11/24 Redmond Business News by Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB

NOVEMBER 2024

REDMOND CHAMBER PREMIER LEVEL SPONSORS

DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

NOVEMBER 2024

BY ERIC SANDE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Election Season

Election season is upon us and I hope everyone has exercised their right to vote. Ballots are due in by Tuesday, November 5, by 8pm, so get out and VOTE!

Chamber’s proposal to the City to form new partnership

I hope that you have had a chance to read our proposal to the City to form a new partnership for destination development and guest services. The Redmond Chamber has been the longstanding provider of tourism promotion, community events and visitor services, contributing significantly to the growth of Redmond’s tourism industry. You also might have heard that we did not apply for the RFP issued by the City. The Chamber’s core strengths lie in community engagement, tourism services and event management, which were not part of the RFP’s scope of work. It would not have been a fruitful application, nor a beneficial use of everyone’s time. The Chamber’s finances and use of room tax dollars were thoroughly vetted and approved annually by the City Council

and Budget Committee. The Chamber remains eager to continue to support local tourism experience and economic development through our expertise in destination development and visitor services. We hope to create this vital new partnership soon.

Chamber Invoices are coming out soon

In the next month, you will be receiving an electronic reminder for your annual Chamber dues. This is provided through our Membership Works software as a courtesy. We hope your membership in the Redmond Chamber is a key strategy for your success plan. Utilizing your membership to its fullest is key and we want you to maximize your benefits.

Now is the perfect time to access your membership information via the Membership Works portal and make any necessary updates. The Membership Works portal is very easy to navigate, and it allows you the opportunity to get creative with your Chamber listing. You can add your logo, a business card, offer discounts and coupons, post photos and

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JAKE WAARDENBURG STATE FARM INSURANCE PRESIDENT

RYAN CHURCHILL INITIATIVE BREWING 1ST VICE PRESIDENT

JUDY LAPORA

CROOKED RIVER RANCH AND MAINTENANCE 2ND VICE PRESIDENT

Eric Sande Executive Director

BRENDA TURNER

BRENDA TURNER CONSULTING PAST PRESIDENT

BEV CLARNO FMR. OREGON SECRETARY OF STATE

SEAN NEARY FITCH & NEARY PC

JENNIFER WERNER ALLIANCE PROFESSIONALS

much more. Please be sure to look over your contact information, double check your address, email, phone numbers and contact person to make sure all are correct. We are happy to help you update your information and to share some tips and tricks. If you have any questions, give Evelina a call at 541-923- 5191.

Also, we are ramping up creating the new Official Visitor and Business Guide for 2025-26! Your updated contact is vital to making this the best guide and directory possible. There are also a limited number of advertising opportunities available. To secure your spot in this award winning publication, give Connor Cubic a call here at the Chamber. There are various ad sizes available to fit any and every budget, Connor will take good care of you and find just the right spot in the Guide to represent you.

Happy Holidays

As we head into the holiday season, all of us here at the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB want to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

We are all thankful to be living in Redmond and having such a great Chamber family. We look forward to lighting up Redmond, and offering the Starlight Parade, Holiday Village Market, bring the Tree Lighting and Santa to Redmond. Be sure to stay tuned for more information and look for important dates and times in our Weekly Updates and at www.RedmondBuzz.com . Happy Thanksgiving!

LAURA GARCIA MAZATLAN MEXICAN RESTAURANT

DEBBIE BUTLER REDMOND INDUSTRIAL PARK

SUSAN SIMONSEN AMERITITLE

MAARTY LEUNEN SUMMIT BANK

RANDY GRAVES REDMOND SENIOR CENTER

Amanda Joe Luelling Events Director Connor Cubic Marketing Director

SUSAN BAKER INDIVIDUAL

TYRELL HOBBS FAIRWAY MORTGAGE

BRADY VELIKONIA KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY CENTRAL OREGON

BRANDI EBNER DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & EXPO

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

SCORE Central Oregon

Dennis Harvey Redmond OR 97756, US

503-975-7321

www.scorecentraloregon.org

Computer Shop of Redmond

Daniel Marcus

439 SW 6th Street, Redmond OR 97756, US 541-504-2844 www.redmondcomputershop.com

Freshen My Home

SandraCloud 541-325-2789

freshenmyhome.com

Welcome Home

Trudy Croco

229 SW 6th St, Redmond OR 97756, US 541-231-7349 Redmondwelcomehome.com

Balance Point Tax & Accounting LLC

MarilynBlair

708 SW Deschutes Ave, Ste 8, Redmond OR 97756, US 541-527-1225

https://www.balancepointtax.com/

The Environmental Center

Lindsey Hardy

16 NW Kansas Ave, Bend OR 97703, US 541-385-6908 envirocenter.org

Pacific Northwest Audiology

Melisa Zimmerman

845 SW Veterans Way, Redmond OR 97756, US 541-275-1712

www.pnwaudiology.com

Bill Sizemore Painting

Rebekah Trammel

688 SW Veterans Way Suite 7, Redmond OR 97756, US 503-689-7399

billsizemorepainting.com

Deby Grant, LMT

Deby Grant

1958 SW 27th St, Redmond OR 97756, US 541-419-5659

Chamber of Commerce Proposes Partnership for Destination Development and Guest Services as City of Redmond Shifts Tourism Focus

Redmond, OR – Earlier this year, the City of Redmond decided to redirect tourism tax dollars to a Portland-based creative agency to develop a new branding and marketing campaign for Redmond. This has created a gap in the services that Redmond can provide to visitors, including destination development, destination management, and group business, that have historically been fulfilled by the Chamber under its contract with the City.

While the new branding and marketing initiative aims to elevate Redmond’s profile, the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is seeking to continue its vital role in supporting the local tourism infrastructure, with a holistic approach to destination management. The Chamber has a longstanding history of providing destination development and essential guest services to visitors, including tourism information, business referrals, recreation itineraries, and community event promotion.

The Redmond Chamber is proposing a new collaborative partnership with the City of Redmond. This partnership would allow Redmond to continue offering destination development, management and comprehensive guest services to visitors and residents alike. The Chamber is requesting the City’s support in covering a portion of the cost of these services. This will help ensure the continuation of these community events and services.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the services the Chamber is asking the City to support:

Destination Management & Development

Free Summer Concert Series (Music On The Green)

Fireworks

Official Redmond Visitor Guide

Holiday Events: 4th of July Parade

Halloween (Trick Or Treat On 6th Street)

Veterans Day Parade Insurance

Christmas Events

Starlight Parade

Holiday Village Market

Town Christmas Tree & Lighting

Santa’s Mailbox

Downtown & Centennial Park Lights (Winter & Spring Seasons)

Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)

Welcome Center Services

Phone Inquiry Responses

Visitor Walk-In Assistance

Regional Promotional Magazines, Guides & Brochures

Visitor Guide & Relocation Packet Postage

Local Tourism Representation

Group Business & Convention Services

Event Seed Money & Sponsorships

"These events and services are the heartbeat of our community, from our signature summer concerts to our beloved holiday traditions," added Eric Sande, Executive Director. "Partnering with the City of Redmond will ensure that we can continue to serve both our visitors and residents, creating memorable experiences that keep Redmond thriving.”

Feedback from the public is welcomed by the Chamber. In addition, reach out to the Mayor and City Council to express your support for this partnership. Together, we can ensure these services continue to enrich our community for years to come.

Contact:

Eric Sande

Executive Director, Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB

541-923-5191

10 European Style Kiosks & Numerous PopUp Vendors

You know the holiday season is in full swing once these cozy little buildings arrive in Downtown Redmond. Styled a er the markets in europe, these kiosks house some beautiful creations made right here in Central Oregon. There is space for 20 popup vendors in this outdoor market, we accept makers, bakers, and self starters. Of course power is included for all vendors so feel ee to bring a little heater for the season!

Santa will also be making appearances! Full schedule coming soon. This is a fabulous photo opportunity for the whole family so dont forget to bring your camera!

November 29th & 30th om 10am - 4pm

December 7th om 10am - 4pm

December 14th om 10am - 4pm

Join us on November 30th for a dazzling Starlight Parade in Downtown Redmond! As Clara, the Nutcracker, and I guide you through this enchanting evening, you’ll be mesmerized by the twinkling lights, magical floats, and festive music. The magic begins at 5 PM on 6th Street, so be sure to find your spot early to witness the wonders of our Nutcracker-themed parade. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this holiday tradition—sign up today, and let the magic unfold!

After the parade, listen for the High School choir singing carols in Centennial park as you make your way over to watch Santa light the town christmas tree! Join in on the singing or check out the vendor market! Sign ups are live online and will be open until the 18th! For more information reach out to Amanda Joe by phone or email:

541-923-5191 or events@visitredmondoregon.com

MEMBERSHIP update

Greetings To All Of Our Amazing Members!

I can’t believe the end of the year is almost here! During the last couple of months of the year, businesses spend time planning for the year ahead. Let’s talk a little about how becoming a Chamber member should be part of your organization’s year end discussion.

Joining the Redmond Chamber of Commerce at the end of the year is like giving your business a head start on the New Year before anyone else even laces up their running shoes. Sure, you could join anytime, but closing out the year as a Chamber member sets you up with connections, insights, and opportunities that other businesses might only start pursuing in January. Here’s why jumping in now isn’t just smart, it’s almost essential if you want to start the next year with a bang.

First, let’s talk about the financial perks. Chambers of Commerce are designed to help local businesses thrive, and a big part of that is through member discounts, resources, and access to local economic data. Many Chambers (including Redmond’s) connect businesses with other businesses offering essential services that are often either permanently or temporarily discounted for Chamber members. Discounts include, but are not limited to, services that businesses are going to need at tax season, like accounting, payroll, and even marketing. With year-end budgeting on everyone’s mind, these discounts can help you wrap up your finances smoothly and set aside funds for the initiatives you really want to launch in the New Year.

But the financial upside goes beyond discounts. Joining the Chamber gives you access to networking events and connections with local leaders and other business owners, which can be invaluable for finding potential clients, partners, and mentors. The best part? Most memberships are structured annually, so joining now means you get access for all of next year, but you can start making those connections today. So, think of it as an investment in your growth—and it’s one that pays dividends through the relationships you’ll build over the months ahead.

Now, let’s look at the business forecasting angle. Every savvy business owner knows that the best way to succeed is to plan ahead, and no one has their finger on the pulse of

Redmond’s business climate quite like the Redmond Chamber of Commerce. By joining at the end of the year, you get access to insider information on local economic trends, potential challenges, and growth sectors. Redmond’s Chamber hosts expert panels, economic outlook meetings, and exclusive seminars that can offer insight into what’s coming. Think of it as a chance to peek into a crystal ball—only this one is backed by real data.

The timing is especially strategic. With fresh information from the Chamber, you can build your 2025 strategy with confidence and agility. Are certain sectors poised for growth? Are there new regulations on the horizon that might affect your business? What’s the buzz in Redmond around commercial real estate or labor trends? These are the insights the Chamber provides, which are invaluable as you start setting goals and targets for the coming year.

And finally, joining now is just plain fun. Chambers are famous for their holiday mixers and year-end events—ideal settings for relaxed networking without the “strictly business” vibe. These events give you a chance to introduce yourself and your business to the community in a festive, low-pressure setting. It's like being at a great party where everyone actually wants to hear about what you do, and connections are formed with a bit of eggnog and holiday cheer.

To sum it up, joining the Redmond Chamber of Commerce now is a bit like hitting the New Year’s sales a week early—no one wants to miss out! You’re not only saving money and gaining valuable insights, but you’re also positioning yourself for a productive, profitable new year. So, take the plunge, get a head start, and watch your business take off as soon as the ball drops. Give us a call at (541) 923-5191 or email membership@ visitredmondoregon.com with any follow up questions or to join today!

Evelina Davidson

Membership

& Finance Director

Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB

MEMBER BYTES

Fitch & Neary

Sean Neary of Fitch & Neary PC was recently selected to Cascade Business News’ Accomplished Under 40 List. Sean has been practicing in Redmond since 2013 and became Managing Partner at Fitch & Neary in 2019. His practice includes estate planning and trust administration, business transactions, contracts, and bankruptcy. He was also selected as a Rising Star earlier this year in the area of Estate Planning and Probate. Sean has previously served as Redmond Chamber Board President, REDI Board President, and on other City Committees. In addition to estate planning and business transactions, Fitch & Neary provides general legal services including personal injury, real estate, land use, and litigation.

Redmond Community Choir holiday concert: The Redmond Community Choir will present their “Sounds of the Season” concert on Sunday, December 15th at 4PM in the Redmond High School Auditorium. The concert will include traditional and contemporary choral works, as well as fresh arrangements of traditional carols and holiday music from around the world. Redmond Community Choir is a highlighted COCC Community Education program.

Annual Redmond Crab Crack

The Annual Redmond Crab Crack, produced by the Redmond Executive Association (REA) and presented by Summit Bank, has become legendary in our community. The tradition continues February 1, 2025, with the opportunity for friends, family, and colleagues to celebrate all that is Redmond and enjoy some of the most delicious Oregon Dungeness Crab available. Did we mention all-youcan-eat crab? Historically, tickets for the Crab Crack sell out in less than an hour. With this in mind, we are excited to announce: 2025 Crab Crack Tickets go on sale

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

5 PM at Wildride Brewing 332 SW 5th Street in Redmond

$65 per person

Please note that tickets can only be purchased in person on December 4th at 5 PM, are not available online, and there is a limit of 10 tickets per person.

Proceeds from the Crab Crack will help support the Redmond area High School internship program.

We would like to thank all our sponsors who make this event possible. Follow us: Facebook.com/RedmondCrabCrack for event up-dates and sponsor spotlights.

See you all on Dec. 4 for the ticket sale gathering at Wildride Brewing, and Feb. 1 for the best party in town!

The Enviromental Center

We're hosting a Repair Café in partnership with Deschutes Public Library on Wednesday, November 20th, 5:30-7:30pm. It will be held at Redmond Proficiency Academy, 657 SW Glacier Ave #2710, Redmond, OR 97756 (on the corner of Glacier Ave and 7th Ave). Folks can RSVP here, and we're also looking for fixer volunteers.

Got a broken something? Bring it to this free Repair Café! The Environmental Center's Rethink Waste Project hosts Repair Cafés, which are free events that connect people with broken stuff with people who like to fix stuff. Stuff like jewelry, small appliances and electronics, outdoor gear, clothing, and more.

ECONOMICupdate

REDI NEWS & BREWS SHOWCASES BASALITE EXPANSION, AND INSIDER PERSPECTIVES ON BUSINESS LENDING

Submitted by REDI Staff

Redmond’s neighbors and business leaders gathered at General Duff y’s Annex in October to network and hear the latest news from REDI and learn insider tips on business financing from local lenders in the traditional lending arena as well as some non- traditional lending organizations. Updates on Redmond’s Economic Outlook

REDI Director, Steve Curley provided updates on multiple development projects fostering growth in Redmond. Highlights included Nosler's 78,000 square foot expansion, Wild Mike's Pizza's groundbreaking plans, and Western Bus Sales’ new service facility. Additionally, BASX completed a 36,000 square foot weld shop expansion featuring state-of-the-art equipment. These projects, alongside 400-500 new housing units, and infrastructure improvements like the Eastside arterial project, are pivotal in accommodating anticipated economic and population growth.

Strategic Business Expansion in Redmond

One of Redmond’s notable projects is the expansion of Basalite Concrete Products, a local building supplier and manufacturer of masonry units, pavers, retaining walls, and outdoor fireplaces & fire pits. Operations manager, Alistair Schwarzenberger, and Sales representatives Vinny Ceccarelli and Will Fisher from Basalite, detailed an expansive business venture moving to Redmond. This expansion involves a 60,000-70,000 square foot facility on 14 acres, including a 9,000 square foot facility showcasing products for contractors and homeowners. The move from Washington to Redmond was driven by favorable market conditions and the strategic central location in Oregon. The site will utilize locally sourced raw materials, aside from specific international supplies, and aims to ramp up employment, adding up to 75 new jobs.

Insights from Industry Experts on Financial Strategies

Businesses got an insider view from a panel of lending experts. The discussion, moderated by Gary O’Connell of Summit Bank, explored the complexities of the current interest rate cycle and its impact on businesses. The panel featured Ashley Horner from Summit Bank, Ali Paman-Dupier from Craft3, and Patrick Germick from COIC, who provided diverse perspectives on lending models and economic climates.

Germick shed light on COIC’s role as a non-traditional lender, emphasizing their flexibility and partnerships with traditional banks to support businesses otherwise unable to secure loans. Key topics included credit stress factors, such as sales and supply chain concentration, factors that play into the lending landscape including prime rate changes, and the Federal Reserve’s decisions on

lending rates. Panelists also responded to predictions of rate increases and declines influenced by the bond market and inflation costs. Panelists underscored two key pieces of valuable advice for businesses: early engagement with lenders and financial preparedness. Ashley Horner emphasized the importance of early engagement with bankers and transparent communication to secure confidence and funding. The panelists advised businesses to maintain financial transparency, readiness for stress testing, and a strong understanding of their financial metrics to improve their chances of securing loans and navigating economic fluctuations successfully.

REDI events like News & Brews help you stay informed of what is happening with Redmond’s local business, economic growth and prosperity. Staying in touch with our community matters. That is why we believe Redmond is a great place to call home, stay informed and visit us often at rediinfo.com. and follow us on LinkedIn.

You can view the event on REDI’s YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/FiQ8-OSyVbQ

Ask the Expert – Choosing a Business Structure

Q: I’ve been thinking about creating a natural beverages business. I will be working alone, part time, and don’t anticipate having employees. What are my businessstructure options?

A: Congratulations on thinking through your new business! The structure of a business can affect the need to register the business with the state, tax status and the owner’s liability.

Here are some options as a solopreneur:

1) Sole proprietorship: Many entrepreneurs choose this when they start to test the market without a lot of expense and paperwork. If you are making and selling your natural beverages in your name (e.g., Jane Doe), you do not have to register.

One of the advantages of the sole proprietorship is you do not have to file a business tax return; any profits or losses are reported on your personal tax return. The disadvantages can be working alone and making all of the decisions, being responsible for all of the money and carrying all of the risk. The sole owner can be held personally liable for business debts and obligations.

2) Assumed Business Name: If instead, you open “JD Natural Beverages,” then you are creating a business name that needs to be registered in Oregon with the Secretary of State as an assumed business name, or ABN. In other states, this is known as doing business as, or DBA.

3) Limited Liability Corporation: In your situation, you could choose instead — or after you have some experience — to create a limited liability corporation (LLC). Registering as an LLC provides additional visibility and credibility, and can protect your personal property from risk in case of bankruptcy or legal claims.

For taxes, the annual profit or loss can get passed through to your personal income tax filing without the need to file a corporate tax return. However, in an LLC you will be considered self employed and must pay self-employment tax contributions toward Medicare and Social Security.

There are other forms of business structure, including partnerships and other types of corporations. The Small Business Administration offers additional guidance: sba.gov/business-guide.

Because every Oregon business needs to renew its state registration annually and there may be other local and industry registrations required, it’s a good idea to seek advice from your CPA, tax accountant or attorney.

Central Oregon Community College has a Small Business Development Center that offers free, confidential professional business advising and a variety of low-cost courses to help entrepreneurs through the business lifecycle: cocc.edu/sbdc.

About the Expert:

With decades of small business ownership, teaching and advising experience, Sue Meyer is proud to serve with the team of business advisers at Central Oregon Community College’s Small Business Development Center.

BUSINESS WITH THE LIBRARY

by Liisa Sjoblom, Redmond Community Librarian

Liisa Sjoblom is a Community Librarian with the Deschutes Public Library. If you have a business research need or help finding grants for your nonprofit, contact her at liisas@deschuteslibrary.org or 541-617-7093.

Building Your Business: Funding Resources You Need to Know

Securing funding for a new business can be challenging. Most banks hesitate to lend to small businesses without an established track record, and some lenders have specific restrictions on certain industries. Th is is largely due to risk assessment and management. To strengthen your application, be ready to leverage your personal savings and credit to demonstrate your commitment to the business.

Here are some valuable resources to consider:

Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council: Th is organization offers a business loan program focused on microloans, ideal for startups or addressing specific needs for existing businesses. For more details, reach out to Patrick Germick at pgermick@coic.org or call 541-280-9611. Visit their site at coic2.org.

Craft3: Th is community-focused organization has a local office in Bend and supports startups. Explore their offerings at craft3.org.

Local Banks and Credit Unions: Most institutions provide a range of business products and can advise you on additional funding options. Your current bank or credit union can be a trusted ally in your growth journey.

Business Oregon: As a state agency, they offer guidance and resources for funding your small business. While their headquarters is in Salem, they have a local office in Central Oregon. Check out their programs at oregon.gov/biz.

Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA provides various funding options, including loans, grants, and disaster assistance. Review their programs at sba.gov/ funding-programs to find the right fit for your needs.

In addition to these resources, consider exploring peer-to-peer lending and crowdfunding. A quick online search for “creative financing for business” can uncover even more alternative funding options.

Service Spotlight: Educator and Student Resources

We’re here to help with your instructional and study needs! We can help classroom teachers and homeschool parents with things like curriculum crates, creating book lists, doing book talks, reserving books and other items, and more. We also offer powerful resources that can help students with assignments and homework as they explore the curriculum. We even host Battle of the Books teams—sign-

ups are happening now. Be sure to bookmark our Educator & Student Services page (https://www.deschuteslibrary.org/services/school) on our website for help throughout the school year.

Check Out the Progress on the Redmond Library

It's all happening! Books (and books and books) are being delivered to the new Redmond Library now and into October, and staff will soon begin putting them on shelves (https://bit.ly/bookmoving). At the same time, we'll soon start moving in furniture and getting ready to train staff on the new building systems and procedures. We can't wait for you to browse the shelves of the new Redmond Library when it opens (currently targeting sometime in December)! To be the first to know when an opening date is set, sign up for Redmond Library Updates at dpl.pub/newsletters. To see a photo album of the building progress, visit our Flickr page at https://bit.ly/DPLRedmondPhotos.

Books NEW

The Venture Mindset by I.A. Strebulaev (https://bit.ly/ dplventure)

This transformative playbook offers a new mindset inspired by venture capitalists, focusing on spotting trends and fostering innovation. It presents nine principles to help leaders enhance decision-making, embrace failure, and deliver extraordinary results in any industry. A mustread for today’s leaders.

Designing Brand Identity by Alina Wheeler (https://bit. ly/dpldesigning)

This updated edition offers essential tools and best practices for successful branding, covering fundamentals, process, and strategy. It includes new case studies and perspectives to help professionals navigate today’s complex branding challenges and the rapidly changing digital landscape.

NEWS FROM Hiking Trails in Crooked River Ranch

the ranch

- by Brenda Cooper

As the heat of the Central Oregon summer is slowly passing, it’s the perfect temperature outside to do some local hiking and Crooked River Ranch is just the place to fit a nice weekend hike in. Although, a long hot summer hike on some of the traills lead to the fresh river waters that tempt trekkers to jump right in for a cool down to beat the heat, fall is especially spectacular.

The first is the Otter Bench Trail which is a long, relatively narrow desert flat about two-thirds of the way up in the Crooked River Canyon. BLM built a trailhead at the end of Chinook Dr and Horny Hollow Rd to accommodate this scenic trail. The trailhead includes the Opal Canyon Loop, Pink, Otter Bench and Lone Pine Trails and is on the lower level of the Ranch right above the Crooked River.

There are three recently updated trails on the Deschutes River side of the Ranch. Scout Camp is the farthest of the three trails. It is located at the end of Scout Camp Rd. and is a difficult 2.4-mile-long loop down into the Deschutes Canyon. The next is Steelhead Falls Trailhead with a half mile hike into the canyon to see the river-wide water falls on the Deschutes River. This is an easy to moderate hike and not recommended for horses. A hike less traveled is the Folley Waters Trailhead. This hike is one of several that leads into the beautiful river gorge carved out of rock. Folley Waters is actually more of a fishing destination than a hike being only a quarter mile from the trailhead to the Deschutes River. Located just south of the Steelhead Falls Trailhead, the trailhead is at the end of Steelhead Falls campground. This trail offers an incredibly beautiful hiking destination.

One of the longer hikes is the Arena/Rim Trail, three miles of easy trail for hiking or horseback. While not as scenic as the other trails, this trail offers a great opportunity for a nice horseback ride. Follow Chinook Dr down the hill and park beside the horse-riding arena. This trail follows behind the RV park and goes along the rim of the Crooked River and then turns back along the pasture fence, crosses Chinook Dr and goes back to the arena along the hillside following the Disk Golf course.

You haven’t fully experienced Crooked River Ranch unless you’ve unintentionally gotten lost or have done one or all of these hikes.

MARKETING memo

By: Connor Cubic

Boost Your Business with Free Marketing Opportunities through the Redmond Chamber of Commerce

When it comes to marketing, small businesses often face unique challenges. Limited budgets, time constraints, and the constant balancing act of managing operations and growth can make it difficult to spread the word about products, services, and upcoming events. That’s where the Redmond Chamber of Commerce can help! As a member, your business has access to valuable, free marketing tools designed to help you reach both the local community and Redmond’s visitors. Here’s how these opportunities can work for you:

1. Weekly “Member Updates” Email

Every week, the Redmond Chamber sends a "Member Updates" email to a growing list of over 1,300 contacts, reaching a wide audience of local businesses, community members, and potential customers. This email is perfect for promoting time-sensitive updates, such as:

Special sales or limited-time offers

Upcoming events and community activities

New services or products your business has introduced Sharing your updates here keeps your brand top-of-mind among fellow Chamber members and helps you reach new potential clients through a trusted source. It’s quick, easy, and one of the most effective ways to create awareness in the local market.

2. Social Media Sharing and Promotion

The Chamber has a strong social media presence across platforms that matter, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. By tagging or direct messaging us with your most share-worthy posts, we can help amplify your message, reaching a broader audience through:

Instagram/Facebook Stories – Perfect for visually engaging updates, such as new product launches, behind-the-scenes peeks, or highlights from recent events.

Facebook Feed – A great platform to showcase news, initiatives, or promotions with followers who want to stay updated on local business happenings.

LinkedIn – Ideal for professional updates and networking, LinkedIn can expand your business’s reach within a broader community of professionals.

This social media exposure doesn’t just drive followers to your pages; it also strengthens your credibility through association with the Chamber.

3. Monthly “Member Byte” in Chamber Business News

The monthly “Member Byte” provides Chamber members with around 200 words of dedicated space to showcase their business in our Chamber Business News. This free opportunity lets you share a short profile or update with our entire mailing list. It’s an excellent platform to:

Introduce your business to fellow members

Share a noteworthy milestone or achievement

Highlight special offerings or unique services

This feature helps you build brand recognition and trust among other Chamber members and the local community. It's also a great way to remind the community of your ongoing contributions to Redmond.

4. Visitor-Centered Marketing with “Visit Redmond Oregon”

For businesses that attract tourists or cater to visitor experiences, marketing through the “Visit Redmond Oregon” platform offers a tailored approach. You can tap into:

Social Media Sharing on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where we can promote visitor-focused content such as new attractions, special events, or seasonal promotions.

Quarterly Visit Redmond Email, featuring attractions and events for tourists to experience in Redmond.

This is a fantastic way to bring more foot traffic to your business, boost event attendance, and showcase Redmond as a destination with memorable experiences.

Why These Marketing Channels Matter

For small businesses, these free marketing options provide an essential boost. The reach of the Redmond Chamber’s email and social media platforms can introduce your business to hundreds of new potential customers at no cost. Plus, the targeted nature of each platform ensures your updates reach relevant audiences who are likely to engage and support local businesses.

By making the most of these Chamber-driven channels, your business not only saves on marketing costs but also gains the support of a community that’s rooting for your success. So, don’t hesitate to get involved, and let us help you maximize your membership benefits!