. One thing that is very clear, is our community and families have a strong tradition of supporting our schools and our employees care deeply about the success of students.

As your new superintendent, I want to assure you that I am dedicated to understanding our community’s norms, traditions, relationships, and hopes, and I will work diligently to develop a foundation that is based on transparency and trust.

As the year progresses, I will use what I’ve learned to carefully and collaboratively plan steps that are focused on student achievement goals and student well-being.

I want to thank you for your continued support of Longview Public Schools. I look forward to welcoming our students and staff back this August 28th!

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 Commissioner Cowlitz County

Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Advisor

Guarding Your Business: The Imperative of Cybersecurity for Small Enterprises

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity isn't just a concern for large corporations; it's a critical issue for small businesses as well. Often perceived as low-risk targets, small businesses are increasingly becoming prey to cybercriminals. The misconception that "it won't happen to us" can lead to devastating consequences. This article aims to shed light on the cybersecurity risks small businesses face and offer actionable steps to protect your enterprise from cyber threats.

Cyber Threat Landscape for Small Businesses

Rising Threat Levels: Small businesses are attractive targets for cybercriminals primarily due to their assumed lack of robust security measures. According to a 2022 report by Verizon, 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. These attacks can range from phishing and ransomware to more sophisticated threats like advanced persistent threats (APTs).

Financial Impact: The financial ramifications of a cyber-attack can be crippling for a small business. The cost of data breaches, including legal fees, remediation, and reputational damage, can run into thousands of dollars. For many small businesses, such an expense can mean the difference between staying afloat and closing doors permanently.

Data Sensitivity: Small businesses often handle sensitive information, including customer data, payment details, and proprietary business information. A breach of this data can result in severe legal and financial repercussions, not to mention the loss of customer trust.

Steps to Protect Your Small Business

1. Conduct a Risk Assessment: The first step in bolstering your cybersecurity is to understand where your vulnerabilities lie. Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential weaknesses in your network, systems, and processes.

Below is a great site provided by The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency: https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/ free-cybersecurity-services-and-tools

2. Implement Strong Password Policies: Weak passwords are a common entry point for cyber-attacks. Implement strong password policies that require the use of complex passwords and encourage regular updates. Consider using a password manager to help employees

maintain secure passwords without the need to remember them all.

3. Regular Software Updates: Ensure all software, including operating systems, antivirus programs, and applications, are regularly updated. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Keeping your systems up to date is a simple yet effective way to mitigate this risk.

4. Employee Training: Your employees are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Regular training on identifying phishing emails, safe browsing practices, and the importance of data protection can significantly reduce the risk of a successful attack. Simulated phishing exercises can also help employees recognize and respond to real threats.

5. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification steps to access accounts. Even if a password is compromised, MFA can prevent unauthorized access.

6. Data Backup and Recovery Plans: Regularly back up your data and ensure that your backup is stored securely, preferably off-site or in the cloud. In the event of a ransomware attack or data loss, a robust backup and recovery plan can be the difference between a minor setback and a major disaster.

7. Invest in Security Software: Invest in reliable antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall solutions. These tools can detect and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage.

8. Develop an Incident Response Plan: In the event of a cyber-attack, having a well-documented incident response plan can help you respond quickly and effectively. This plan should outline the steps to take, key contacts, and how to communicate with stakeholders during and after an incident.

9. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Ensure your business Wi-Fi network is secure by using strong passwords and encryption. Separate guest and business networks to minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

10. Stay Informed: Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Stay Continued on page 6

informed about the latest threats and best practices by subscribing to cybersecurity newsletters, participating in webinars, and joining relevant industry groups.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a critical component of your business's overall health and longevity. By understanding the risks and implementing these protective measures, you can safeguard your small business against the ever-present threat of cyber-attacks. Remember, proactive steps today can save you from significant headaches and finan-

Kelso City Council

Mike Karnofski

Position 2

cial losses tomorrow.

Today there are insurance policies to help deal with incursions you experience which may be worth exploring – insurance brokers can also help with ‘cyber hygiene’ best practices and other safeguards.

This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, and Certified Business Advisor with the 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

Kelso Summer Projects

In addition to the normal summer projects of repainting cross walks, and parking areas and chip sealing roads there are a lot of other projects underway or close to starting. The biggest project underway is the restrooms for the spray park. This is the first phase of $1.3 million spray park renovations. The equipment for the spray park is in storage waiting for the permitting. Adjacent to the spray park is the Catlin Hall improvement project including new siding and roof.

The train station project started this week which includes new roof, windows and gutters. This project was funded by a grant from the State, thanks to the help of Senator Wilson. The train station is the first thing that many people see when they arrive in Kelso and it is great that they will see a nicer train station. While discussing the train station, we need to thank the volunteers who act as greeters for people using the station. They do a great job of welcoming people and providing information. Anyone interested in being a greeter can contact the City.

The groundbreaking for Lads & Lassies Park was held July 25th. This will be the first ADA designed park in the area. The largest City project which will start in August is the Hazel Street overpass. This $35 million project is fully funded by the State.

An important activity which has been started is the campaign to approve a sales tax for the Transportation Benefit District. In November, the citizens of Kelso will be asked to approve a 0.2% sales tax which will be totally dedicated to street improvements. This will add 2 cents to a $10 purchase.

With the nice weather I hope that more people are getting to enjoy Tam O Shanter Park. It is a great place to walk in the shade on a hot day.

Getting what you need to move your business forward is faster and easier with a Heritage Business Express loan. Plus, lower the interest rate on your loan by 0.50% with automated payments from your Heritage Bank checking account. bankwithheritagenw.com/business-express

Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments

Bill Fashing Executive Director

In the Shadow of Mount St. Helens

Spirit Lake – Toutle/Cowlitz River Collaborative (SLTCRC)

Sor over 40 years the Spirit Lake-Toutle/Cowlitz River Basin residents have struggled with economic disruption, sediment, and flood risk issues without any tool to work cooperatively with state and federal partners. The Spirit Lake-Toutle/Cowlitz River Collaborative (SLTCRC) was created to address this ongoing concern based on a research study concluded by the National Academies of Science.

Over the past several years, the United States Forest Service (USFS) has played a key role in promoting discussions on some of the issues of the basin and the downstream communities. Four years ago, the CWCOG joined with the USFS to kick off a local, state, and federal collaborative effort. The funding from the USFS with the local in-kind match through the CWCOG ended in June of 2022. The ongoing work of the Collaborative will support the collaborative’s continued efforts to improve coordination of management efforts across the system focused on the reduction of flood risk, recovery of ecosystems, improving economic resiliency and improving public access. The efforts will also support on-going scientific research, reducing costs of maintaining shipping access in the Columbia River, and reducing risks to the well-being of the downstream people and communities. The CWCOG serves as the Administrative Coordination Entity on the project.

Shared Values of the Collaborative

• Safety for downstream communities

• Restored, healthy ecosystems

• Access: Increasing for recreation; maintaining for research and education

• Securing sufficient funding for planning and implementation

• Managing for multiple functions and benefits

• Reducing intervention via engineered structures in favor of natural processes

Spirit Lake Outflow Safety Improvement Project

Following the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 the USFS in conjunction with the US Army Corps of Engineers took action to address catastrophic flooding issues presented by the reformed Spirit Lake. The preferred action was to develop a tunnel to serve as the outflow of the lake that did not have a natural outflow. The project was designed to maintain a consistent level and reduce catastrophic flood risks that could result if the lake topped the natural barrier of the lake.

For many years, the U.S. Forest Service and others have discussed the need for an alternative outflow. The tunnel has served the region well but requires consistent maintenance and is subject to failure. The USFS – Gifford Pinchot National Forest is currently conducting stakeholder engagement to assist with development of potential options for a long-term Spirit Lake outflow solution. The lake has the potential to affect 60,000 to 70,000 people in the downstream communities within the Toutle, Cowlitz, and Columbia River systems. Safely managing the water level of Spirit Lake is paramount to those downstream communities. Identifying a solution that maintains safe water levels of Spirit Lake while addressing the unique resources and values present in the Mount St. Helens area are all part of this project.

Two meetings were held in July 2024. A copy and recording of the presentation can be found on the Forest Service website here - https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/giffordpinchot/landmanageme nt/?cid=fseprd1004094

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process will consider possible actions to address the Spirit Lake outflow issue is scheduled to begin soon (tentatively September) where those interested will have an opportunity to engage in the environmental analysis process.

Following the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, the natural outflow for Spirit Lake was blocked by a debris avalanche. The Spirit Lake outlet tunnel was constructed under emergency conditions to maintain safe lake levels. The tunnel is in an area of volcanic, geologic, hydrologic, and seismic hazards. These hazards increase the potential for breach of the debris blockage and/or tunnel failure, putting downstream communities at risk of a catastrophic mudflow in the event of a full lake breach.

The Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments was recognized on behalf of the SLTCRC and received a 2023 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for the work of the Spirit Lake – Toutle/ Cowlitz River Collaborative. For more information on the SLTCRC, you can go to the CWCOG website https://www.cwcog.org/spiritlake/

July 9th,

July Business After Hours was hosted by our Chamber friends, American Workforce Group. There was a great turnout even on the hottest day of the year! We drank, we ate but most importantly we learned all about how American Workforce Group recruits on behalf of their clients and the great work they are doing in the community to make sure our residents have access to viable employment AND our industry has access to a stable employee pool.

Thank you for hosting our July Business After Hours, American Workforce Group and keep up the good work.

Workforce Southwest Washington

Julia Maglione Director of Communications

Ways to help your employees balance work and childcare

Balancing a career and raising children can be challenging. Childcare is not only expensive but is often difficult to find. This forces parents to take time and attention away from their jobs. Parents in this situation need flexibility and will benefit from active communication with their employer on childcare policies and their needs.

In its 2023 study, ReadyNation found the nation’s childcare crisis has resulted in $122 billion in lost earnings, productivity and revenue. This is more than double the $57 billion identified in 2018 by the same report. Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed more than 120,000 Americans missed work in 2024 due to childcare responsibilities. This often impacts women disproportionately with 75% of working mothers losing job opportunities due to childcare needs according to the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

According to Sarah Wells, author of "Go Ask Your Mothers: One Simple Step for Managers to Support Working Moms for Team Success," the first step is acknowledging that parenthood means change. Understand that your employees are changed people. Their priorities and needs have been permanently impacted. This understanding sets the basis for all decisions going forward.

While fixing the institutional issues surrounding childcare is a massive undertaking, there are steps companies can take to support their employees.

Parents need flexibility in their schedules. When possible, allow parents to schedule their work around the needs of their children for things such as school drop off/pick up and medical appointments. Allow remote work options when possible. Ensure your employees know this flexibility will not negatively impact their careers.

According to Wells, parents cited lack of communication as the root of many workplace stresses as they strive to balance caring for their children and their careers. Have conversations with your

employees so you can fully understand what they need and how you can help them. Starting a parents’ group could be a good way to start these conversations. Let parents get together and share their experiences. Strongly consider their suggestions for what would make the workplace more friendly for them.

Knowing what your employees need, you can then create an action plan to support them. There are resources that can help you! Take advantage of the resources listed below and collaborate with your colleagues to see how they approach the issue.

A few things your company can do to get started:

• The Washington Department of Commerce Family-Friendly Workplace Program offers no-cost consulting to employers to help you consider, assess and implement family-friendly employment policies and practices in your workplace.

• Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) outlines ways you can support employees who are parents and caregivers in our Quality Jobs Comprehensive Benefits guide. Some of the strategies include improving paid time off policies and allowing flexibility to accommodate unplanned emergencies such as picking a sick child up from school. Refer to the guide for additional strategies that support employees’ well-being and family.

• Consider providing pre-tax dependent care spending accounts or subsidies to your employees.

• Offer employees on-site childcare or seek opportunities to pool resources with a neighboring business.

• Provide referrals to resources

» WorkSource can help eligible parents with childcare-related costs. Contact Heather Fox at heather.fox@esd.wa.gov or (360) 735-5005 for program eligibility.

» Search for Childcare Aware resources by state at https://www. childcareaware.org/resources/map/

Taking the initiative to understand parents and be flexible with their needs can go a long way to retaining your valued employees.

A big THANK YOU to all the new and loyal members who have started or continued their partnership with us this month:

• Hop N Grape Longview LLC

• Tierra Interpreting

• Cacao Kingdom, LLC

• Urban Bungee

• Roofing Systems Northwest

• Arbor Vancouver - Equus Workforce

• Rollins Utility Locating LLC

• Lemons Aflac Consulting

• Downing Custom Furniture & Wood Products

• Red Canoe Credit Union - Kelso

• Teevin Bros. Land & Timber

• Trammell Crow Company

• Elite Electrical Contracting

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

•

• Nonprofit

Longview Downtowners

Amelia Nesbit President

Longview Downtowners & Downtown Businesses Hard at Work, Summer Events are in Full Swing

Summer Greetings, Downtown Longview!

With summer blazing its trail through Downtown Longview, the pulse of our community beats stronger than ever. From lively events to charming boutiques and delectable eateries, Downtown Longview is where the heart of summer beats loudest. It’s a delightful sight to see our streets bustling with locals and visitors alike, soaking in the sun-kissed vibes and the spirit of togetherness.

Upcoming Events in Downtown Longview

Get ready to mark your calendars as Downtown Longview prepares to dazzle you with a series of exciting events:

First Friday Car Cruise on Commerce - On August 2nd at 6 PM, gearheads and families alike are invited to witness the spectacle of classic cars parading through Downtown. Join in the festivities, explore our vibrant shops, and revel in the community spirit that defines Downtown Longview.

Stroll, Shop, and Sip - Don’t miss the next edition on August 7th from 4 PM to 7 PM. It’s an evening designed for exploring local treasures, enjoying exclusive offers, sipping refreshing beverages, and immersing yourself in the eclectic charm of Downtown Longview. Participating businesses include: 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 many more!

Downtown Deals Semi-annual Sale - On August 16th and 17th, brace yourselves for an epic shopping spree. Discover incredible bargains at the semi-annual sale across Downtown Longview, where savings meet style.

Makers Market in The Merk - Join us on August 24th for a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. The Makers Market showcases over 25 local artisans, each bringing their unique handmade creations to the heart of our community. It’s an event not to be missed for anyone with an eye for one-of-a-kind treasures.

Join Us!

The Longview Downtowners are committed to revitalizing our community, celebrating local businesses, and curating unforgettable experiences for all. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, we invite you to join us in embracing the vibrant spirit of Downtown Longview. Our next meeting is Thursday, August 15th at 8 AM, on the main floor of The Merk.

Stay Connected

For more information on these events and to stay updated on everything Downtown Longview has to offer, visit us online at www. downtownlongview.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/downtownlongviewwa

Reporting an outage is in the palm of your hand

Summer Reading Program

Thru August 10

Participants of all ages can join the reading challenge, with incentives like milestone prizes and activities such as story times and book clubs. Set personal or family reading goals and log your progress daily to earn rewards and combat the "Summer Slide."

More August Events:

• Rainbow Community - Mondays, 3 - 5 PM

• Teen Bookapalooza - August 8, 3 PM

• Evergreen Teen Book Club - July 18, 3:30 PM

• Mad Hatter Tea Party - August 25, 3 - 5 PM

See the full list of events in the link below:

https://www.mylongview.com/951/2024-Summer-Events-Booklet

Wednesday Nights at Bethany

July 24 thru August 14 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Bethany Lutheran Church is doing a community outreach by holding different activities each Wednesday night into August. Only 1 event is limited seating, July 24th Painting class. Each event starts at 6:30 Wednesday nights and we will have it wrapped up by 8:00.

2900 Parkview Dr, Longview, WA 98632 (by Columbia Heights Elementary School) more events may be added.

https://files.constantcontact.com/d300b010801/bb4f9f01-4b3f4169-bf34-93f23c51bf70.pdf

Fill the Canoe - Back to School Drive

July 29 thru August 16

The Fill the Canoe Back to School Drive was founded in 2007 by Red Canoe Credit Union with a simple goal in mind, to make a difference in the lives of school-aged children in the communities we serve. All donations made to Fill the Canoe are matched by Red Canoe CU.

Since 2007, they've matched 254,015 pounds of school supplies. Red Canoe is grateful for the support of our members, staff, partners and generous community.

Click below to donate online or drop off supply donations.

https://www.fillthecanoe.com/

Kelso Kids Bridge Market

August 9 | 11 AM - 2 PM

CALLING ALL KIDS, AGES 5 TO 18! Get a booth at our Bridge Market just for young vendors! Sell your goods (think handcrafted, homemade or kid-related items) or services (like face painting or making balloon animals). No food products please. A parent or legal guardian must accompany child at all times.

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. More information at https://www.letsgokelso.com/events

203 S. Pacific, Kelso, WA (Under the Bridge - Next to Kelso City Hall)

First Shots Event

August 10 | 10 AM, 12 PM & 2 PM

The Cowlitz Public Shooting Range is offering a COMPLETELY FREE "First Shots" shotgun clay target shooting event on August 10, 2024, for National Shooting Sports Month.

Participants will receive instruction and shoot 10 clay targets, with all equipment provided. A $25 coupon for future sessions is given for completing a survey. Limited to 30 participants. No prior experience is needed, but minors must have a guardian.

For details or reservations, contact Steve Nelson at 360-846-3535 or visit their website at http://cowlitzshootingrange.com/

Evergreen Teen Book Club

August 15 | 3:30 PM

Read and discuss book nominees for the Evergreen Teen Book Award. Pick up a FREE copy of the book at the Lower Floor Desk ahead of the meeting, and then come discuss with library staff and other teen readers. Open to middle and high school age youth.

http://evergreenbookaward.org/

Squirrel Fest Demo Lessons

August 17 | 11 AM - 2 PM

Get ready to groove at Squirrel Fest with our fun and engaging square dancing demo lessons! Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on your steps, our friendly instructors will guide you through the basics in a welcoming and lively atmosphere. Come join the fun, make new friends, and discover the joy of square dancing—no experience needed!

https://www.facebook.com/RSquareD4all/

From page 17

Safe Kids - Free Car Seat Check

August 17 | 10 AM - 12 PM

Join us at Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue for a free car seat check event! Qualifying participants will receive one free car seat per car/family thanks to a generous donation by the Junior League of Lower Columbia earlier this year. First come, first served—don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to protect your little ones.

Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue | Follow the signs to the fire station bays. 701 Vine St, Kelso, WA 98626.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1gg9CsUZbt9drw3h/

Mind, Body & Soul - Free Summer Classes

August 29 | 5:30 PM

Please join us for Mind, Body, & Soul Free Summer Classes at Tam O'Shanter Park provided by Self Wellness Coach Katie Murray. Classes are free to the public, no library card necessary to attend.

https://fb.me/e/5keVOENAE

Kelso Business and Community Association

Lindsey

Cope President

Exciting Events by the KBCA

The Kelso Business and Community Association (KBCA) is thrilled to announce a lineup of vibrant events celebrating our dynamic community. Get ready for a mix of youthful creativity, historical intrigue, and community spirit!

Kelso Bites, Brews, and Brothels Tour

August 8 | 3 PM - 8 PM (Brothel Tour at 5:30 or 6:30 pm)

Indulge in a culinary adventure with a twist! Enjoy a “choose your own adventure” progressive dinner featuring drinks, appetizers, entrées, and desserts from some of Kelso’s wonderful establishments. Top it off with an exclusive walking Brothel History Tour led by Cowlitz County Historical Museum’s Director, Joseph Govednik. This is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss. Register now at www.letsgokelso.com/events.

$65 per person – all proceeds go to participating businesses and the Cowlitz County Historical Museum Society.

Kelso Kids Bridge Market

August 9 | 11 AM - 2 PM

Calling all young entrepreneurs aged 5-18! Showcase your talents and creativity by hosting your own booth to sell goods and services. From face painting to handmade crafts, the possibilities are endless. Spaces are only $5 per child, so sign up now at www.letsgokelso. com/events and be part of this exciting event!

Covered parking area under the bridge next to Kelso City Hall, 203 S. Pacific, Kelso, WA

KBCA Monthly Meeting

August 22 | 9:30 AM

Join us for our monthly KBCA meeting and get involved in our community!

Tam O' Shanter Park, covered area by the playground

KBCA September Kelso Clean Up Event

September 5

Join our yearly clean-up event and help us spruce up the parade route for the upcoming Annual Highlander Festival. It’s a great way to meet neighbors, have fun, and make a difference! More details will be out soon at www.letsgokelso.com

Highlander Festival Parade and Vendors Registration

Get ready for the Highlander Festival by registering now for the parade and vendor spots. Visit the Highlander Festival | City of Kelso for more information.

Don’t miss these fantastic opportunities to support local youth, dive into Kelso’s history, and contribute to our community’s beauty and spirit! 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!