Volume 5, No. 9
September 2013
Business Kelso Longview
Connection Chamber of Commerce
Calendar Thursday September 5 – 7:30 a.m.
In healthcare, the supply of trained workers will be 50 percent less than the number of jobs in five out of six occupations.
Ambassador Committee Meeting Canterbury Park
Tuesday September 10 – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Business After Hours RE/MAX • Life Mortgage The Office 842 • Network Homes 842 Washington Way, Longview $15 advance/$20 at door www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Wednesday September 18 – 7:30 a.m. Education Foundation Committee Meeting Monticello Hotel September 18 – Noon Lower Columbia Professionals Meeting Masthead
Thursday September 26 – 5 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Big 5 Sporting Goods Triangle Center
GED is first step for local adults seeking family-wage jobs By Chris Bailey President – Lower Columbia College This summer, Lower Columbia College (LCC) is reaching out to more than 600 adults who began the General Education Development (GED) Testing process at our campus Testing Center but did not complete the five-part test. About 13.5 percent of Cowlitz County adults over age 25 have less than a high school credential. On the plus side, this is an improvement of more than 3 percent in the past decade. There is a direct correlation between educational attainment and poverty levels, unemployment and wages. To benefit both community residents and local workforce needs, LCC has implemented several support systems to help more adults complete
high school studies and beyond. For adults over age 21, the GED Test is the primary vehicle for high school completion. One out of every seven Americans, including 18,000 Washington residents each year, completes high school by earning a GED. Most, 71 percent, continue their education with some level of college studies.
Deadline Looming for GED Testers
The traditional GED paper test is being replaced with a computer version and after December 31, 2013, those who have not passed
Please see GED, page 2
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
GED, from page 1
Local adults, who began the GED Testing process in the past, can contact the LCC Testing Center to complete the program before the deadline. All adults without a high school diploma are strongly encouraged to take this important first step. Contact the Testing Center at 360-442-2580 or ged@lowercolumbia.edu.
all five parts using the paper test will have to start over with the entire test. To help adults complete the paper test before the deadline, LCC will offer Wednesday night GED testing dates starting September 4 through December 12, 2013. Evening testing, from 5 to 9 p.m., will be offered in addition to regular Friday testing dates that take place twice a month during regular Testing Center hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. LCC is the only college in Southwest Washington that offers the evening test time. Any adult from the region is welcome to test at the college. Students have several ways to prepare for the test. They can enroll in Adult Basic Education classes at LCC, either a traditional 10-week quarter or the GED Fast Track option, or they can study on their own. GED textbooks are available through the LCC Bookstore and at the local library or check out the study materials at gedtestingservice.com. LCC also offers several GED sign-up/information sessions where college staff answer questions and assist participants through the GED sign-up process. Sessions take place from 5 to 6 p.m. each Monday in the campus Admissions Center. No pre-registration is needed.
GED Graduates Find Success in College
Some recent examples show it is never too late to earn a GED and that achievement often propels students to success in college studies. Cami Woods left high school in her junior year, married and had three sons before coming to LCC to earn her GED. In 2009, Cami graduated with her Associate in Arts transfer degree and the most prestigious scholarship awarded nationally to community college transfer students. The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship funded $30,000 a year for Cami to pursue her goal of becoming a lawyer. She is currently attending law school at Brigham Young University. Dan Davidson left high school to work in his family’s logging contracting business. Almost 20 years later, he came to LCC to earn his GED and continued on to complete technical training related to his previous work. Even with two decades of experi-
Please see GED, page 3
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
GED, from page 2
to fill them and only 126 qualified science technicians for 650 positions. Even in the field of accounting/bookkeeping, there will be 1,900 qualified workers but nearly 2,500 jobs. In addition to qualifying for more available jobs, students who add a year or more of college to their high school education will earn an additional $3,889 annually for each year of school they complete. For our state, and community, this means additional tax revenue.
ence repairing heavy equipment, Dan discovered he could have saved thousands of dollars over the years in the business if he had completed technical training first. Education Improves Employability and Earnings During 2012, the U.S. unemployment rate for adults without a high school education was 12.4 percent. For those who had completed high school, that number dropped by one-third to 8.3 percent and for those with an associate degree it was even lower, 6.2 percent. The unemployment rate for college graduates with a four-year degree was just 4.5 percent. A college education continues to be an important tool for working adults. In 1973 only 28 percent of jobs required at least an associate degree. By 2015, 66 percent of jobs will require that level of education. This is important for adults who need to earn a family-wage job; it’s also important for the local economy. To support current businesses and industries, and to attract new business, we need to have a skilled work force. Since 2006, our state has been tracking the number of projected jobs available in growing career fields, and the number of workers who will have the education to fill those positions. In the fastest growing industry, healthcare, the supply of trained workers will be 50 percent less than the number of jobs in five out of six occupations, including registered nurses, physical therapists, medical lab technicians and doctors and pharmacists. In Early Childhood Education, there will be an estimated 1,700 jobs but only 437 people with the education
TUNE IN every Wednesday Your Chamber Connection
KEDO AM 1400 – 3 to 4 p.m. Contact the Chamber to schedule YOUR 10-minute business spotlight
Industrial Buildings and Property for lease Ready to move in or build
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Team Bill Marcum, CEO Amy Hallock, Bookkeeper Brooke Fisher, Project Manager
Call Liz Newman
360-673-2325
Kelso Longview Business Connection is published monthly by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce. 1563 Olympia Way • Longview, WA 98632 • 360-423-8400
www.portofkalama.com/ industrial_property
To advertise, call Brooke Fisher, 360-423-8400 ext. 16 or e-mail bfisher@kelsolongviewchamber.org. Ad Deadline: 20th of each month.
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Enjoy a grand After Hours event hosted by four neighboring businesses; Newrock Homes, Life Mortgage, RE/MAX and The Office 842! Enjoy tours, fabulous food & beverage and networking!
Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2013 Location: 842 Washington Way, Longview Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Cost: $15 advance/$20 at door Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Business After Hours
Mega-tailgate Party Pacific Surgical Institute hosted the Chamber’s end-of-summer tailgate party Business After Hours bash August 13. The event drew plenty of rival Husky and Cougar fans, as well as Seahawks supporters. Gena Ramsey and Peter Bennett of Millennium, John Nelson of Woods Logging and Michelle Alward, also of Millennium, enjoy food and sunshine.
The Chamber’s Amy Hallock and Brooke Fisher prepare for the more than 130 people who attended the event.
Karen and Rick Johnson, Humane Society, Frank King, King’s Travel, and Bruce Peterson, Longview Physical and Sports Therapy, pile up their prize stash with winning raffle items.
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IT’S ALMOST HERE! 5K Fun Run Obstacle Course
September 21, 2013-9am start @ Port of Kalama, 1-5 Exit 32
Run/Walk 5K n Kids 11 & Under 1K n Tug-of-War ($25/Team) n TirePull/Sled Push (Donations) n Food & Beverage n Beer Gardens n Parking (Donations) n
Blast us on Facebook sandblaster5K or visit http://sandblaster5k.org
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
It’s NOT about perfection... It’s ALL about progress! One step at a time in your adventure By Chuck Nau Retail Consultant and Sales and Management Trainer Murray & Nau, Inc.
smaller challenges or clients first, then as you gain experience and confidence (...which comes through doing), broaden your challenges or client development It’s better to approach smaller challenges or clients and succeed, and be encouraged to continue, than to approach larger clients, fail and be discouraged and tempted not to continue. • Start With Questions...It’s ALL about questions. Don’t tell to sell ASK potential customers questions, questions about themselves, their business, their customers, their goals. ASK questions! Questions help people open up…Questions demand answers...Questions put YOU in control...Questions give you valuable information.
In today’s ever changing and challenging economic environment, it’s becoming more and more apparent to all of us the benefits of developing a positive, can-do attitude. Yes, you may have bloodied your nose over the past few years, but let’s step back for a moment and get reacquainted with some day to day benefit producing habits. Let’s review each of these habits and explore incorporating each of them into your day-to-day activities, helping to assure your ongoing personal growth and business success. As you go forward, consider the process of growth to be an adventure, a journey or an opportunity to learn and practice some different strategies. As you begin, let yourself enjoy the journey, have some fun, allow yourself to stumble now and again but, most of all, stick with it...the longer the better and the better you’ll get! Here are some guideposts to help you along the way... • Relax...Challenge yourself and strive to be the best of the best, but recognize that anxiety is common and is brought on by fear of failure. Overcome this fear by taking action, moving forward a step at a time and remembering…when you are uncomfortable, you are growing! • Be Patient With Yourself...Don’t be too critical and don’t give up if your first efforts did not achieve what you had hoped for. Judge your skill acquisition in terms of its continuing improvement, looking for progress not perfection. Michelangelo, when asked about the source of his genius, replied, “Genius is patience.” • One Step at a Time...Learn one new skill rather than tackling everything at once. It’s not how many steps...rather it’s the direction you are headed that counts most. Tackle
Nothing I SAY today will teach me anything, if I am going to learn something today I need to LISTEN! • NOs!...Understand them and use them to your advantage. When a potential client tells you “no”, be sure you understand, asking questions, what prompted the “no”. As for you, guard your time, today (e.g. in the present!) and tomorrow, by giving yourself permission to tell yourself and others “no” so your time, your valuable time, is not carelessly given away. • Accept Your Mistakes...When things do not go the way you had hoped or planned, pause for a moment and ask yourself these two questions ... “What did I do right?” and “If all things were the same, what would I do differently the next time?” Build on your successes, rather than learning from your mistakes! Focus on designing the future, NOT redesigning on the past. • Use The Correct Tools...Whether it’s your business, your employees, your suppliers, friends, or family...use experience, theirs and yours, PLUS constructive feedback and criticism to enhance and maximize your day to day efforts and success.
Please see Nau, page 22
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Fall into the habit of calling WorkSource to fill working needs By Donna Hughes WorkSource Business Services Consultant needed for an applicant to be successful long term.
Summer is ending. The days are getting cooler and fall is around the corner. Leaves are already changing. Vacations are over and the kids are back in school. It’s time to focus on business again and if you find yourself in need of increasing your workforce WorkSource is here to assist you.
➢ Listing the position on the Go2WorkSource website, recruiting for the position and prescreening applicants to ensure they meet the minimum requirements. Once WorkSource staff determines applicants meet the minimum criteria application materials are forwarded to the employer or applicants are sent direct to the employers business if the employer so chooses.
WorkSource has business services consultants that will work with you to understand your business and help you find a great fit for your individual company needs. Employers are able to use the WorkSource services that make sense for their recruitment at no cost to them. The following are some of the services available to employers to help recruit and find the right candidate:
➢ At times employers may have multiple positions available and would like to meet a number of candidates face to face at one time. WorkSource has the facilities for a hiring event or a meet and greet. Facilities are also available for one on one interviews.
➢ A business services consultant can visit your place of business to gain an understanding of your business and working environment which will help the consultant in finding applicants that meet employer’s needs.
➢ If you are interested in hiring veterans, WorkSource has a veteran’s representative that works closely with veterans to help them find employment and works in conjunction with business services consultants to help find candidates to meet employer’s requirements.
➢ Provide labor market information, including average wages for specific positions. ➢ Assistance developing a comprehensive job description including identifying the duties and responsibilities of the position as well as defining the necessary skills and education
➢ WorkSource has On The Job Training (OJT) funding that can reimburse a new employees’ wages while training up to $5,000. The new employee must be determined eligible for the OJT program before they begin working. If an employer has additional needs we work closely with community partners to help identify possible opportunities for additional training for employees or assistance with growing your business. To find out more about the services WorkSource has available to employers stop by at 305 S. Pacific Ave., Suite A, in Kelso, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or give us a call at 360-578-4219.
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Mind Your Own Business
Business top sellers available at the library By Chris Skaugset Longview Public Library Director The Longview Public Library has numerous resources helpful to the burgeoning, and long-time, business owner alike. From books, magazines, online databases, newspapers, access to technology (and Wi-Fi), reference and research services, and a place to get away from work (if you can), the library can help your business become all it can be. Every month I will introduce you to different resources you can access at your library. In addition, when you visit the library, ask us a question by e-mail or call us, you will also receive personal service from our helpful staff. Let us help you in the information overloaded modern world. Thousands of new books geared toward small business owners and business leaders are published every year covering a wide range of subjects. The business world, like so many others, is rapidly changing, difficult, unsteady and ever more complicated. This new reality makes it even more critical for business owners to keep up with these ever-changing dynamics so they, and their businesses, can continue to grow and thrive. These recent titles may help you do just that. If you read Gary Shapiro’s Ninja Innovation: The Ten Killer Strategies of the World’s Most Successful Businesses you will learn the author’s secret to a successful business, no matter what size. The long-time head of the Consumer Electronics Association, and a black-belt martial artist, Shapiro shows how businesses need to take on the traits of a ninja to succeed, or often just to survive. Today’s most successful businesses including Apple, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are using the ancient Japanese warriors’ skills of agility, creativity, decisiveness, and reinvention (to name just a few) to continue their success. Shapiro lays out his ideas clearly and understandably; it is evident from his research the skills he discusses
are critical in today’s marketplace. The only thing that would make this book any better would be more practical, how-to information to help business owners be the ninja they need to be. The E-Factor: Entrepreneurship in the Social Media Age, on the other hand, is filled with all sorts of practical and useful information. Adrie Reinders and Marion Freijsen have taken their experience as serial entrepreneurs and co-founders of the social networking site EFactor.com to write a book about the changes to entrepreneurship in this age of social media. The authors have distilled their knowledge and experience to guide entrepreneurs in tackling the challenges of competition, tightened regulations, restricted resources, talent gaps, financial limitations, to name just a few. They offer readers insights, while providing tools and strategies that can help guide business owners’ future action. While this excellent book covers a wide-range of topics, this breadth, at times, is at the cost of depth, which could give more detailed information to those wanting to learn more. My final book this month is the bestselling Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg. Though she herself has been a business success story with her positions at Facebook, Google and the Treasury Department, Sandberg is concerned by the dearth of women in leadership positions in both government and industry. This wellresearched book is conversational in tone but filled with relevant information on how women can better advance their careers in both the public and private sectors and why that is a good thing for everyone. While none of the information she provides is new or groundbreaking, the renown of the author makes this a must read book not only for women in business, or those who want to be, but for men who they work with (and for) them as well. There is a lot to be learned in these books and you can discover them and a whole lot more at your library.
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Quarterly Membership Luncheon Date: Thursday, October 3, 2013 Location: Red Lion Hotel (510 Kelso Dr., Kelso WA) Time: 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Cost: $25 advance/$35 at door
Join us for the third quarter membership luncheon and meeting! Hear from our Kelso and Longview city officials and mayors on current projects, progress, challenges and more!
David Futcher Mayor of Kelso
Steve Taylor City Manager, Kelso
Don Jensen Mayor of Longview
Bob Gregory City Manager, Longview
Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org
Making the Business Case for HR Initiatives – Financial Information You Can Use
Bi-Monthly Cowlitz County Meeting Wednesday, September 18 Cowlitz County Expo Center 1900 7th Avenue, Longview
11:30 am-1:00 pm
Join us as Steve Rosvold, President of KRM Business Solutions in Vancouver, presents information designed to help HR professionals understand key financial concepts for making a business case for HR initiatives and strategic decision-making. Specific topics of discussion will include: • Return on Investment – a key to sound financial decision making, and • What the CFO knows that the CHRO needs to know, like financial statements and key financial measures
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ About our presenter:
To register, click here If you are a Southwest Washington SHRM member, be sure to log on before selecting the event to get the reduced member rate. Registration deadline: 9/15/13
Costs
$25 –members $35 – non-members $25 - CWCG, ASTD or PHRMA Member $25 - Student (includes lunch) Who should attend? Human Resource professionals Other individuals with responsibility for or interest in managing labor relations & employee relations.
This presentation has been approved for 1.0 Strategic CEU through the HR Certification Institute.
Our Sponsor:
Steve Rosvold, MBA President – KRM Business Solutions Vancouver, WA Steve Rosvold, is the President of KRM Business Solutions, a Vancouver-based independent consulting firm. Steve has over 25 years’ experience providing leadership in financial and risk assessment, asset investment and financial management across various industries. KRM provides CFO Services to e-commerce, food processing, agricultural and industrial companies. In the practice Steve works closely with companies on strategic planning, growth initiatives, financing and capital investment opportunities. Recently he advised two companies on successful acquisitions to augment their growth strategies. KRM also provides specific professional education services to executives in the business community. Prior to founding KRM, Steve served as Chief Financial Officer at ConAgra Malt, an international grain processing and distribution company. He negotiated a $150 million credit facility and a $50 million sub debt agreement to support the business’ capital needs. Steve held numerous executive positions with Cargill Inc. As Senior Financial Officer of Cargill's Worldwide Energy Business he reduced costs by over $ 1 million annually and liquidated two distribution businesses. As a senior manager in Cargill’s Capital Markets trading division he engineered a model that allowed the company to significantly grow the business. Steve spent the early part of his career at Cargill’s grain handling business where he developed the foundation of his finance and risk management expertise. Steve achieved a Masters of Business Administration, Finance, from the University of Chicago, and a BA in History from Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is Executive Director of the Southwest Washington Executive Manufacturer’s Forum, a former director on Boards for Great Western Malting Company (U.S.), Bairds Malt Ltd. (UK), and Ulgrave Ltd. (U.K.). Rosvold is currently serving on the Board of Directors for Loaves and Fishes Centers of Portland, and is the Tandem Ride Coordinator for the Washington State School for the Blind in Vancouver, WA
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Business Toolbox
New ideas, new projects – will this work? Determining feasibility By Jerry D. Petrick Certified Business Adviser The calendar has turned on another summer, as we head into the homestretch of the fiscal year – I thought we might pause for a bit (before we leap back into the ‘same ole same ole’ business practices and routines) to consider some suggestions to evaluate the projects and ideas you’ve been kicking around all year. In this article I have included some tools, thoughts, ideas, and suggestions that have worked for my clients with great impact. Entrepreneurs are often faced with answering the question “Will it work?” Whatever your specific project – starting a new business, expanding an existing one, purchasing a new piece of equipment, offering a new product line, or even selling or buying a business – the basic issue is feasibility. Can it be implemented successfully? What is likelihood of failure? What will the ROI (return on investment) be? Here at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) we work with entrepreneurs on a variety of projects, and most of them involve some form of risk or feasibility assessment. Here are some tips on feasibility that we’ve found work in most situations:
Do A Rough Analysis First
A good starting point is a “back of the napkin” analysis. In a short amount of time and with little data, you can often get a rough idea of the feasibility of a project. The results of this rough analysis may quickly determine if you need to spend more time on the detailed analysis, alter your idea a bit, or move on to another idea. For example, say you are thinking of making cupcakes to sell to stores, cafes, espresso stands, and restaurants. In a short amount of time you can gather some basic data:
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• The cost of ingredients of a batch of cupcakes, and how many cupcakes a batch makes. • The time it will take you to bake them. • Materials and time to decorate, package, and deliver the cupcakes. • How much rent will be to use a commercial kitchen (assuming you will lease space until you are established). • The price of competing cupcakes (the price to your customer – the store, café, espresso stand or restaurant). • How much money you need at a minimum to take out of this business for yourself for the time you spend in it. Although you will have other costs (insurance for example), you can quickly calculate using the above data, what your capacity is (how many you can make in the time you have in your leased commercial kitchen), and what your gross profit (sales less cost of ingredients) per cupcake will be. You can then calculate how many cupcakes you need to sell per month to pay the rent, and provide you with the income you have decided is the minimum you need. You can then see if at this very basic level of analysis if it seems feasible enough to continue. If the rough analysis seems feasible, you can gather more detailed costs and refine the analysis. Then you can start your market research to determine the level of demand. While this example is a simple one, the approach can apply to any type of business: starting a commercial fishing business, expanding a manufacturing business to add a new product, or starting a service business, such as bookkeeping services. The process is the same: • Gather rough estimates of your basic and largest costs, including profit for the owner(s). • Figure out how many of your product you need to sell to cover these basic costs. • Ask yourself if the resulting sales figure seems reasonable. • Calculate how many different customers you might need.
Please see Petrick, page 22
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Cowlitz Economic Development Council
Longview Outdoor Gallery supports the arts and community By Ted Sprague President – Cowlitz Economic Development Council
that one piece. Of the 11 pieces in the original gallery, six will remain in our community.
It is hard to believe it has been two years since the Longview Outdoor Gallery (LOG) installed its first set of 11 sculptures in Downtown Longview. The Longview Outdoor Gallery program was inspired, in part, by the Visual Arts Commission trip to see the Puyallup, Wash., outdoor gallery in 2009. The LOG has been an outstanding asset for our community and supports many of our economic development goals, including establishing a vital downtown that supports arts and education. The timing could not be more perfect with the city’s street rejuvenation project, the action plan from consultants of HyettPalma, Cowlitz Economic Development Council’s TIPs Strategic Plan and Lower Columbia College’s interest in creating that metaphorical bridge that connects the students with downtown. The revitalization of downtown does not happen through a single event. The LOG, the opening of Ashtown Brewing and other excellent new dining and shopping opportunities enhance our area and will build off of one another. Originally LOG’s goal was to purchase one piece from each gallery exhibition and as the new exhibition is about to be introduced, Longview is starting a much larger collection than
Please join the LOG reception hosted by the Longview Downtown Partnership September 7, 2013 The Broadway Art Gallery 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Local Food – Local Wine – Local Friends Meet the Artists – Tour the New Sculptures Network with all your Downtown Connections Suggested $5 donation will go back into the LDP. To register or for inquiries about how to become a friend of downtown or a member of the LDP e-mail dietz@cowlitzedc. com or call 360-423-9921.
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Anne O’Connor onthemark associates
Bianca Lemmons Cowlitz County Title Company
Michael Julian Kelso Theater Pub
Chris Bailey Lower Columbia College
Clayton J. Bartness, DC Longview Chiropractic Clinic
Chet Makinster Longview City Council
Frank V. McShane, Past President Cascade Networks, Inc. Jerri Henry, President Futcher-Henry CPA Group
Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner Joel Hanson, President Elect KLOG/KUKN/The Wave
Michael Claxton Walstead Mertsching
Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council
Lance Welch PeaceHealth
Steve Taylor Kelso City Manager
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Diane Craft, Vice President Koelsch Senior Communities Linda DiLembo Three Rivers Mall Julie Rinard Community Home Health & Hospice Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank
AUGUST 2013
Port Talk
The Port is $444 million for local businesses, what does that mean? Results of a recent economic study showed that the Port of Longview delivers $444 million of direct business revenue and local consumption expenditures to the local economy. But what does that mean?
HIGH
To retain its balance, crews from both Superior Tire Service and Les Schwab simultaneously air the mobile harbor crane’s 88 rubber tires.
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JUST A FEW LOCAL VENDORS
WILCOX & FLEGEL With over 100 pieces of equipment needed to move millions of tons of cargo each year, the Port looks to local Wilcox and Flegel as one of its fuel suppliers. WOOD’S LOGGING SUPPLY Among the dozens of local companies that supply materials to keep the Port running, Wood’s is one of the vendors that supplies safety equipment, slings for moving cargo, wire rope for equipment and more. JL STOREDAHL & SONS From renting oversized dump trucks to construction projects, a variety of local companies work with the Port to get the job done. SUPERIOR TIRE SERVICE The majority of the Port’s equipment rolls on rubber tires (our crane alone has 88), which is why we rely on local vendors
The Port supports the local economy. Here are a few highlights of the nearly 150 local businesses the Port worked with in 2012.
It means that local businesses feel the positive financial impacts of a healthy Port. Economists like the terms direct, indirect and induced jobs to describe how closely jobs in our community are related to Port activity. They use other terms like local consumption expenditures to say that the people with those jobs are buying things, and they’re buying them here - locally. The Port and its customers buy a considerable amount of products and services provided by businesses in our community. To operate the Port, the Port and businesses that work with us hire local workers and make local purchases from companies in our community to the tune of nearly $316 million. But it doesn’t end there.
...that in 2012, the Port worked with more than 150 businesses in Cowlitz County?
So, what does $444 million for local business mean? It means that together, we’re doing our job to maintain a vibrant community.
For more information on the Port’s economic impacts visit www.portoflongview.com
...the Port works under strict purchasing guidelines established by the State?
Commissioners
...the more cargo we have moving across
in increased local spending?
“Having an active port in our community makes a significant difference for our business,” said Wood’s Logging Supply Owner Tony White. “It’s the logging companies, contractors and related businesses that rely on the Port who make up a large number of our customers.”
how well do you know your port?
did you KNOW...
the docks, the more we pay in wages for labor, repairs to equipment and maintenance on facilities, all of which result
The paychecks those companies and the Port pay its workers gets spent somewhere, providing even more fuel for our local economy. The thing about money is that when you spend it, it’s not actually used up. It gets spent again and again in our community in the form of groceries, dinners out, school supplies and haircuts. It’s a ripple effect felt throughout the community in the amount of $128 million.
Darold Dietz/District 1 Lou Johnson/District 2 A local vendor works on the Port’s security system.
Bob Bagaason/District 3
Chief Executive Officer
...it costs approximately $40,000 to replace a set of tires on a log stacker? The Port owns five log stackers that have been
LOOKING AHEAD IN THE PORT’S VESSEL SCHEDULE
Geir-Eilif Kalhagen
heavily used throughout the surge in log exports.
EXPORT logs to China (two vessels) EXPORT logs to Japan EXPORT petroleum coke to Australia
Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month and are open to the public. For more information, visit portoflongview.com
EXPORT petroleum coke to New Zealand EXPORT petroleum coke to Canada
Information
like STS to keep equipment moving.
want to do business with the Port?
STAR RENTAL & SALES From light towers to air compressors, equipment needed for short-term projects and cargo operations is sourced on an asneeded basis from vendors like Star. The Port’s maintenance crew installs new directional signs produced in Longview.
portoflongview.com > (360) 425-3305 > GET CONNECTED.
If you offer a product or service that may be useful to your Port, contact our Contracts and Purchasing Manager Kara Metzger at kmetzger@portoflongview.com or 360-4253305.
Commission Meetings
Is there information you would like to see in Port Talk, or do you have questions related to a story that was featured? Please contact Ashley Helenberg, Public Affairs Manager, 360.425.3305
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Chamber Members in the News
Community hospice program seeks volunteers
Longview. Join Jordana Barclay, Government Contracting Assistance Specialist with Washington Procurement Technical Assistance Center, and learn the basics of marketing and selling your products and services to federal, state and local government agencies. This is a great opportunity to learn how to grow your business through government contracting. • What does it take to become a successful government contractor? • Classifying your Product or Service (NAICS and SIC Codes) • Getting Registered: SAM, Dynamic Small Business Search • Small Business Programs and certifications: Set-asides, Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, 8(a), Veteran Owned • Types of Solicitations • Marketing Strategies and Finding Opportunities
Community Home Health and Hospice is seeking individuals in Cowlitz, Columbia and Wahkiakum counties to volunteer in their communities with the Community Hospice program. Free orientation is scheduled for September 10 through September 12. Contact Rudy Miniutti, volunteer coordinator, at rminiutti@chhh.org or 360-414-5433 or 800-378-8510.
Class to cover government contract business basics
Register online at http://wsbdc.org/training-calendar or see more information at http://www.kelsolongviewchamber. org/event/growing-your-business-through-governmentcontracting#sthash.0gq5VmK2.dpuf.
Consider attending the free class, Grow Your Business Through Government Contraction, September 5 between 7:30 and 10 a.m. in the Heritage Room at Lower Columbia College, 1600 Maple St.,
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Ambassador of the Month
Chamber recognizes Red Coats Chamber Ambassadors, known as The Red Coats, are July July July August July & August an integral part of the ChamPam Fierst Nick Lemiere Carrie Medack Jason Meuniner Jeni Quiriconi ber of Commerce. The AmRed Lion Hotel Edward Jones Prime Lending Twin City Bank Heartsong Massage bassador team is made up of active Chamber volunteers whose responsibilities include meeting and greeting at Chamber events, welcoming new members and assisting at ribbon cuttings and community events. Ambassadors juggle busy professional careers while making time to assist the Chamber at a variety of events year long. Would you like to wear a red coat and represent the Chamber, contact Brooke Fisher at the Chamber office.
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
CEO’s Message
Minor move major, and strategic, relocation for Chamber office By Bill Marcum Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce CEO
Our days at Olympia Way are numbered as we prepare to relocate and join forces with the Visitors Center.
By the time you read our next Kelso Longview Chamber Business Connection we will be in our new building at 105 Minor Road in Kelso, just off Exit 39. The 30-plus year old mobile home that housed the Volcano Center will be the new home of the Kelso Longview Chamber and the Kelso Visitors Center.
visitors to increase to around 20,000. Maybe not in our first year, but I would think by our second year.
A new prefabricated structure will be in place the second week of September and we hope to move in during the last week of September and open for business October 1. It will take us several months to get all the materials back in place and the Visitors Center walls decorated with information about the City of Kelso, the City of Longview, Cowlitz County, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and all the great recreational activities this area has to offer including Mount St. Helens.
One thing you will notice is the large sign. Yes, the one you could see from I-5. VOLCANO CENTER had to be removed to place the new building and meet the codes for parking. So, one of our challenges is what kind of signage to erect at the sight that will help travelers find us. Once we have the building in place, we are occupying it and helping visitors, we will formulate that plan and by early next spring (in time for spring and summer travel) we will have our new signage.
The former Visitors Center was averaging more than 10,000 visitors a year and jumped about 25 percent on the weekends when Starbucks and Jack-in-the-Box opened. As many of you know that structure was on its last legs. “Not very attractive,” would be a polite way of saying how the center looked. Not very inviting to our guests, and yet, more than 10,000 people stopped by for information.
So, keep an eye out at 105 Minor Road, you will see a new structure in the coming weeks.
At the current Chamber office on Olympia Way in Longview we get about 600 visitors stopping by each year with 90 percent requesting a map of the area or recreational information, event information or the often asked, “Where are those squirrel bridges?” At the new location, the Chamber staff will have the opportunity to talk with more than 10,000 visitors each year. We will have brochures, coupon books, event guides, maps, and hopefully, anything else our visitors will need. Our intent is to get them to spend some time in our great cities. Whether it is two hours having lunch in the park or two days before they head to the coast, business in Kelso and Longview will benefit from the Chamber of Commerce having contact with that many people. With the opening of the new facility, I fully expect the number of
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Kelso
Longview
Civic and Scottish pride on display this month
Squirrel bridge transfer part of a busy August
By City Manager Steve Taylor
By Mayor Don Jensen Boy what a whirlwind month this has been – Squirrel Fest, purchase of the original Amos Peters squirrel bridge, Unique Tin Car Show, Cruise, Art in the Park, and the visual arts donation to the city.
Construction cones, kilts and cabers, and new visitor facilities are in store for Kelso this September. City staff has taken advantage of our beautiful summer weather by putting extra effort into city beautification and cleanup of our parks, streets, and civic facilities. You may have noticed the “pop” of fresh white and yellow paint on crosswalks and curbs as well as new pavement on city streets. Public facilities like City Hall and the Train Depot have been pressure washed and landscaped. And once again, our two-man crew has kept Kelso’s parks in tip-top shape during the high-use summer season.
Squirrel Fest and the other events made our city show on everyone’s map. Squirrel Fest was a huge success for both the city and those putting it on. If you missed it I’m sorry. Lots of booths that had all kinds of things to eat or purchase, entertainment all day and a main stage act to end the day of fun and entertainment for all ages. During the Squirrel Fest I had the pleasure of exchanging the title for the original squirrel bridge for the sum of $1. The city needed ownership to be able to put the bridge on the state and National Register of Historic Things.
My hat goes off to the professionals and volunteers that keep the city running and take ownership of the community’s attractive assets. I believe beautification begins at City Hall, and the burden is on us to set the example for every member of the Kelso community.
The Unique Tin Car Show was a huge success again and brought a lot of colorful and restored cars, and those that drive them, to our city. These events sell a multitude of food locally and put many heads in beds as the industry calls it. To cap off the day the annual Car Cruise on 15th Avenue also took place. Where else do you get that much entertainment for free while sitting on the sidewalk?
After more than 30 years, the City, in partnership with the Chamber and Cowlitz County, will be unveiling the new Visitors Center at 105 Minor Road (I-5 Exit 39). The new 2,000-square-foot facility will arrive in September, and include design features and architectural enhancements that complement the adjacent new commercial development supporting travelers at the interchange.
During Squirrel Fest there was a wonderful event at the lake called Art in the Park. Artists from near and far were able to show off their art. What a beautiful venue for art.
We are pleased to continue our partnership with the Chamber in operating the Visitors Center, and excited to house them in the new facility, whose location will expose Kelso and Longview businesses to thousands of annual visitors.
During the City Council meeting of August 22 a donation was made to the city. The Visual Arts Commission has made a change to the art on Commerce Avenue. Several of the art pieces were donated to the city. For an old mill town, with the help of those that live here, we seem to be starting to become a more refined group.
Additionally, the City used Lodging Tax funds to repair and update the western gateway Welcome to Kelso monument on Cowlitz Way and West Main, and a new visitors brochure will be printed this fall showcasing community assets and tourist services.
Thanks to all those that put in so much time and energy to make our city a better place to live and by doing so also helped with our economy.
Please see Kelso, page 21
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Marketing and Sales Six Pack Marketing - Behind the scenes, analysis, budgeting and understanding Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray Nau, Inc. Sept. 11 Marketing - On Stage, Strategies, tactics, implementation Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray Nau, Inc. Sept. 18 Social Media Marketing - What is it really and why do I need it? Facilitator: Norma Davey, KLOG, KUKN and the WAVE
Sept. 25 Sales People - Value, expectations, inspection of those expectations Facilitator: Bill Marcum, Kelso Longview Chamber Oct. 2 Sales 101 - Bring your sales people any and all. This session is for them. Facilitator: Chuck Nau, Murray Nau, Inc. Oct. 9 Customer Service - How to answer the phone to working with difficult customers. Facilitator: Chris Bailey, President Lower Columbia College
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Kelso, from page 19
“I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.” “We appreciate the hometown feel that Fibre Federal Credit Union provides. The loan department has been especially instrumental in meeting our banking needs, and the online banking is a huge time saver. I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.” - David McAlister, Artisan Landscapes Owner
Speaking of West Main…the realignment project will begin this fall after a lengthy right-of-way acquisition and certification process. Demolition on the former Furniture World and law office buildings will commence this fall as well as underground utility work. Expect minor delays and lane closures on West Main and state Route 411 as the primary arterial is transitioned to Catlin Street to more directly connect traffic to Ocean Beach Highway and Cowlitz Way resulting in reduced congestion. Completion of the project is also exciting in that it opens up a host of possibilities for revitalization and redevelopment of the West Main strip. City comprehensive planning is currently under way, and the future of West Main is a primary topic of consideration. We want to hear from residents and businesses on how West Kelso can best benefit from the realignment project and enhance the neighborhood’s long-term vitality. Of course, I would be remiss in failing to mention the annual “gathering of the clans” at the Highlander Festival – Kelso’s premiere community event at Tam O’Shanter Park the second weekend of September. I invite everyone to celebrate Kelso’s Scottish heritage and participate in the festivities, competitions, and displays of strength and skill. (It takes quite a bit of strength and skill just to eat haggis…). Just steer clear of the lads and lassies as they toss timber and throw stones on the field of play. Kelso pride runs high this time of year. We live in a beautiful, vibrant community filled with friendly people, and it’s a great time to walk tall in the highlands and show the region the best our town can offer.
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Petrick, from page 12 • If your rough results are encouraging, proceed to next steps. • Refine your cost estimates and redo the analysis. • Start your market research to determine demand. NOTE: When you are evaluating an ‘opportunity’ it is important to remember there is a level of evaluation beyond mere ‘feasibility’ – you must ask yourself: ‘…what else could I do with my interests and resources?’ When you are deciding which opportunity to commit to you should actively consider the variety of investment options you have…in other words…‘this is a good opportunity – compared to…(other possible options – including doing nothing at this time)’. What happens if the rough analysis is not encouraging? Now that you know a bit more about the dynamics of your idea you could choose to rework your idea – explore various options for parts of your plan. However, sometimes the real answer is…‘this idea isn’t feasible for me to pursue at this time’.
Nau, from page 7
Please resist the temptation to try to prove your own assessment wrong – if it isn’t likely to payoff, you don’t need to take the risk – find another idea to evaluate and pursue if feasible. Being successful in starting a business or expanding an existing one involves determining if the venture is feasible — will it work. Start your analysis and contact the SBDC if you discover the idea is promising; we can do a more detailed feasibility analysis together. Enjoy a prosperous autumn! This article was prepared by Jerry Petrick, MBA, SPHR, PMP and Certified Business Adviser with the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Longview. Petrick provides no-cost, confidential business advisory services by appointment. He can be reached via e-mail jerry.petrick@wsbdc.org. manage? Asking yourself similar questions and pausing to take an overview will ensure that you do not stray very far before you realize you’re making a mistake or focusing on the wrong customers or clients or the wrong areas of opportunity. Don’t forget, like some of the best symphonies, some of the best small business careers, are unfinished! Enhancing your strengths...minimizing your weaknesses is a challenge. It is also hard work. But the rewards are hard earned and well deserved If you expect the best...you’ll get the best! Have fun!...and good luck!
Don’t rely only on your tools at hand. Invest in yourself with different experiences, looking for the teaching moment (...asking questions), in continuing education and volunteer opportunities outside of your business. Practice your newly acquired skills with friends and acquaintances, so they will become natural to you day in and day out. • Lighten Up...Fear of failure may cause you to subconsciously push too hard, to “white knuckle” sell to that customer or client. Anticipate minor setbacks, have fun and laugh at yourself. You can do it! You know you can! Be patient ... Good luck? It’s simply where preparation meets opportunity! • Don’t Overlook the Obvious...Don’t go too far away from your existing customers and clients in search of the next new bigger client over the horizon. You may just lose your perception of that existing customer or client and not realize that had you asked they would have happily said yes to a larger and larger (dollar) commitment to your business or service. • Step Back...Much like an artist, develop your depth perception and judgment. In other words, the longer your view, the smaller things become. Teach yourself to regularly and frequently “step back” and look at the big picture, your overall account customer or client profile rather than always intently focusing on each and every account. Where are you going? What are you trying to achieve? What are you attempting to
© Murray & Nau, Inc. Chuck Nau of Murray & Nau, Inc. is a Seattle area based consultant and sales and management trainer. He is a 25-year veteran of advertising, sales, media and management, who knows and understands the everyday challenges of starting up, growing, and surviving in today’s ever changing retail climate. He has spoken to and conducted workshops for a number of local retail and chamber organizations, national publishing groups, national retailers and manufacturers, state press associations, and newspaper groups. Comments and questions are welcome and may be directed to Chuck via e-mail: murnau@nwlink.com or at 425-603-0984.
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Hosted by: The Empress Estate Wear your Halloween costumes and mingle with your fellow Chamber members as you dance to spooky tunes and indulge in scary eats , treats and creepy drinks provided by The Oak Tree. 100% of the proceeds will go to the Lower Columbia Professionals Scholarship Fund to benefit graduating Seniors in their quest for higher education! Date: Friday, October 18, 2013 Location: The Empress Estate (460 Empress Ln., Woodland, WA) Time: 6-9 p.m. Cost: $30 (includes private charter transportation) $20 (without transportation) Register at: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org (Must register by October 15th) *Charter transportation will depart at 5:30 p.m. from Fibre Federal Credit Union (796 Commerce Ave.-Ops Center) and leave the party at 9:00 p.m. *Prizes awarded for best individual and duo costumes!
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Longview Downtown Partnership
What’s up, downtown?
Monthly socials part of new marketing plan By Alice Dietz Longview Downtown Partnership President Please join us at our next social.
As you know, or at least I hope you all do by now, Longview Downtown Partnership (LDP) is working hard to get ourselves back in the economic game. I will keep reminding you of this in each article I write – Longview Downtown District is Cowlitz County’s largest employer with more than 1,800 jobs. This might sound harsh, I might lose some friends, but what I know about downtown is that we have been in a rut and a LONG one. I’ve heard as long as 20-plus years.
The Longview Outdoor Gallery Reception Hosted by The Longview Downtown Partnership September 7, 2013 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Broadway Art Gallery
One example I’ve experienced. I attended two downtown meetings with six years between them, the downtowners were discussing the exact same topics they had six years prior. The Longview Downtown Partnership was focusing on the big picture for so many years when we should first be focusing on what we need to get to the big picture. We have put the cart before the horse and now we need to start small, rebuilding relationships with the owners of our economic engine, downtown Longview. I believe in the big picture, but I believe you have to start with the small picture to get there. If you are knitting a sweater, you have to begin with a pattern. That’s my first-year goal as LDP president, creating a pattern. My pattern consists of two things: membership and marketing.
Local Food – Local Wine – Local Friends Meet the Artists – Tour the New Sculptures Network with your Downtown Connections Suggested $5 donation will go back into the LDP. To register or for inquiries about how to become a friend of downtown or a member of the LDP e-mail me at dietz@cowlitzedc.com or call 360-423-9921. Memberships are as low as $25 a year.
One large component to our marketing plan is the General Membership Socials. They are a less structured version of our former General Membership Meetings and take place on the third Tuesday of every month (with the exception of September). They will include networking, food, fun, a splash of booze (or not), new faces and a new source of revenue for our club. We host these events at a rotating downtown business. By adjusting the format of these events I hope to see stronger relationships develop and hope the business owners see the need and importance of supporting downtown Longview. Plus it’s a way to have light-hearted fun after a long day of working hard to keep the business doors open!
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Chamber Board Spotlight Lance Welch – PeaceHealth/St. John Medical Center
Latest board member a fan of the Chamber and community By Brenda Sexton For The Kelso Longview Chamber
“The hospital is the No. 1 employer in town,” he said. “In the economic engine, the hospital is a huge cog.”
Lance Welch isn’t one to pass on an opportunity, whether it’s the chance to catch one of his favorite movies – “Tootsie” or “Shawshank Redemption” – or a vacant seat on the Kelso Longview Chamber Board of Directors.
Arriving more than a decade ago from years spent in the healthcare industry in other parts of the county, Welch said Longview’s system is top-notch.
Welch, Regional Director of Specialty Service Lines at PeaceHealth/St. John Medical Center, recently attended his second Chamber board meeting. He replaced fellow PeaceHealth/St. John Medical Center representative Sarah Cave, whose responsiblities changed, causing her to spend more time in Vancouver, making it difficult for her to complete her term which ends in December. The title Specialty Services is broad. Welch oversees departments like oncology, sleep, rehab, dialysis and wellness. He recently celebrated his 12th anniversary with the Longview medical center. “My mom had a doctorate in nursing and I saw her career path,” he said. “I wasn’t big on the clinical piece.” But he did see benefits in health and wellness. Welch earned his bachelor of science degree and masters in health administration from Oklahoma State University. He served as the marketing coordinator for Oklahoma State University’s Wellness Center before taking on the role as Director of Wellness Services at St. Mary’s Hospital in Enid, Okla.
“The Longview system, it’s amazing,” Welch said. “They, the people here, are Harvard trained, Duke trained, Yale trained. The talent here, it’s impressive for its size.” The changes in healthcare are coming fast and furious and keeping Welch on his toes, but it’s change he believes is necessary for even greater quality and better value. In addition to his duties with the Chamber, Welch sits on the YMCA Board and has been involved in community health programs like Cowlitz on the Move. Outside the Chamber and his job, Welch is an avid fan. Depending on the season, he can be found singing and cheering for Portland’s Major League Soccer team as part of The Timbers Army, the epitome of support and soccer fan enthusiasm. He can also be found courtside rooting for the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. He’s a season-ticket holder for both teams, as well as Portland’s theater.
Trusted.
Although a new face to the Chamber board, Welch is no stranger to the Chamber. He went through the Chamber leadership process in Enid, Okla., his hometown and where he began his career.
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He said the Chamber is a good link and he likes its mission to provide resources and leadership for business success. “They like to keep the money in the community and I like that,” he said. “I do think Longview could be more aggressive about keeping our money from floating down south.”
Bianca Lemmons Vice President/Manager
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The medical center plays a key role.
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Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Last chance to register for STEM Fest By Mary Brown Director of Strategic Initiatives Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council Activities have been posted and it is time to register to attend STEM Fest, the science, techonogy, engineering and math event. Below are instructions on how to ensure your spot: General Public – Students, families, educators and the general public are invited to attend events on Friday, September 20, through Sunday, September 22. All activities are hands-on, engaging, free and family oriented. Families will learn more about the local STEM industry as well as STEM careers through this event. Most activities range from one to two hours, and are open to a variety of different age groups. There are also some larger STEM Fest Expos, such as at Lower Columbia College, Clark College and the Sturgeon Festival where families can participate in multiple activities at one location, coming and going as they’d like. If you are
interested in learning more or registering, please follow the instructions below: 1. Visit: http://www.stem-fest.com/event-details/calendar/ 2. Under ‘Event Categories’, on the left hand side, click on ‘Family’, or if you are particularly interested in larger STEM Fest Expos, click on ‘Expo’. 3. Please follow the registration instructions to ensure your spot. Or: check the event calendar meant exclusively for the general public below. Teachers/Educators – Teachers are invited to participate in STEM Fest on Friday, September 20, by either taking their students out on a field trip to a local business/organization and/or having a
Please see STEM, page 28
STEM Fest Event Calendar Friday, September 20, 2013 Family STEM Night 4pm-8pm @Lower Columbia College Papermaking
Police Cruisers
Great Wall of STEM
Electronic Car Club
RA Long Science Team
Recycled Art
Sink your Boat
Sonic Tomography
Cowlitz Cadets Family STEM Night is aimed at students and families of all ages. Registration for this event is not required.
Saturday, September 21, 2013 Clark College STEM Expo 9am-2pm @ Clark College: Gaiser Hall 9am-2pm
General STEM Activities
9am-2pm
Mad Science Discovery Station
9am-2pm
Robotics Demonstration
9am-2pm
USGS Hands-On Stations
9am-12pm
9am-10am
Location: 1600 Maple St. Longview, WA 98632
STEM Possibilities: A Discussion On Key STEM Initiatives 6pm-7:30pm @ ESD 112 Topics will include attracting students to STEM fields of study through relevant, real-world, and integrated instruction, and the power and synergy that is created through building STEM partnerships. Registration is required, additional information for this event can be found at: http://www.stem-fest.com/calendar/11/stempossibilities-a-discussion-on-key-stem-initiatives/
Kitchen Culture Kits Registration is required: http:// www.stem-fest.com/calendar/42/ kitchen-culture-kits-1/ Flashing Yellow Arrow / Kittelson & Associates
9am-12pm
Engineering & Architecture: Experimenting with Structural Support
10am-11am
Storyteller / Will Hornyak
10am-1pm
SAPA Extrusions
10am-11am
Jughandle? Highway Planning in Oregon City / Kittelson & Associates
11am-12pm
Storyteller / Will Hornyak
Sturgeon Festival 10am-2pm @ Water Resources Center This free, fun, family event offers opportunities for the entire family to learn about fish and other animals in and around the Columbia River. This is a partnership event with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sturgeon Festival is aimed at students and families of all ages. Registration for this event is not required. Location: 4600 SE Columbia Way Vancouver, WA 98661
Clark College STEM Expo is aimed at students and families of all ages. Registration for this event is not required, with the exception of Kitchen Culture Kits Location: 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA
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http://stem-fest.com
Jingle All the Way 5K The Sequel Saturday December 14, 2013
It’s back with bells on! Jingle All the Way to this second annual mega holiday event! Run, walk and be entertained by local musicians. Visit Santa and his holiday friends. Experience the downtown shops and eateries. Festive holiday costumes are encouraged as prizes will be awarded to best individual and group attire. Get on board for a magical evening!
4:00 pm The Rudolph Run/Kids Event
A Backwards Run put on by the Sandbaggers at Commerce & Broadway COST: FREE for Kids 9 and under. No registration required* *Parents must sign waiver for children to participate between 3-4 p.m. at race location
PRIZES: Awarded to top 3 finishers of 9-6 heat and 5 and under heat
5:00 pm 5k Run/Walk
At Commerce & Broadway in Downtown Historic Longview COST*: $25 with shirt/$20 no shirt/$65 Family of 4 including 4 shirts (more family registrations can be purchased for additional $10 with shirt) *A portion will benefit the Chamber’s Lower Columbia Professionals Scholarship Fund
Company Discounts**: $2 off per registration (25-99 employee registrations) or $5 off per registration (100+ employee registrations) **Company Teams must sign up through Chamber Office directly
PRIZES: Awarded to 1st three male and female finishers REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, November 29th (to get a shirt) Registration for no-shirt will be available through day of race REGISTER: www.kelsolongviewchamber.org PACKET PICK-UP: December 13th at the MERK building (Commerce & Broadway) 10am-5pm Questions? Contact (360-423-8400) Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
STEM, from page 26 business come into their classroom. Most activities range from one to two hours, and involve an exciting hands-on activity with STEM career information integrated in. If you are interested in learning more or registering, please follow the instructions below: 1. Visit: http://www.stem-fest.com/event-details/calendar/ 2. Under ‘Event Categories,’ on the left hand side, click on ‘Field Trip’ if you are interested in taking your students on a field trip, or ‘In-Classroom’ if you prefer to have a business come into your classroom to host an activity. 3. Scroll through and view events. NOTE: Different activities are catered towards different age groups, once you’ve found one you like, please ensure that your students are in the age group noted. 4. Register: Fill out the registration form and I will be in touch shortly. Please e-mail Mary Brown at mbrown@swwdc.org with any questions.
The Sky is the Limit! We started in a garage in April 2007. Twin City Bank has provided us the necessary funding to grow our business into a multi-million dollar company. By early fall Twin City Bank will help us move into our new 15,000 square foot facility with room to continue our growth. Jon Hansen, General Manager Sid Somers and Steve Norby Fabricast Valve
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twincitybank.com
Kelso Longview Business Connection
September 2013
Welcome New Members
Chamber membership has its privileges Celebrate these new Chamber members with us *
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 • Web Site Links • Member to Member Discounts • Membership Directory • Tax Deduction
Northwest Coffee Roasters
* Kings House of Travel * Gordon’s Mini Storage * Big 5 Sporting Goods * Three Rivers Storage * RE/MAX * Kenagy & Associates
• Newsletter • Business Card Display • Use of Chamber Logo Representation through action committees, Candidate Forums and up-todate Action Alerts. • Legislative Representation • Issues Tracking and Information • Task Forces • Candidate Forums • Legislative Update Breakfast • Demographics Publication
Packages
Basic Membership Package – $275 or $26 per month. Bronze Membership Package – $500 or $46.66 per month. Silver Membership Package – $1,000 or $86.33 per month. Gold Membership Package – $2,500 or $211.33 per month. Platinum Membership Package – $5,000 or $416.66 per month. Diamond Club Membership Package – $10,000 or $834 per month.
Join today! Call 360-423-8400 September Search! We’ll simplify your search for a candidate that suits your needs.
360.414.1200
www.expresslongview.com
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Scan this Scan this QR Code QR Code For Online For Online Registration Registration
Parent or Guardian if participant is under age 18 Signature of runner/walker Parent or Guardian if participant is under age 18 Signature of runner/walker Make checks payable to: HARVEST CLASSIC. Send check and entry form to: Harvest Classic, P.O. Box 2064, Longview, WA 98632-8430 Make checks payable to: HARVEST CLASSIC. Send check and entry form to: Harvest Classic, P.O. Box 2064, Longview, WA 98632-8430
that any sponsor may subsequently use, for publicity or promotional purposes, my name and/or pictures of me participating in this event withou that any sponsor may subsequently foraddition, publicityI or promotional purposes, my name and/orand pictures mecompliance participating event without obligation or liability to use, me. In have read the entry information provided certifyofmy by in mythis signature. obligation or liability to me. In addition, I have read the entry information provided and certify my compliance by my signature.
ENTRY FEES: Canned Food Donation❑ ________Age Pre-registration (no shirt) ❑ $19 Day of Event (no shirt) ❑ $25 Sign up early, shirts & sizes Registration: Pre-registration (no shirt) ❑ $19 Day of Event (no Sign up early, shirts & sizes Registration: ❑ ________Age Pre-registration (w/shirt) ❑ $33 Day of shirt) Event❑ $25 (w/shirt) ❑ $40 distributed on a Pre-registration (w/shirt) ❑ $33 Day of Event (w/shirt) ❑ $40 Pre-registration Deadline: Postmarked by 9/27/2013 distributed on a Pre-registration Deadline: Postmarked by 9/27/2013 first-come, first-serve basis. PLEASE READ & SIGN: In consideration of your acceptance of my entry I, intending to be legally bound for myself, my heirs, executors and administra first-come, first-serve basis. PLEASE READ & SIGN: In consideration your acceptance of my entry I, intending to of beLongview legally bound heirs, executors and administrators, do hereby release and of discharge the HARVEST CLASSIC, the City and for anymyself, and allmy other sponsors, agents, employees or volunteer ❑ S ❑ M ❑ L ❑ XL tors, do hereby release andall discharge HARVEST CLASSIC, the City of Longview and any and otherofsponsors, agents, employees or volunteers from any and liability the arising from illness, injuries or damages I may suffer as aall result my participation in this event. I understand and agre ❑ S ❑ M ❑ L ❑ XL from any and all liability arising from illness, injuries or damages I may suffer as a result of my participation in this event. I understand and agree
Longsleeve T-Shirts
5K RUN/WALK ❑ 5K RUN/WALK ❑ Longsleeve T-Shirts
c ti oned E v e n t
2013
First Name First Name Zip
HARVEST CLASSIC 2013 ENTRY FORM HARVEST CLASSIC 2013 ENTRY FORM {please print)
{please print)
Last Name Last Name Address Address City City Email Email
{please print)
Register online at http://rotaryharvestclassic.com or complete this form and mail to address below. Register online at http://rotaryharvestclassic.com or complete this form and mail to address below. San
Sponsors: Sponsors:
SPECIAL THANKS:
• Life Works • Reprographics Printing • The City of Longview • Heritage Bank Employees SPECIAL THANKS: • Fred Meyer • CAP Volunteers & Staff • Kelso/Longview Chamber • Office Depot • Life Works • Reprographics Printing • The Daily News • The City of Longview • Heritage Bank Employees • Fred Meyer • CAP Volunteers & Staff And everyone in the community who helps make the • Kelso/Longview Chamber • Office Depot HARVEST CLASSIC a success to benefit HELP Warehouse! • The Daily News
FOR MORE INFORMATION: HARVEST CLASSIC a success to benefit HELP Warehouse! And everyone in the community who helps make the
Visit our website: http://rotaryharvestclassic.com FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Visit our website: http://rotaryharvestclassic.com Or contact chairman by email:
harvestclassic@live.com or 360-957-6706
Or contact chairman by email: harvestclassic@live.com or 360-957-6706