Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Congratulations to CEO Bill Marcum, who celebrated 10 years with the Chamber in February!
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Bill Marcum CEO
k March 2022
Volume 14 • Issue 3 Business Connection is published monthly by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce 105 N. Minor Road • Kelso, WA 98626
STAFF
Bill Marcum, CEO Julie Rinard, Project Manager Pam Fierst, Office Manager
Help wanted – Really, help!
S
eems not that long ago we were talking jobs, jobs, jobs... more businesses, more manufacturing, more entrepreneurs. Today, we’re asking, “Where are the people to fill the jobs we have available at our local businesses?” Recently I had the opportunity to speak with Teri, owner of Teri’s Restaurant, Trina of Mill City Grill, Elizabeth at Fiesta Bonita and Mike with Summerland Catering. Each told me they have been running help wanted ads in all the places they know that can drive people looking for work toward employment with them. The effort has produced basically zero interest. I contacted Mike with Summerland Catering about our Pillars of Strength, Business and Education Awards Banquet May 4. We’re expecting 250 people and I would like it to be a sit-down meal. Mike said he did not think he would be able to meet my request due to a lack of staff. He said he sent texts and emails to more than 40 people who had worked for Summerland prior to COVID asking each of them to return to work. He even offered a variety of new or special benefits and only four responded.
k CONTACT US
360-423-8400 kelsolongviewchamber.org To advertise, call Bill Marcum 360-423-8400 or bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org Ad Deadline 20th of Each Month
In a Facebook post recently, I noticed Teri had several positions open. She told me she had not received one response to the jobs posted. I heard the same thing from Trina and Elizabeth. Where are the great workers who were employed by these restaurants 20 months ago? Do they have other jobs? Did they move out of state? Did they decide to not work at all? Retired? Living on unemployment? Talking with business leaders in the transportation arena, like Signature Transport, Lemmons Trucking and even Lowes Home Improvement, they all have the same issue. Plenty of jobs and no one to work. Scott Bailey, regional economist for Washington Employment Security Department, provides labor market updates for Cowlitz County that show there are more jobs than people to work those jobs by a significant number. Apparently, 3,796 less people are working in For more Help Wanted, see page 2
Help Wanted from page 1
Cowlitz County than pre-COVID. Local businesses struggling to meet the needs of their customers is a major concern in all areas of our county. The restaurants I mentioned at the beginning of this column can now seat their restaurants to 100 percent capacity; however, they do not have the staff to wait on customers, cook the meals, serve the diners and clean the dishes. The shortage is forcing many of them to run at 50-70 percent of capacity. For many of our local businesses this is a scary situation that must be corrected. They cannot continue business this way. What’s the answer? Better pay? Better hours? Health benefits?
Keep up with the latest on your heart.
peacehealth.org/hearthealth
2 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
The people I have talked with are all trying to provide all three options and still cannot find people to even interview. Nearly every business I go into today has a sign reading something like this... Please be supportive, friendly and most of all, patient.
Kelso Longview Elks 900 Ash St. Kelso Friday, March 25, 2022 11:45 a.m. -1:30 p.m. $25 advance/$35 at door
Please join us for our first 2022 Quarterly! Hear from Longview and Kelso School Superintendents on the challenges of educating your kids, keeping them engaged and budgeting during these very uncertain times. Kelso Schools Superintendent Mary Beth Tack
Plus: Construction Projects, 2022 Replacement Levy, Mask Mandates and much more!
Longview Schools Superintendent Dan Zorn
Register at www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Up, Up, And Away Presented by Lower Columbia Professionals Lower Columbia Professionals raised over $4,000 for scholarships at this first-time event. Attendees enjoyed a spaghetti dinner, drinks and live music by Cloud Shine. They gave generously and the balloon pop and ring toss were entertaining. Scholarship deadline is March 31. Local high school seniors are encouraged to apply for our $1,000 scholarships now. Find the application at https:// cope917538.typeform.com/ KLCCScholarship
4 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce Julie Rinard
Project Manager
Lisa Straughan, President Express Employment Professionals Marlene Johanson, President Elect Heritage Bank Marc Silva, Vice President Columbia Bank Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank Chris Roewe, Past President Woodford Commercial Real Estate Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching David Cuddihy The Daily News Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD Jason Gentemann Foster Farms Rich Gushman Gibbs & Olson Keenan Harvey City Council, Kelso Nick Lemiere Edward Jones Cherelle Montanye St. John/PeaceHealth John Paul KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The WAVE Bruce Pollock Bicoastal Media Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council Michael Vorse Minuteman Press John Jabusch Cowlitz County Commissioner
Supporting local business right here where we live
T
his is a great time of year to look at Chamber member benefits, all included with your membership dues. Let us know how we may support your business.
You can be a radio star! We interview Chamber member guests every week on Your Chamber Connection radio show. We record Wednesday mornings for broadcast the same day at 6 p.m. on BiCoastal Media station KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM. This is your opportunity to put your business in the spotlight. Have you considered a member-to-member discount? We can provide publicity that will drive people to your business. Let us know and we will be happy to talk with you about the possibilities. Around the Chamber email blast is issued Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Members are eager for a quick read about what is happening here. The blasts reach about 3,000 people. Submit your news and we will include your message at no charge, as space permits. Check out our Facebook page and let us know if this is a place you would like to announce a special or promotion. We can assist with graphic design to make your message pop. Ribbon cuttings always draw attention when the Ambassadors show up to celebrate. Let us know if you have moved, expanded, finished a remodel or you are preparing to celebrate a milestone anniversary. We will schedule a ribbon cutting with the Ambassadors and announce your good news. Is your nonprofit holding a fundraiser, recruiting volunteers or experiencing changes? Be sure to let us know. There are many ways we can help you reach people who are eager to support the important work of local nonprofits. Have you checked our website? We list unlimited hot deals and job postings for Chamber members. You also have access to members-only information. Be sure to contact us if you need a log-in name and password. Check out the member categories. Could you benefit from more category listings? We will help people find you by listing your business in up to three categories. Our local radio station partners offer free packages for new Chamber members. Have you taken advantage of this opportunity yet? KLOG, KUKN and 101.5 The Blitz will spotlight your business with a free 60 second commercial that will run for four weeks on all three of their stations. BiCoastal Media will profile your business with a 30 or 60 second commercial. You may choose any one or all five of their radio stations: Rocket 107, Magic 94.5, 1470 KEDO AM, The Peak 98.3 FM and KBAM 1270 AM. These media partners want to welcome you to the Chamber and show you how easy it is to use radio to market your business. We give business referrals every day. Keep us up to date with news about your business and we will be ready to send people your way. Enjoy your membership benefits! Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 5
Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments Bill Fashing
Executive Director
Planning tools for economic development
T
his month I am covering a couple of resources from the U.S. Census Bureau and providing information on the Longview Metropolitan Statistical Area (Cowlitz County). The Community Resilience Estimate (CRE) and the Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS) Explorer are tools developed by the Census to help understand communities including challenges and opportunities the numbers may help to identify. Both products include numbers from 2019.
table is an example of the data available. See the BDS homepage for more information.
According to the Census Bureau CRE program, “Community resilience is the capacity of individuals and households to absorb, endure, and recover from the health, social, and economic impacts of a disaster such as a hurricane or pandemic. When disasters occur, recovery depends on the community’s ability to withstand the effects of the event. In order to facilitate disaster preparedness, the Census Bureau has developed new small area estimates, identifying communities where resources and information may effectively mitigate the impact of disasters”. Risk factors from 2019 include: Income to Poverty Ratio Single or Zero Caregiver Household Crowding Communication Barrier Households without Full-time, Year-round Employment Disability No Health Insurance Age 65-plus No Vehicle Access No Broadband Internet Access
2019 appears to be a strong year for manufacturing starts. The numbers indicate a loss of job creation capacity for firms created post Great Recession especially for manufacturing. This loss of economic capacity slowed the community recovery and continues to plague the community as we work to develop our post COVID recovery. Fortunately, the last year of economic activity has seen an influx of new small firms primarily focused on the southern portion of the county but moving north into Longview and Kelso. Explore the BDS website for additional information at https:// www.census.gov/data/data-tools/bds-explorer.html.
Cowlitz County Percentage of residents with three or more resilience factors: 19.34 percent Number of residents with three or more resilience factors: 21,311 Percentage of residents with one to two resilience factors: 47.91 percent Number of residents with one to two resilience factors: 52,809 The resilience factors outlined show that Cowlitz County is not statistically different than the national estimate. The BDS Explorer provides access to tables and charts to compare and rank measures of business dynamism. The following 6 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
As a bonus, the following demographic profile has been For more CWCOG, see page 7
CWCOG from page 6
included for your use. The estimates in the provided profile will vary from other sources and do not represent the latest estimate for population and other factors.
Business Finance Resources Revolving Loan Fund – Alternative Lender The Longview Revolving Loan Fund has funds to lend! Serious borrowers facing lending challenges should apply. Funds can be used to save or create new jobs, spur development, and strengthen the economy. If your business is located in Longview, needs additional funding and/or has been turned down by a traditional lender, please contact me at the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments via email at bfashing@cwcog.org or via phone at 360-355-0344. The Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments (CWCOG),
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ b0341fa9b237456c9a9f1758c15cde8d/Total
in partnership with the City of Longview, received CARES Act funding through the Economic Development Administration to supplement the existing Longview Revolving Loan Fund. Loans are for new and existing firms desiring to initiate or expand operations in the community. Since the program’s inception, over $2.2 million has worked to create and retain over 630 jobs in the community. A complete application and supporting materials are needed for consideration. The Longview Revolving Loan Fund application and program guidelines are available online at www.cwcog.org or by request at:
Consistent Courteous Complete Title and Escrow Services
CWCOG at Administration Annex / 207 North 4th Ave., Kelso, WA 98626. Questions may be directed to me at 360-577-3041 or via email to bfashing@cwcog.org.
Lower Columbia Investment Network Local Investment Networks present an opportunity to bring residents of a community together around a common goal: to build wealth by keeping local capital rooted in the local economy. The CWCOG is working with residents, investors, local business owners, and other stakeholders to start a Local Investment Network within the region. Interested in local investment opportunities? Click here to
1425 Maple Street • Longview, WA 98632
360.425.2950
www.cascade-title.com
download the Local Investor Application. Have an investment opportunity for others to consider? Click here to download the Business Opportunity Submission Form. Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 7
Workforce Southwest Washington Darcy Hoffman Director of Business Services
Grants available for employee training leading to quality jobs and workforce equity
P
eople are your organization’s greatest asset and investing in their training is a powerful demonstration of how much you value them. Today’s employees want to work for an organization that will provide opportunities for them to learn, grow and advance. Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) has grant funds available to reimburse companies for training their existing employees. We are looking for companies that share our dedication to equity. Funds are available to manufacturing, healthcare, construction, technology, and professional, scientific and technical service companies. The grants should be used to enhance worker skills in high-demand jobs, as defined by WSW. If your company is not in one of these sectors, but the positions you wish to fill fall into a high-demand occupation, you may still be eligible. Businesses, especially small- and medium-sized traded sector companies and those owned by women, Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) community members and veterans are encouraged to apply and will be awarded extra points. You determine the training based on your company and your employee’s needs. Organizations have used these funds for a variety of trainings. For example, your company purchased new manufacturing equipment and your team needs to learn how to use it, or an employee needs leadership training to learn how to be a supervisor so she can be promoted, etc. If you’re not sure where to start, please reach out to me or any member of WSW’s Business Services team for assistance. WSW prioritizes investments that advance workforce equity, ensuring the public workforce system focuses on equitable support of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian and other People of Color and historically excluded communities, and is inclusive of companies that demonstrate commitment to providing quality jobs. The Quality Jobs Initiative was developed with belief in the value of work and the shared benefits afforded to workers, businesses and communities through good, high-quality jobs — ones with competitive wages and benefits, predictable hours, necessary training, and opportunities for advancement — that enable workers to be self-sufficient and adequately care for themselves and their families. In support of the Quality Jobs Initiative, WSW will invest in training with companies that are making local jobs better for women and individuals from historically excluded communities and are able to demonstrate the actions they have taken in support of equity, diversity and inclusion. 8 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Ensuring your employees have the skills to support and help your business grow is vital to your company’s competitiveness. Investing in training helps your workers gain skills to keep or advance in a job, your company saves money by retaining a valued employee, and the investments improve our community’s longterm growth and competitiveness. Your application must showcase training that is designed to increase the competitiveness of your company and your workforce. •
The grant funds should be used to implement a career path and training strategy that supports the retention and advancement of your existing workers.
•
Chosen training should be of high value and will warrant a pay increase for participating employees.
•
At least 20 percent of employees should represent populations such as Black, Indigenous, Asian, Latinx and other people from historically excluded communities and immigrants, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+), women, veterans, and people with disabilities.
Please review the application instructions, especially employer and employee eligibility, thoroughly. Grant funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and applying soon is encouraged. Award amounts will depend on the size of your company, availability of funds, and quality of training proposed including training outcomes (pay increases and advancement opportunities). Contact WSW’s business services team with questions and to request an application. •
Manufacturing: Alyssa Joyner, senior project manager –
For more WSW, see page 9
WSW
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Business Online Banking helps meet the needs of business owners, regardless of the company’s size. In addition to accessing accounts 24/7, business owners can also add users and customize permission levels for employees who manage accounts. We look forward to expanding our business services soon to provide even more ways to serve our business members’ needs!
from page 8
manufacturing, 503-410-0408, ajoyner@workforcesw.org •
Healthcare, Technology, Professional Services: Sean Moore, senior project manager – healthcare and technology, 360-762-8569, smoore@workforcesw.org
•
Construction and other industries: Darcy Hoffman, director of business services, 360-608-4949, dhoffman@ workforcesw.org
When submitting your application, please connect with WSW’s business team to ensure your application is completed fully and properly to avoid delays in processing. We’re here to help. Proposals will be reviewed and funded as they are received, so submit your application early. Grants will be awarded until funding runs out. Applications are due by June 30. Darcy Hoffman, director of business services, for Workforce Southwest Washington can be reached at dhoffman@ workforcesw.org, 360-608-4949. Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) is the Local Workforce Development Board (LWDB) designated by federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) legislation to oversee the public workforce system in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum and Clark counties. WSW is a nonprofit organization and funds services that help individuals gain skills to obtain good-paying jobs or advance in their careers and help companies recruit, train and retain workers. Since 2003, WSW has invested more than $120 million in Southwest Washington. Learn more at www. workforcesw.org.
Lynn Ruddell, Commercial Lending
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FibreFamily Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 9
Business Toolbox Jerry D. Petrick
Certified Business Adviser
Planning succession for your business
W
hether it is the pandemic, fatigue, retirement, or just wisdom; understanding, “What happens next?” for your business after you leave is important and there is no time like NOW to plan the succession of your business. I want to introduce you to or remind you of the importance of planning for the succession of your business – in other words, what happens after you are no longer involved in the operation and/or ownership of your business. The following are some ideas, suggestions, and considerations my clients have found helpful and valuable in working with me on planning the successful succession of their businesses. THE NEED FOR SUCCESSION PLANNING •
10,000 people a day are turning 65 years old in the United States
•
Baby Boomers own 65 percent of the private businesses in the U.S. ■ Boomers were born from 1946 to 1964, so currently are 58 to 76 years old
•
Typically, 75 percent of an owner’s net worth is in the business
•
76 percent of Baby Boomers plan to transition their ownership over the next 10 years (representing 4.5 million businesses and $10 trillion in wealth)
•
Transitions to next generation of family-owned businesses:
It Can Wait – feeling healthy, good economic times, best profits ever, industry growing, management handling day to day with lots of free time Key Issue to Remember – The ownership WILL transition someday, either by design or default. Not planning for transition will certainly cause loss in value – and likely considerable heartache. INITIAL STEPS OF A SUCCESSION PLAN Here are the steps we walk through to help merge your desires and hopes with the current realities to develop options and a path forward for the best results. •
Define and align goals ■ Establish timeline, vision of your desired outcome ■ Transition Readiness Assessment and Owner Interview Worksheet (These are tools we use to help guide you to and through this process)
•
Business assessment ■ Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT), Strategic Plan, five-year financial plan ■ Management team abilities and bench strength
•
Business valuation ■ Formal or informal ■ Value enhancement options
•
Personal financial planning
■ 30 percent to the second generation
•
Exit options analysis
■ 12 percent to the third generation
•
Defining action plans – (goal without a plan is a dream/wish)
■ 3 percent to the fourth generation Note: The above data were provided by the Exit Management Institute ISSUES CAUSING OWNERS TO DELAY SUCCESSION
EXIT QUADRANT CHART Adapted from “Exiting Your Business, Protecting Your Wealth” by John Leonett
FINANCIAL READINESS
Afraid – lots of positive and negative outcomes and issues can be identified, complex issues to deal with for the first time, value may be less than needed, don’t want to deal with which child to put in leadership, lots of horror stories from friends who sold, too many lawyers! Trapped – still on the line of credit, can’t choose the leader amongst the kids, a third-party sale may cause loss of employment for dedicated, long-term employees, key customer relationships are personal What’s Next? – no hobbies or outside interests, friends and social circles are all related to the business, no more fishing and hunting trips paid for by the company, “I am what I do?” 10 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
MENTAL READINESS For more Petrick see page 11
Petrick from page 10
It is vital to understand yourself and your situation REALISTICALLY! The emotional/mental transition out of/from your business will likely be among the most impactful events in your life. Be wise and kind to yourself as you contemplate your succession.
■ Positive sales trends • Customers, markets, product lines ■ Healthy gross profit margins • Cost reductions and price increases possible
EXIT OPTIONS TO CONSIDER Family members
■ Low concentration of major accounts
Management buyout
■ Selling and administrative costs that can be diluted with growth
•
Can gift or grant stocks
•
Consider impact on children that are not in the business
•
Assure financial reporting, operating systems, advisory board is in place to improve likelihood of ongoing business solvency
•
■ Current accounts receivable and accounts payable ■ Fixed assets reconciled and clean ■ No shareholder receivables or loans
■ Typical note from seller will be five to seven years with payments from company cash flow •
■ Operating expenses properly accrued
Consider three- to five-year partial buyback, staying in control to keep an outside sale as an option (consider your desire/ability to work as an advisor/consultant/marketer for the business)
• Warranties, commissions, inventory/accts receivable reserves ■ Long term debt coverage reasonable with cash flow
Other shareholders •
Price and terms typically in the shareholder agreement
•
Consider strengths of remaining shareholders prior to finalizing transaction
■ Debt to equity in acceptable range – 2.0 or less •
Normalize financials for presentation to buyers
•
Purpose is to give the true cash flow and equity positions of the company for valuation purposes
Third Party •
Entrepreneur, competitor, strategic buyer, private equity
•
Usually use a business broker for under $5 million of value (10 percent fee) or merger and acquisition firm for over $5 million of value (4-6 percent fee)
■ Remove personal expenses ■ Building rent at market rates ■ Salaries for owners at market rates for equal responsibilities ■ Personal assets removed from balance sheet
Employee Buyout – Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or Worker Owned Co-op Recapitalization (partial sale to gain capital to fund growth) Liquidation HOW BUSINESSES ARE VALUED •
■ Off balance sheet or fully depreciated assets are identified ■ Interest on shareholder loans at market rates PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNING •
■ What salary and distributions do you need prior to the sale?
•
Asset Approach ■ Net book value, market value
•
Valuation Discounts ■ Minority/restricted share classes
•
Value Ranges: Fire sale vs. strategic sale
IMPORTANCE OF STRONG FINANCIALS •
Cash flow drives the valuation ■ Free cash flow determines Return On Investment (ROI) and possible payment plans
•
■ What value do you need to receive for the company? ■ What tax planning is needed to receive needed after tax proceeds?
Market Approach ■ Similar businesses, similar market
Key components increase salability
Key next step in the exit planning process ■ How long do you need to work?
Income Approach ■ Multiple times earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) or discretionary earnings
•
Clean Balance Sheet – see it through a “banker’s eyes”
TAX AND ESTATE PLANNING •
S Corp and C Corp issues ■ If possible, convert to S Corp to avoid double taxation
•
Capital gains tax rates vs. ordinary tax rates
•
Inheritance taxes
•
Gifting rules and caps
•
Estate planning trusts etc., etc., etc.!
•
Key – Get the right people on your team! ■ Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner,
For more Petrick see page 12 Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 11
Petrick from page 11
Certified Exit Planning Adviser, Wealth Adviser, Estate Planning Attorney
Service is the difference!
TRUSTED FOR OVER 39 YEARS
LIFE AFTER YOUR EXIT •
No. 1 Deal Killer ■ Not knowing what is next after the deal closes
•
Understand the value you can bring to:
Glenda Beam
Amy Hoyer
Leah White
Carrie Staggs
Steve Quaife
Escrow Officer
Escrow Officer
Escrow Assistant
Escrow Assistant
County Manager
Brittney Rexford Escrow Assistant
Michelle Mortensen
Theresa Campbell
Pam McCormick
Melinda Gottfryd
Jason Hanson
Darren Plank
■ The company you are selling ■ Nonprofit organizations ■ Issues you have passion about •
Establish a plan ■ Looking forward to what’s next will help get through the traumatic change in life after you sell your business
Costs of Not Planning
Policy Typist
Bookkeeper/Recorder Order Desk/Receptionist
Policy Typist
Benefits of Planning
Undervaluation Lower risks Wrong timing
Maximize valuation
One buyer is no buyer
Preserve wealth
Increased taxes
Reduce uncertainty
Leave problems with family
Lower taxes
Possible liquidation
Provide options
Sleepless nights!
Protect legacy
Title Officer
Title Officer
Leah Stanley Title Officer
Breshae Brunette Megan Howerton Title Plant Admin
Most in-depth title plant in the county. Accurate Reliable Timely Locally Owned 1159 14th Avenue , Longview, WA 98632 360.423.5330 www.cowlitztitle.com
Happier stakeholders Peace of mind! There are several factors to consider – you can tap into the experience and perspective of out Washington State University (WSU) Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisers for confidential support for you and your business at no cost to you/your business. This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, certified business adviser, MBA, with the Washington State University Small Business Development Center. Jerry provides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment. He can be reached via email jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org
“If something comes up, I just call my banker and we can figure it out.”
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In addition to our vast experience and customized solutions, we put a lot of heart into helping your one-of-akind business succeed. HeritageBankNW.com/allofus HeritageBankNW.com | 800.455.6126 |
12 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Title Typist
Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC
2022 Small Business
BOOT CAMP Spring Series starts Friday, March 4 Friday Mornings ★ 7:30 am - 9 am American Workforce Group Event Center 1145 14th Ave., Longview
Boardmanship series
March 4 Role of the Board vs the CEO Frank McShane Square Peg Consulting
March 11 Financial Accountability Joy Klein Columbia Bank, Cowlitz County
March 18 Handling Conflict Jennifer Leach Past President Longview School Board
March 25 Working as a Team Frank McShane Square Peg Consulting
April 1 Succession Planning Chris Bailey LCC President
April 8 Facilitating and Leading Meetings (Roberts Rules) Jennifer Leach Past President Longview School Board
$
No pricing change since 2013!
100 Members
★
$
160 Non-Members
Includes up to 4 members of your organization.
leadership 2.0 series Starts in May
Sponsored by:
360-423-8400
www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Kelso Public Schools
Longview Public Schools
Mary Beth Tack
Dan Zorn
Superintendent
Graduation rate goal always '100%'
T
he importance of graduating high school cannot be overstated. Having a high school diploma opens countless doors. Many jobs require at least a high school diploma,
and having one paves the way for college, the military, or trade school. All of which leads to less chance of experiencing unemployment and a greater chance of higher earning potential. For these reasons, and more, one of our most pressing goals in Kelso School District is to have a 100 percent graduation rate. Since 2015, the great efforts by our team working toward this goal have led to rising graduation rates year after year. In 2020, we celebrated as we broke 90 percent. The effects of a global pandemic and over a year of remote learning are visible in our 2021 graduation rate, which dipped to 89.9 percent. Rates across our state and the nation showed similar declines. Regardless, our goal of 100 percent of our students enjoying more options in their life due to earning their high school diploma remains. We continue to put that goal front and center, for our staff and our students. With large posters prominently displayed in every classroom in every school that simply say, “100%” we remind ourselves and our students that every one of them deserves every opportunity for success. #WeAreKelso
Superintendent
Levy balances facility repair with security
A
s mentioned in the February Chamber column, Longview Public Schools will be asking voters to consider a Replacement Capital Projects and Technology Levy this April. Voting begins on April 8 with election day being April 26. In this column, we will explain how the levy is responsive and balanced to the needs and expectations of our community. As we work to move past the pandemic, recover academic achievement, and maintain our schools, it is critical that we plan for the next most immediate 5-10 years to ensure our facilities are in the best shape possible to keep students learning and achieving at high levels in safe and healthy environments, using relevant and current technology. At a time when we are all recovering from the effects of the pandemic, which we sincerely hope is winding down, we understand the concern Longview citizens have about property taxes. If approved, the total locally voted to school tax collections will decrease when compared to 2021 and 2022. We have heard time and again that taxpayers do not want their taxes to go up, so our levy was designed to keep the total local levy collections for our district, less than the previous two years. One of the reasons the district can balance how much the levy asks of taxpayers is because the district has benefited from one-time-only, federal COVID-19 relief funds that allow us to replace expensive HVAC systems using federal, instead of locally voted capital projects, funds. These HVAC system repairs and replacements are needed at every school. The district has been working to fix the systems as it can afford to do so, but the cost is significant. The federal COVID-19 relief dollars are allowing us to ask for less from local taxpayers than we would have without these federal funds, while still meeting critical facility needs. The remaining federal relief dollars we have available are earmarked to support expanded student learning opportunities and social/ emotional supports, maintain needed staffing levels and to help offset other pandemic related expenses. If the levy passes, facility improvements and repairs will be made at all schools and to Memorial Stadium. This balanced approach means each school and every child will benefit from the replacement levy in some way. Our students and community will also benefit as Memorial Stadium is slated to get a new turf soccer/football field, a new running track, safety upgrades and the stadium structure will get long overdue repairs. The replacement levy balances our need to address facility repair and update needs while also improving the safety and security of each of our schools by providing additional security controls. Our school entrances will be updated to better manage access at For more Longview Schools, see page 19
14 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
City of Longview
City of Kelso
MaryAlice Wallis
Mike Karnofski
Mayor
Looking at city vision with eyes wide open
I
love learning new things, and just recently I learned of a concept that has blown me away.
My eyesight has been poor most of my life, and I joined the world of “glasses-wearers” in the second grade. Brown square frames were not only unpopular, but also downright uncomfortable. I couldn’t wait to swap those awful plastic gadgets for contact lenses; but it would be many years and countless “faddish” frames later until I could enter that world. Who remembers the gigantic swoop-stem frames from the ‘80s? During a recent visit to my eye doctor, I learned how intelligent one’s vision can be. As a person with bi-focal vision (near and farsighted issues), I found out that by using the dominant strength of the best eye for near-sightedness and combining that with the dominant strength of the opposite far-sighted eye, contact lenses can be made to create what is called “mono-vision” or one-vision. I was initially very hesitant to try out this new-to-me concept. How could both eyes see the faraway distance things and the close-up reading things all at once? What if it didn’t work? What if it ruined my vision forever? But – what if it did work? What if I could bypass bifocals and really have mono-vision? I decided to give it a go. I placed those thin plastic disks into each eye and I was astounded! Taking a strength and a weakness and making a strength…clarity in vision magnified! The best part of learning, for me, is applying and sharing. I have thought about this mono-vision concept many times over the past month, and I’m starting to use the concept as a factor filter for the many opportunities in my daily life. For example: How do I apply the strength of a certain policy and filter it through its potential weaknesses to make it a strength? How can one’s weakness be strengthened by another’s strength, or one’s strength be strengthened more by another’s weakness? How can “mono-vision” occur in a board, commission, council or business setting? Longview City Council will have the opportunity to test out our own “mono-vision” this year given two unique circumstances that occurred in February: 1.
2.
We said farewell to Councilmember Christine Schott with gratitude for her thoughtful contributions to our council team and wish her well in her new journey. This departure leaves a gap, and a council subcommittee will be tasked with the focus of setting parameters to guide the council in the selection of a new member within the next 90 days. Applications will be available soon. During our recent yearly retreat, council discussed at length
For more Longview, see page 19
Mayor
To repair or to not repair city streets
A
t a recent Kelso City Council meeting we heard a presentation on “City of Kelso Pavement Management Program”. A pavement management program reviews the present condition of the City’s roads and streets, determines the maintenance required for preservation or rehabilitation, and creates options and costs ranging from localized maintenance and preservation of roads and streets in good and very good condition to total reconstruction of roads and streets in poor/ very poor condition. Kelso has 65 miles of pavement which is 9.5 million square feet. This equals 124 football fields. Forty-seven percent of the roads and streets are considered arterial and collector. This is an important designation because these streets are generally eligible for federal and state funding for maintenance and improvement. Fifty-three percent of the streets are designated local and are generally not eligible for state and/or federal funding. Seventyseven percent of the streets are considered in good or very good condition. Most of these streets are in the arterial or collector category. The remaining 23 percent of the streets are in poor or very poor condition and are essentially all in the local category. The current backlog to improve the poor/very poor streets is $14.4 million. Kelso was presented with four alternatives to consider. The first two: 1) Maintain our current maintenance program and budget of $500,000/year for the next five years; or 2) Maintain the current condition of all roads, which requires a budget averaging $788,000/year for the next five years. In both alternatives the maintenance backlog to improve poor/very poor streets increases to more than $21 million in five years. The other two alternatives are: 3) Stop the backlog from increasing (hold it at $14 million), which costs an average of $2.6 million/year for the next five years; or 4) Eliminate the backlog which costs an average of $5.16 million/year for the next five years. None of these alternatives is very appealing. Certainly alternatives 1, 2 and 3, will not makes citizens living on roads designated local happy since their roads may not be improved for a while. The Public Works department will be bringing a recommendation to the Council for consideration. It will be a difficult decision for the Council. Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 15
Lower Columbia College Chris Bailey President
Dual Credit: Saving money and providing a more efficient pathway to college
B
y now, nearly everyone understands the additional earnings potential that comes with a college degree or credential. What if you could gain up to two years of
college credits, tuition free, while still in high school? Well, those opportunities exist for current high school students in Washington state, thanks to legislatively approved dual credit programs! So, what is dual credit? Students who take a class, either in the high school, skill center or at a college, which has the potential
College in the High School. Running Start allows high school juniors and seniors to attend the college tuition-free and have the credits count for both high school and college credit. College credits are paid for by the high school, saving families money as students begin their college careers. CTE Dual Credit allows high school students to earn college credit in their high school career and technical education (CTE) classes without leaving their high school campus. Tuition is free and courses are located at a student’s high school. Credits do apply only to professional-
to earn both high school and college credit, are enrolled in a
technical certificates or degrees. Lastly, College in the High School
dual credit class. These classes provide many benefits to students,
programs provide college-level academic courses to ninth, 10th,
including increasing the likelihood of graduating and continuing
11th and 12th grade students. Courses are taught at the high
on to postsecondary education, lowering the cost of education
school, by high school teachers, with college curriculum, college
and creating pathways into the workforce. According to the
textbooks, and oversight by college faculty and staff. When
SBCTC dual credit guidebook, “students who earn college credit
enrolled in College in the High School programs, students pay
in high school are more likely to graduate from high school and
fees, but typically far less than regular college tuition.
enroll and persist in postsecondary education. Dual credit can also lower the costs of higher education for students and families
At LCC, 32 students were awarded dual CTE credit for taking high-school based CTE classes during 2020-21. Running Start
by decreasing the amount of time needed to complete a college
head count at LCC was at 527 in 2019-20 and 508 in 2020-21. Out
major and earn a degree.” Providing dual credit opportunities
of the 508 LCC Running Start students in 2020-21, 111 students
to students also benefits society. As stated on the Washington
received both an associate degree and high school diploma at the
Student Achievement Council website, “an educated workforce is
same time through Running Start, saving those students both
vital for a prosperous society. In Washington, nearly 70 percent of
time and money!
all projected job openings require at least some education beyond high school. Two-thirds require a certificate, associate degree, or higher” WSAC. Lower Columbia College (LCC) provides three dual credit options to students: Running Start, CTE Dual Credit and
16 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
College credits granted to high school students completing their high school degrees, tuition-free! Dual credit programs are both efficient and low cost. For high school students, and for their parents, dual credit programs at Lower Columbia College are clearly “The Smart Choice.”
rve Reserly! Ea
2022 VISITOR & MEMBERSHIP GUIDE
E DEAARLY Feb DLINE ruar
Let visitors and businesses know about you!
Save y 26 12,000 visitors will come into the Visitor Center… on rates b1 0 elow % and they are looking for YOU!
✔ Used year round by hundreds of local and out-of-area companies. ✔ A resource guide for the community.
Space is limited – Call today! 360-423-8400
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Mechanical Specifications
Vertical 1.83”w x 4.9”h Horizontal 3.75”w x 2.375”h 1/8 Page
Electronic Files • Should be emailed to bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org • Please include your company name and publication in the subject line. Logos, Images, Photos • Formats: High resolution JPG, EPS, TIFF, PDF • Resolution must be 300 dpi. Images from the internet cannot be used. Full Files • PDF format, output to High Quality Print setting. Images for Scanning • Photographs (up to 8.5” x 11”), stationery, menus, business cards, etc. • Artwork for scanning must be clear and unmarked. • Digital artwork is preferred as this will give a higher quality result.
1.83”w x 2.375”h 1/16 Page
Kelso L ongview 2020 Vi sitor Gu ide
& Cham ber Dire ctory
Years La
ter
MOUN
Explos
T ST. H
ive Beau
Learning
ELENS
ty
Awesom
e Visits
Labora
tory
www.k elsolong
viewcha
mber.org
If you have any questions regarding acceptable artwork, please call 360-423-8400 or email bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org
105 Minor Road Kelso, WA 98626
360-423-8400 www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Shop Local
LONGVIEW
CENTRALIA
1413 Commerce
1530 S. Gold St.
360-575-9804
360-807-1211
Longview
Longview Schools
from page 15
from page 14
the vision for the City of Longview over the next five years, decade, and half century. A council subcommittee was assigned the task to begin the framework for visioning for Longview. How do we make a strength from the best and the weakest parts of Longview? It is so exhilarating to be a part of creating the vision for our city, and there’s no doubt that the council will be successful in this plan. How will you “mono-vision” your life in 2022? You never know until you give it a try!
primary entrances, and improvements will be made to better secure the perimeters of our campuses and buildings. While we have made some improvements towards securing our buildings more needs to be done. The safety of our students and staff remains one of our highest priorities. If you would like more information about the replacement levy, please visit www.longviewschools.com/levy2022 or call 360-575-7016. We would be happy to schedule a presentation for any community group who is interested.
Your Locally Owned and Operated Community Bank • Checking, Savings and CDs • Business Loans • Construction Loans • SBA Loans 729 Vandercook Way, Longview
(360) 414-4101 www.twincitybank.com
There’s a Difference. Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 19
Cowlitz County Commissioners Dennis Weber
County Commissioner, District 2
Projects near completion as others fire up
C
hronic Homeless Alternative Project – Commissioners directed the Department of Human Services to send out a Request for Proposal for a Chronic Homeless Alternative Project last month, culminating a multi-year collaboration with the City of Longview to replace the unhosted illegal campground currently near the city shops on Alabama Street. The proposal reflects Cowlitz County values regarding services to the homeless with multiple disabilities that create barriers to living indoors. The request is to offer treatment for mental health, substance use, and physical disorders along with intentional housing readiness training in exchange for a safe, secure, and clean-living environment including a transitional “tiny home” alternative, a Good Neighbor Code of Conduct, and financial contributions appropriate to income levels. The County will also join the cities in adopting a camping ordinance to prohibit the abuse of public spaces for illegal camping. The expectation is that a coalition of service providers will join to offer proposals for the City and County to consider later this spring. This would be a one-year pilot project funded with document-recording fees levied by the state for such purposes. Major Transportation Improvement Milestones – The Commissioners recently approved an updated six-year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) that not only expands our road maintenance program but also responds to weather-related emergency repairs and major new construction. Among various projects receiving funding from Cowlitz County:
5.
Industrial Way/Oregon Way intersection improvements (IWOW) Negotiations and design changes continue for the $100 million as local industries and government insist on appropriate access to major employers without forcing logging trucks through residential areas.
6.
Beech Street project recently completed by Longview received $500,000 from our REDF.
7.
The Southwest Regional Airport in Kelso also received $500,000 in REDF funds for critical fuel tank improvements.
8.
In addition, the Port of Longview’s Industrial Railroad project received $1.5 million in REDF money from the County.
9.
Finally, the City of Kelso’s recently completed West Main/ Catlin Realignment received $320,000 from the REDF. (Note: The REDF is a portion of the state’s sales tax collected locally for boosting economic development since Cowlitz County was identified as an “economically distressed county” in 2002. Since then, nearly $30 million have been provided by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to a variety of jobcreating projects.)
American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) – Cowlitz County, its businesses, and its residents continue to benefit from the federal government’s unprecedented efforts to provide relief from the impact of COVID-19.
1.
Culvert replacement, an on-going program to comply with regional fish recovery plans in addition to responding to weather-related failures (i.e., Pleasant Hill Road near Castle Rock’s Huntington Avenue/I-5 interchange, upper Rose Valley Road, Wren/White/Delameter Roads)
2.
Replacement of the 1919 Rocky Point Half-Bridge for N. Pacific Avenue over the BNSF mainline. A $4 million contract is being awarded to replace the narrow, aging structure (mostly funded by state and federal grants).
3.
Woodland’s Exit 21 Improvements (state Route 503/I-5) has received a Rural Economic Development Fund grant (REDF) from the county to provide $2.6 million toward a major redesign and capacity improvement in collaboration with Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the City of Woodland.
4.
Water/Sewer Infrastructure Improvements: Federal ARPA rules Acquisition of a railroad bank/bike/hiking trail as a gift this provide funds for expanding and improving water and sewer spring from Patriot Rail consisting of the old Weyerhaeuser systems. The BOCC approved $6.3 million in such projects for Rail right-of-way from Ocean Beach Highway to Ostrander County utilities in Ryderwood, Toutle, Ostrander, and Camelot. Road. Local governments receiving the right-of-way include Cowlitz County and the cities of Longview and Kelso. We Rent and Utility Relief: With emergency rules restricting rent will use a local 501c3 charity to facilitate the transfer. This evictions during most of the pandemic, the BOCC has approved project is being coordinated through the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum For more Commissioners, see page 21 Council of Governments.
20 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Public Transit: Federal operating subsidies for public transit will enable River City Transit (RCT) to double the number of covered bus shelters in the Kelso-Longview urban area. Additional state funding will also enable the agency to operate a one-year pilot project extending bus service to Lexington. Cost estimates are being developed by City of Longview engineers. (RCT is operated by Longview under an agreement with the County and the City of Kelso with funding from the Cowlitz Transit Authority, recipient of revenue from a special voter-approved sales tax levied in the urban area.) Firefighter First Responders: At the request of Cowlitz County fire districts, the BOCC has awarded $600,000 in ARPA funds for needed programs. The districts are constrained in their ability to respond to COVID-19 because their property taxing authority cannot increase more than 1 percent each year.
Commissioners from page 20
nearly $17 million in relief payments for those falling behind in their rent and utilities payments. Most recently, ARPA funding coming through the state of Washington accounted for $9.4 million. Administering the rent and utility relief program was undertaken through an agreement with the Lower Columbia Community Action Council (CAP) whose long history of working with low-income families made them well-qualified. The Cowlitz County PUD and city utilities also strongly support the CAP program. They and landlords receive the funds directly. Small Business Assistance: Another $6 million in small business grants from federal COVID relief dollars was distributed to local small businesses during the first two years of the pandemic. Again, the County worked with another organization to administer this program: the Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC). New Leaders Join the County Family – As you learned earlier, the BOCC has a new commissioner, John Jabusch, who was appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee. His strong experience as a small
businessman has proven invaluable in our on-going discussions over federal and state rules and regulations and personnel issues. Jabusch grew up in Rose Valley, graduating from Kelso High School. He now represents the 3rd District from Upper Rose Valley to Toutle and Silver Lake, Castle Rock to Ryderwood; west Longview from Columbia Valley Gardens to Stella, and Willow Grove to Mill Creek. Another recent hire is Nicole Tideman, our new risk manager. A lawyer by training, Tideman lived in Longview when her father was a school superintendent. Her legal expertise has been invaluable as the County is often named in civil lawsuits and she has forged a strong working relationship with our own lawyers from the County’s prosecuting attorney’s office. Finally, we have a new director of public defense, Ian Maher. A graduate of R.A. Long High School, Maher grew up in Cowlitz County where his father served as court commissioner before retiring. Maher joined the department almost eight years ago. His team of lawyers provides representation for defendants who are not able to afford their own lawyers in criminal proceedings. Please welcome John, Nicole, and Ian.
M M
L IVE p e rfo rma nc e se rie s f or y ou n g fa mil mi l i es !
L E L A E H A C H II C
E N L E N L L A A L
H H A A R R R R II S S O O N N
with Julianne Johnson
Saturday, April 2, 2022 at 7:30PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 20, 2022 AT 2PM Heroic deeds and jolly adventures! The exuberant tale of intrepid Robin Hood and his Merry Men, who are ever jauntily escaping from the clutches of the ill-disposed Sheriff of Nottingham.
Welcome back community favorites Michael Allen Harrison and Julianne Johnson! Delivering great contemporary music filled with jazz, blues, and pop influences, Michael’s music appeals to all ages and delivers music to the heart. Tickets: $30- $35/17 & under: $20
Columbia Theatre Longview Box Office: 360.575.8499/ www.columbiatheatre.com
CHAMBER DISCOUNT! 20% off Adult Gold with code word: chamber1
Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 21
Longview Downtowners Lindsey Cope
President; also Vice President, Cowlitz Economic Development Council; facilitator Kelso Business and Community Association
Workshops help business owners plan
C
owlitz Economic Development Council The Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC) has been awarded a grant from the Washington State
Microenterprise Association for our ongoing business education workshops with Lower Columbia College and the Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments (CWCOG). Registration is open for our Developing Marketing Content and Strenths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis and Business Planning workshops. These are open to anyone for any kind of existing or start-up business. Developing Marketing Content Workshop: In-person March
First, we hope you will join us and Realty One Pacifica Group March 5 to clean up downtown Longview. Realty One Pacifica Group hosts this event. If you want to join show up with a trash bag and a grabber to help clean up. We hope you will also join us for Shamrock Saturday March 12. Participating businesses will have a passport program like the recent Galentine’s event and will have a hidden shamrock within their business. Each hidden shamrock will contain a letter that will complete a secret phrase. Returned passports will then be entered into a raffle for gift cards and cash prizes from participating downtown businesses. We hope you will be feeling lucky for
8 and March 29, from 9 to 11 a.m. with online work inbetween
Shamrock Saturday 2022. A huge thank you to Britney Collings of
weeks. Advertising and marketing are a constant struggle that
Jade Ann Clothing for taking the lead on this event.
requires both creative skills and psychological analysis of a target audience. This workshop will introduce simple tools and techniques to help small business owners create effective marketing content. Register is $25 at bit.ly/lccMarketingContent SWOT Analysis and Business Action Plan: In-person April 12 and May 3, from 9 to 11 a.m. Effective business management requires constant review of all aspects of business operations. Using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats method helps business leaders analyze and develop an effective action plan for improving productivity and increasing revenue. Registration cost
March 17 will be our monthly Longview Downtowners meeting. Details of the delivery of the meeting will be announced shortly. We are hoping to return to an in-person meeting this month. March 26 – Shop Local Saturday downtown Longview. Join us for a fun day of shopping and enjoying our lovely downtown. You can find specific information and specials on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/downtownlongviewwa under events. Don’t forget to eat local, drink local, shop local, shop downtown Longview.
is $25. Email nrichie@lowercolumbia.edu to be added to the registration list. Preregistration is required. Space is limited. Scholarships are
Kelso Business and Community Association (KBCA) If you are interested in the economic and community
available. Contact me at cope@cowlitzedc.com or 360-560-3286.
development of Kelso, we hope you will join us on the fourth
Save the Date: Lower Columbia Investment Network (LCIN)
Thursday of the month as we discuss initiatives to bring life to
Night is scheduled for March 31 at 5:30 p.m. The LCIN is
our beloved Kelso. This spring we are registering to participate in
a partnership between the CWCOG, CEDC, and regional
the Growing Vibrant Communities within the America in Bloom
stakeholders to introduce existing and potential businesses to local
program. The development of this program over the next year
investors. This is an invitation only event. If you are interested in
will allow us to pursue full America in Bloom like our northern
presenting a project or learning about projects, please contact me at
neighbors in Castle Rock. Meeting information can be found on
cope@cowlitzedc.com or 360-560-3286.
Facebook at www.facebook.com/kelsobca
Downtown Longview is kicking into the spring with three blooming events 22 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Keep your eyes peeled for the announcement of our spring cleanup day and an upcoming social event. All are welcome.
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
Look Who Joined in February Big Dog Janitorial, Inc.
Jon Shaylor 179 Cranberry Drive Castle Rock, WA 98611 360-518-6630 bigdogjanitorial@email.com
InRoads Federal Credit Union Aimee Thompson 1720 St Helens Street St Helens, OR 97051 503-366-6369 aimee.thompson@inroadscu.org
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 Basic • $275 or $26 per month Bronze • $500 or $46.66 per month Silver • $1,000 or $86.33 per month Gold • $2,500 or $211.33 per month Platinum • $5,000 or $416.66 per month Diamond Club • $10,000 or $834 per month Nonprofit • $180 or $18 per month
1157 3rd Avenue, Suite 218
1157 Longview, 3rd Avenue, WA Suite 98632 218 1157 3rd360.952.3100 Avenue, Suite 218 Longview, WA 98632 Longview, WA 98632 www.amadaseniorcare.com 360.952.3100 360.952.3100 www.amadaseniorcare.com www.amadaseniorcare.com Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 23
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Calendar MARCH
APRIL
2
4 6
3 4 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 22 23 25
Education Foundation, 8:30am, Zoom Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Chamber Ambassadors, 7:30am, Columbia Bank Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Legislative Briefing, 7am, Zoom Business After Hours, Center for Constructive Resolutions – The Mediation Center, 5:30pm Ribbon Cutting, Iron Ridge, Inc., 11am Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Lower Columbia Professionals, 4pm, Explorer Brewing Co. Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Legislative Briefing, 7am, Zoom Chamber Executive Board, Noon, Mill City Grill Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Get Lucky at Bingo, 5:15pm, American Legion Post 155, Lower Columbia Professionals
8 9 12 13 14 19 20 27
Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Education Foundation, Zoom, 8:30am Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Bourbon, Brews, Blues & BBQ, 6pm, Kelso Longview Elks Lodge, Lower Columbia Professionals Chamber Executive Board, Noon, Mill City Grill Business After Hours, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, 5:30pm Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Ribbon Cutting, Synergy One Lending, 11am Lower Columbia Professionals, 4pm, location TBD Lower Columbia Professionals scholarship committee, 5pm, location TBD Chamber Board, Noon, Mill City Grilll Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 F Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM
Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Chamber Board, Noon, Mill City Grill Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM
Boot Camp Boardmanship Series, 7:30am, American Workforce Group Spring Quarterly Luncheon, 11:45am, Elks Lodge, Kelso Your Chamber Connection radio show, 6pm, KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM
30
Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 25
News & Events
News and events come from our website, press releases, and public information shared with us. To see more visit kelsolongviewchamber.org
Kochprapha named executive director of local United Way organization United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties (UWCWC) has named Sabrina Kochprapha as its new executive director. She succeeds Brooke Fisher-Clark and began on Feb. 15. Fisher-Clark continues to serve United Way as the executive director of WA Imagination Library Expansion.
Kochprapha brings vast experience in strategic community planning, community engagement and public communications. Since 2005, Kochprapha has led and organized nonprofits, public agencies and committees in grassroots advocacy, consensus building and fundraising to improve education, rebuild parks and expand public services. “We are thrilled to have Sabrina join our organization,” said Marlene Johanson, UWCWC Board President. “Sabrina brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will be instrumental in helping United Way deepen its engagement with the community and bring people together.” Kochprapha is taking the reins at a critical time when United Way is sharpening its focus on improving healthcare, education and financial security in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties.
Instruction, which was created solely due the great success of the program in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. Information on UWCWC’s impact on our community, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, the Power of the Purse or the Youth Day of Service can be found at cowlitzunitedway.org.
Applications for City Council being accepted through March 10
The City of Longview will be accepting applications through March 10 at noon to fill a vacancy on the Longview City Council. The person appointed to this unexpired position will serve through Dec. 31, 2023. The qualifications for filling the office of City Council require that the person must be at least 18 years of age and be a registered voter of the city. The applicant must have been a resident of the city (live within the city limits) for a period of at least one year before his or her appointment or election. Click here for an application for City Council Applications may also be picked up from the City Hall Executive For more News and Events, see page 27
“I have a huge appreciation for the power of developing community partnerships to address local challenges,” Kochprapha said. “I am honored to be joining such a wonderful organization.” United Way is committed to improving the lives of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum county residents and provides services to community members and funding to local organizations. This year, UWCWC provided funding for emergency food and shelter; rental, mortgage and utility assistance; food and basic necessities; baby supplies; childcare; kindergarten readiness and many more essential service and programs. UWCWC has upcoming events to engage the community, including the annual Power of the Purse event on March 4, which honors local women in leadership and raises essential funding for programs and services. On April 14, UWCWC is organizing a local Youth Day of Service to educate and engage youth in local community service projects throughout the two counties. UWCWC is also the leading Dolly Parton Imagination Library supporter for the entire state of Washington and is proud to be the catalyst for the soon to be statewide program that directly impacts pre-kindergarten literacy by providing free books to any child in the two-county area by simply signing up. UWCWC’s former Fisher-Clark left in November to take the lead coordinating position for statewide implementation of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library through the Office of Superintendent of Public 26 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
We have what you need for a memorable event! Birthday themes for kids and adults of all ages. Supplies for any occasion: bounce houses, tables, chairs and a popcorn machine. Singing telegrams, balloon arches and other ideas. Let us help you create an event to remember!
3202 Ocean Beach Hwy., Suite 154 Longview, WA 98632
(360) 998-4080
themaineventpartystore.godaddysites.com Sunday and Monday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
News and Events from page 26
Office at 1525 Broadway St., or requested over the phone by calling 360-442-5004. Interviews will be conducted at the City Council’s special meeting on March 15 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. The City Council will appoint the successful candidate subsequent the interview process. About Longview City Council The Longview City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 7 p.m. in the Longview Council Chambers, second floor, 1525 Broadway St. Workshops and other special meetings may be scheduled as needed. Longview is a noncharter code city with a council/manager form of government. This form of government relies on the belief that policy-making and administrative functions should be kept separate. The Council, which determines policy and is politically responsible for its actions, appoints a city manager as the chief administrator. The city manager is responsible for carrying out policies set by the Council, including directing employees and managing City resources to provide City services. Full details of the council/ manager form of government can be found in Chapter 35A.13 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
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The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce would like to THANK the following loyal members for renewing their partnership with us this month. All Out Sewer and Drain Service, Inc Baker Lumber Company, Inc Brusco Tug and Barge, Inc Carl's Towing Service and Repair, Inc Carlson's Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc Coldwell Banker Bain Cole's Appliance Repair Comfort Inn Community Home Health and Hospice DBA Interiors Plus J H Kelly, LLC Life Works Longview Orthopedic Associates, PLLC Longview Public Schools McDonald's of Longview – 38th Avenue Ocean Beach Animal Hospital Pacific Fibre Products, Inc Paperbacks Galore, Inc Real Living The Real Estate Group Somerset Retirement Home and Assisted Living Viking Automatic Sprinkler Company Wasser and Winters Company William (BJ) R. Boatsman
800-309-5211 Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 27
Carey Mackey, Red Canoe Credit Union
Wendy Kosloski, Teague's Interiors
Your Chamber Connection Radio Show Wednesdays at 6 pm KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM
Angela Heinlen, United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties
Contact Julie Rinard at 360-423-8400 or jrinard@kelsolongviewchamber.org to schedule your interview
Radio show host Bill Marcum, Chamber CEO, with Kelly Godden, Axecutioner
Radio show co-hosts Shawn Green, Servpro Longview/Kelso, and Karen Sisson, Lower Columbia Professionals
28 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
David Wasylenko, Hagan Hamilton Insurance Solutions
Date: Thursday, March 17, 2022 Location: American Legion (1250 12th Ave., Longview) Time: Doors open at 5:15 pm (First game starts at 6 p.m.) Cost: $20 for 10 Games and Food Register: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org or call 423-8400
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Get Lucky at our Festive Spring Green Event.
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Tasty Nacho Bar.
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Delicious Green Drink Specials
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Fantastic Game Prizes for Every Game
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Awesome Raffle Prizes and a 50/50 raffle.
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100% of the proceeds from this event goes to the LCP Scholarship Fund for Local Graduating High School Seniors in Cowlitz County.
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Ribbon Cutting
Thank you to these Ambassadors who participated in ribbon cutting celebrations during February! Kelly Godden Specialty Rents & Axecutioner Joy Klein Columbia Bank Nick Lemiere Edward Jones
Welcome New Member
Eric McCrandall Family Health Center
Dunn Maintenance
Carrie Medack Diamond Residential Mortgage Bailey Roberts Fibre Federal Credit Union Shylah Tapani Specialty Rents Pam Whittle Realty One Group Pacifica
Welcome New Member JustWrite Mobile Notary
Welcome New Member
Peoples Injury Network Northwest 30 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Teedara Wolf Cowlitz PUD
Please join us at the Spring Business After Hours Networking Event and
“Grow a Little Goodness” with CCRC – The Mediation Center M~N Tuesday, March 8 5:30-7:30pm
1338 Commerce Ave., Suite D2
(In the basement of the Bower’s Building) Come see how YOU can help support people in conflict in our community reach solutions through mediation.
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Catered treats and local beverages Spring-themed prizes and gifts
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Tickets available at kelsolongviewchamber.org $15 in advance, $25 at the door Parking available in the lot behind the building
Attendees enjoyed good conversation and networking
Business After Hours Hosted by Peoples Injury Network Northwest Peoples Injury Network Northwest hosted Business After Hours and we welcomed them as a new Chamber member. Attendees enjoyed this fun winter event that also supported Summerland Catering, Explorer Brewing Co., The Main Event Party Store and Specialty Rents.
Ambassador Bailey Roberts, Fibre Federal Credit Union, presented raffle winner Traci Wood, Wood and Wood Storage, with a basket of prizes
32 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022
Patrick Armstrong, Peoples Injury Network Northwest, welcomed guests and explained the many services that PINN provides to help people heal and get back to work
Vashti Langford, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Marlene Johanson, Heritage Bank, and Sabrina Kochprapha, United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties
Steve Baker, Explorer Brewing Company, poured beer
Steve Quaife, Cowlitz County Title, and Leanne Quaife
Ambassador Eric McCrandall, Family Health Center, is always ready to help
Summerland Catering Services provided beautiful, delicious food
Kelso Longview Business Connection | March 2022 | 33
2022
February 15: Peoples Injury Network Northwest March 8: CCRC—The Mediation Center April 12: Cowlitz Indian Tribe May 10: Kelso Longview Elks Lodge #1482 June 14: Canterbury Park July 12: Fidelity National Title August 9: The Jewelers Bench, Inc. September 13: Lower Columbia Longshoremen’s Federal Credit Union October 11: Frontier Rehabilitation & Extended Care Center November 8: Stewart Title December 13 Holiday Mixer: Kelso Longview Elks Lodge #1482 Interested in hosting Business After Hours? Contact the Chamber at 360-423-8400 or email jrinard@kelsolongviewchamber.org
Business Connection Advertising Rates Effective August, 2020 The Kelso Longview Business Connection monthly newsletter is published the first of each month, posted electronically on our website and emailed to over 7,000 local business professionals, city and county officials. To be included in this monthly email, call the Chamber office at 360-423-8400. Size 1/16 Page 1/8 Page 1/4 Page 1/2 Page Full Page
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All ads include full color and any design work. Ads may be changed monthly. Deadline is the 21st of the month prior to publication. Digital files: PDF preferred, high resolution JPEG accepted. Non-members of the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce, please add 30% to above rates. To advertise or request additional information, please call 360-423-8400 or contact: CEO Bill Marcum bmarcum@kelsolongviewchamber.org Project Manager Julie Rinard jrinard@kelsolongviewchamber.org
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