Business 2012 Klamath County Chamber of Commerce
December
Basin
Inside This Issue: • • • • • •
New Business Assistance - pg 2 Median Home Prices Increase - pg 4 Celebrate Christmas with Yummy’s - pg. 5 Annual Awards Gala Tickets On Sale Now - pg 6 Santa at Oregon Gift Store - pg. 9 Chamber Award Nominations - pg. 10
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Basin Business
Snowflake Parade Tonight
The 2012 Snowflake Parade sponsored by Walmart of Klamath Falls will take place in downtown Klamath Falls tonight - December 6, 2012. The parade will begin at 7 p.m. and travel down Main Street. Over 100 businesses, organizations, and families have entered this year’s parade. Parade-goers can expect creative, whimsical floats decorated to thrill people of all ages. The parade will be broadcast on Channel 15 (for those with Charter)
approximately an hour after the end of the parade. The broadcast will air three times a day throughout the month of December. The event will also be streamed online throughout the month at www.kfgov.com. The Chamber would like to thank EagleRidge High School for making the broadcast possible. For more information on the parade or the Chamber, visit www. klamath.org or call (541) 884-5193.
Rural Microenterprise Assistance Program Helps New Business
A new business, Mac and Cheese Steaks Food Cart, has started with funding through the Rural Microenterprise Assistance Program administered by South Central Oregon Economic Development District. Chef/Owner Chris Hoss had his opening October 29, 2012 and his cart is parked near Bogey’s Coffee and Smoothies on Campus Drive. He is serving various Cheese steak sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and has additional culinary treats listed on his menu and on his Facebook page. He is currently serving Mondays through Fridays from 10 am to 6 pm. Chris is also a participant in SCOEDD’s DreamSavers program. Chris is looking to save $2,000 which will then be matched with $6,000 with a total of $8,000 to be used for additional items needed to make his
business successful. The Rural Microenterprise Assistance Program is a loan program for both start ups and existing businesses lending up to $50,000. These funds may be used for working capital or to purchase inventory, supplies, furniture, fixtures, machinery and/or equipment, debt refinancing and purchase of existing businesses. The Micro Loan program focuses not only on credit but includes oneto-one counsel and guidance. This technical assistance combination is necessary to provide the highest opportunity for success. With technical assistance on a regular basis, we can guide the business owner in management, marketing and financial matters, while striving to see the business succeed and grow.
12 Ranch Wines Offers Gift Boxes
12 Ranch Wines is offering customized gift boxes. for the holidays. We would love to help you put together that perfect gift for business associates, friends or family. It is a great way to show off what the Klamath Basin has to offer. Locally produced wine, “tater Pics”, soup
mixes and lots of chocoate goodies all packaged together with a big bow and ready to be shipped or hand delivered. Give us a call we would be happy to show you what we can do for you. We also have gift boxes on display at M’Bellish at 522 Main street and will be there personally pouring wines Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays noon to 5pm. Stop by and say hi! 541-545-1204 or wine@12ranchwines.com.
Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Próximamente! Chamber - Comunidad Latina
Pronto vamos a añadir una página web para nuestra comunidad que habla español. Si desea más información sobre los próximos eventos de la comunidad. Si usted es un negocio y miembro de la Cámara de comercio Hispana y le gustaría saber cómo tomar ventaja de las muchas maneras en que podemos ayudarle a promover sus próximos eventos, llamenos, estamos aqui para servirles. Algunos de nuestros beneficios encluyen: promover su negocio a través de la publicacione de “Basin Business” que se distribuye a más de 15,500 personas mensualmente en la ciudad. Este
servicio es gratuito para nuestros miembros y se puede enviar un artículo nuevo cada mes, también a promovemos a través de nuestra página de internet. Hay muchas avenidas más que nos encantaría compartir con ustedes. Llámenos para que podamos discutir cómo ayudar a su empresa o negocio crecer más rápido y más fuerte a través de oportunidades de aprendisaje o contactos de negocios. uno de los grandes beneficios de ser un miembro de la cámara es que tienen a alguien que abogará de su parte con asuntos que afectan sus derechos y los representaran con los lideres de esta cuidad.
Chamber Annual Christmas Open House
The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual holiday open house on December 13th from 5 to 7 pm. “This event is our way of saying thank you to our members and the community,” says Charles Massie, the Chamber’s Executive Director. The open house will feature food, fun, and networking. Appetizers and drinks will be provided by local businesses and the public is invited to attend. From today through December 13th, the Chamber will serve as a donation point for the Toys for Tots program. Mr. Massie says, “Helping with the Toys for Tots drive allows us to give back to our community by helping children in need experience the joy of Christmas.” You can help
by dropping off a new, unwrapped toy at the Chamber offices, 205 Riverside Drive, Suite A. All toys are provided to children in our local community. The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce has served Klamath County since 1905. It is a memberbased organization made up of businesses and individuals who work together with the Chamber to advance the civic, economic, industrial, professional, and cultural life of our county. If you are interested in learning more about the Chamber, call (541) 884-5193, visit the website www.klamath.org, or email heathert@klamath.org to schedule an appointment or request a membership packet.
The docetroyr is in ev day! Licensed Physician On Duty On Site X-Ray, Lab, EKG Evaluation • Treatment • Physicals Occupational Health Services Insurance Billing
Here’s to a
HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON!
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Thursday, December 6, 2012 Herald and News
Basin Business
Millard Dental Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
From left to right: Teddy Williams (T. Williams Company), Carolina Whittemore, Teresa Pimental, Jeannine Gerhardt, Dr Robert Millard, Cynthia Millard, Rachelle Jones, Jenine Stuedli (South Valley Bank and Trust), Megan Titus (Eldorado Heights Assisted Living), and David Alvarado (Sysco Foods). having a healthy, bright smile enhancDr. Millard has over 15 years experience in the dental field and is es our overall confidence. We offer excited to be home serving the great a wide array of services including people of the Klamath basin. Dr. cleanings, fillings, crowns, periodonMillard was raised in Klamath Falls, tal treatment, endodontic treatment attended Keno Elementary, then and implant placement and restoraHenley High School and gradution. We are also proud to offer same ated from OIT with a BS in Dental day crown placement with our Cerec Hygiene. He later attended Indiana Milling machine. At Millard Dental School of Dentistry as well as comwe are committed to providing the pleting a one year general anesthesia highest quality and most advanced fellowship with IU Medical School. dentistry in the basin along with the Dr. Millard is honest, caring, com- highest level of customer service in passionate and truly understands that the industry.
Free Radio Advertising for New Members
Basin Mediactive, LLC is offering new Klamath County Chamber of Commerce members $500 in radio advertising. This is a great way to get your business and your message in front of the Basin’s largest listening audience. After you join the Chamber, you’ll be contacted by a Basin Mediactive, LLC Advertising professional. The radio pro will meet with you and then set up your one week, $500 bonus schedule. Free advertising and free advice from the Klamath Basin’s
most trusted media company. For more information on this offer or Chamber membership, visit www.klamath.org or call (541) 884-5193. Chamber membership is affordable and starts at just $129.00 per year. Members enjoy special promotions, free event listings, many networking opportunities and much, much more.
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US Bank Surpasses Veteran Hiring Goal U.S. Bank has surpassed its military hiring goal for 2012, in time to mark the Veterans Day holiday. U.S. Bank now employs more than 2,300 veterans nationwide, and continues in its efforts to recruit veterans. “U.S. Bank is firmly committed to employing and supporting veterans, active-duty service members and their families,” said Richard Davis, chairman, president and chief executive officer of U.S. Bancorp, parent company of U.S. Bank. “Veterans bring valuable leadership skills to their organization, with experience and perspective that strengthens our company. We honor them and all who serve on Veterans Day and every day, for their commitment to our country and protection of our freedom.” In addition, this is the second consecutive year that U.S. Bank has been recognized by G.I. Jobs as a Top 100 Military Friendly Employer, which highlights companies for the strength of their military recruiting efforts, the percentage of new hires with prior military service and policies toward providing exemplary benefits for employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. The ranking is featured in the magazine’s December issue and online at www. gijobs.com. Also, U.S. Veterans Magazine listed U.S. Bank on its 2012 Best of the Best: Top 100 Companies Recruiting Veterans. The survey results are published in the November 2012 special Veterans Day edition. Last June, Military Times magazine named U.S. Bank as one of just 39 companies in its Best of Vets annual survey. U.S. Bank achieved its hiring goals by implementing several recruiting and training programs specifically for veterans through its Proud to Serve program (http://proudtoserve.usbank.com). In 2011, U.S. Bank launched a Military Leadership Development Program, which has resulted in several veterans success-
fully transitioning into leadership positions in the bank in Seattle and San Diego. The Military LDP is expanding to include Minneapolis, Los Angeles and Orange County, Calif. in 2013. U.S. Bank enhanced its HR policies for veterans in 2012, including offering employees up to two weeks paid leave to cover time they would otherwise take off unpaid, per state or federal law, in connection with a family member’s military service. Depending on state laws, the time can be taken not only with the deployment of a child, parent or spouse, but may be available to extended family as well. U.S. Bank continued to offer customers special support through the U.S. Bank Military Service Center (1-800-934-9555), a dedicated customer service line for military members and their families that is staffed with bankers familiar with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. The Military Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time, with back-up support from U.S. Bank 24hour banking during off hours. Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), with $352 billion in assets as of September 30, 2012, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association, the fifth-largest commercial bank in the United States. The Company operates 3,086 banking offices in 25 states and 5,080 ATMs and provides a comprehensive line of banking, brokerage, insurance, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services products to consumers, businesses and institutions. U.S. Bancorp and its employees are dedicated to improving the communities they serve, for which the company earned the 2011 Spirit of America Award, the highest honor bestowed on a company by United Way. Visit U.S. Bancorp on the web at www.usbank.com.
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Basin Business
Exchange Club Supports Junior Achievement Programs
Scott Stevens, M.D. Physician/ Surgeon of the Eye
Klamath Falls’ Median Home Price Increases
While this may not seem like a pulse-pounding headline, this is big news in the Klamath Falls real estate market. We have not seen price increases for many years as we’ve weathered the housing downturn, an abundance of foreclosures, and loss in personal home equity. There are several factors contributing to this increase including, but not limited to: a lower rate of foreclosures on the market, a lowerthan-normal housing inventory, and incredibly low interest rates. These have combined to produce multiple offer situations and full-price offers rience the realities and opportunities on many houses currently for sale. While this is good news and shows of work and entrepreneurship in the that we may be entering a period of 21st-century global marketplace. stabilization, there is still much that Pictured left to right, Jodi Kucera JA needs to happen before we can say Chairman; Teddy Williams, JA Board we are truly coming out of the housMember; Deanna Wilson JA District ing downturn. Mortgage lenders still Manager; and Sam Houston, The Exhave strict financing conditions, with change Club representative. many would-be purchasers unable to meet the minimum credit score requirements. Much of the lowerpriced inventory is not in financeable condition and requires cash buyers. A large number of homeowners who would like to sell their existing home and either downsize or move Mark Fay, M.D. Jennifer Sparks, O.D. up cannot do so because the value Physician/ Surgeon of the Eye Optometrist of their home is still less than what they owe on it.
Junior Achievement would like to thank The Exchange Club for donating $500 to support local JA programs. Junior Achievement (JA) empowers young people to own their economic success. Our volunteer-delivered, kindergarten-12th grade programs foster workreadiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills, and use experiential learning to inspire students to dream big and reach their potential. Junior Achievement impacted more than 4.2 million U.S. students in more than 183,000 classrooms in the 2011-2012 school year. With the help of 178,000 volunteers, JA students develop the skills they need to expe-
New Patients Welcome
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Gently Used Furniture and Home Décor
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1330 East Main Street, Klamath Falls
541-883-1721
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Hours: Tues. – Sat. 11:00 – 3:00
(closed 1st Wed. of month) Profits benefit Operation School Bell® clothing Klamath Basin children in need
Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Until current homeowners are able to sell their home without being underwater, we will have a standstill of sorts in our inventory, which will continue to press the prices as demand is there and selection is not. Once that threshold breaks (and I have seen estimates anywhere from 2-10 years), our market could reverse in that we will have an abundance of inventory and may go back to a buyer’s market. It’s still too early to predict how we are going to come out of the housing downturn, but it’s pretty safe to say it will be a process with ups and downs along the way. Historically, housing inventory has been lowest in Klamath Falls in the winter and spring months. With the demand there and buyer choices limited, now may be a good time to talk to a real estate broker about what you can expect from the sale of your home and whether it’s a good time for you to take that real estate leap! Kim Swagert Broker, CRS, GRI, SFR Coldwell Banker Holman Premier Realty 3815 S. Sixth St. Klamath Falls, OR 97603 (541) 884-1343 - Office (541) 892-8777 - Cell (541) 883-7475 - Fax
Quail Park at Crystal Terrace Seeks Vendors for Bazaar
On Saturday, December 15, 2012, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Quail Park at Crystal Terrace will host a Holiday Bazaar. The Bazaar will be open to the public and will feature many items for sale. Quail Park at Crystal Terrace is seeking vendors who would like to participate in the Bazaar. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to call Kim at (541) 885-7250. Quail Park at Crystal Terrace is located at 1000 Town Center Drive in Klamath Falls.
Thursday, December 6, 2012 Herald and News
Basin Business
Mental Illness Awareness Week NAMI Klamath thanks all those agencies and people who helped make Mental Illness Awareness Week in Klamath County a huge success. We are so blessed to live in such a caring community. They are Children’s Museum, KYDC, IYS, Parks Dept., Oasis Drop-In Center, County Health Dept., Mental Health Dept on Vine St. , Access Center on Washburn Way, Klamath County Library, Klamath County Commissioners, Eagle Ridge High School, Klamath Tribe, Klamath Falls Gospel Mission and Pumpkin Patch. We would also like to thank First Presbyterian Church on Pine Street for allowing us to present our very first Peer-to-Peer class at their facility. NAMI (National Alliance on
Mental Illness) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI offers the Family-to-Family Education Program, Peer-to-Peer Recovery Education Program and Basics Education Program in the spring and in the fall each year. We facilitate family support groups twice each month, peer lead support groups twice each month and can give out information on any of the main mental health diagnosis. We are a non-profit organization and all of our services are free. For more information or the location of resources, contact us at 541-8854909 or namiklamath@yahoo.com.
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Relay for Life
Many in our community have been “touched” by cancer; either having received the dreaded diagnosis yourself, someone you love, or perhaps it was a coworker or acquaintance that heard those words, “you have cancer”. It is virtually impossible to find someone who hasn’t been affected in some way by this non discriminating disease. Have you ever thought about what A Christmas with Yummy’s you can do to help eliminate the words, “you’ve got cancer” from Yummy’s would like to wish the • Twice Baked Potatoes doctor’s vocabulary? Or how you Klamath Basin Happy Holidays! We • Green Beans with Bacon and can help cancer patients and their have been proudly serving you for Onion families who are in the midst of the 18 years and are looking forward to • Homemade Oatmeal Rolls battle? many more! • White Chocolate Peppermint Each year in Klamath County, ReBy popular demand we’ve Cheesecake lay For Life teams and hundreds of brought This community members come together back Dad’s dinner will to walk the track at Henley High turn to feed six School to raise cancer awareness and cook! Every to eight money to help the American CanThursday people cer Society fund National Cancer night we’ll and is be making affordably Research, toll free numbers for local patient counseling, travel assistance dinner for priced at 6 people all $90. Din- to patients who need to travel for cooked and ner can be treatment; including gas cards and ready to go! picked up lodging assistance, peer to peer supCall us by from 4pm port, Look Good Feel Good proWednesday until 6pm gram and much, much more. Relayers walk the track throughout the evening and at the The crew at Yummy’s Cowboy Cuisine wish you a Happy we’ll make Yummy’s day and night, we won’t sleep; cancer Holiday! sure to have Kitchen in doesn’t. We don’t just walk; we celebrate; your dinner downtown celebrate the survivors, those who ready! The menu will vary each week Merrill. have and are battling back against so give us a call or check out our Remember for all your catering Cancer. We remember; the loved Facebook to find each week’s menu. needs Yummy’s is here to serve! We ones, friends and acquaintances who We can deliver to your place of cater events both large and small. have lost their fight and we FIGHT business or you can pick up at our Contact us at (541)798-5700 or yumBACK; we learn how to be strong, kitchen in Merrill! myscowboycuisine@hotmail.com. how to protect ourselves and how to Yummy’s also presents “A ChristIf you would like to be added to our help. We celebrate the survivors in mas with Yummy’s” on Christmas email list please send us an email our community with gifts, a speEve. The menu includes: with your information. Don’t forget cial ceremony and free luncheon. • Prime Rib to find us on Facebook!
We honor those we’ve lost with a beautiful luminaria ceremony and time to remember and reflect. We have a fight back ceremony to keep us motivated in our fight. We also have a lot of fun; games, raffles, food, activities, music, movies, decorated tent sights, Mr. Relay competitions, carnival style games, races and so much more. If you have never been to Relay For Life in July you are missing out! It’s never too early to get involved in this year’s big event. Become a team, join a team, become a corporate sponsor, donate items or services to be auctioned off, host an independent fundraising event at your business or through your community organization; there are simply an endless amount of ways to be a part of Relay For Life of Klamath County. We are fighting so that one day CANCER will be eradicated from our world, please join us in this fight, you won’t be sorry! Join us on Saturday, January 26th from 10:00 am to noon at Shilo Inn, 2500 Almond St., Klamath Falls for an informational Kick Off Event and learn what Relay is all about and how YOU can be a part of something amazing! HELP CREATE MORE BIRTHDAYS! Join us Saturday, December 8th between 8 am and 10 am at Applebee’s Restaurant, for All You Can Eat Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser. For more information about becoming involved with Relay For Life of Klamath County you may contact Erika George, Local Event Chair, 541-880-8704, email klamathrelay@ gmail.com or Becky Collins, Team Development Chair, 541-281-4050, email kfteamd@gmail.com
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Basin Business
Upcoming Events Chamber Events Greeters Cimarron Inn 3060 S. 6th December 13 8 to 9 a.m. 11th Annual Christmas Open House 205 Riverside Drive December 13th 5 to 7 p.m.
92nd Annual Awards Gala January 19, 2013 Ross Ragland Theater Tickets on Sale Now Call (541) 884-5193 Now scheduling Greeters in 2013 - call to reserve a date now! Visit www.klamath.org for more information.
Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Celebrate Safely Pacific Power wishes you and your loved ones a happy and safe holiday season. Please remember these important safety tips: • When installing outdoor lights, keep ladders at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. • Turn off light displays before leaving home or going to bed. • Inspect and make sure decorative lights have no frayed wires, cracked sockets or connections that may cause a fire or electrical injury. • Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lights. For more electrical safety tips, go to pacificpower.net/safety or call us toll free at 1-888-221-7070.
CASA Fundraiser Offers Beautiful Hand-Crafted Jewelry
CASA for Children of Klamath County is a non-profit organization that trains community volunteers to provide a voice to children in foster 92nd Annual Awards Gala care. This holiday season, CASA is offering beauTickets on Sale Now tiful, handTickets are on sale now for the economic development; First Citi- crafted jewelry Klamath County Chamber of zen, to an individual who has dedi- to raise money Commerce 92nd Annual Awards cated countless hours of service to for the proGala sponsored by South Valley Klamath County and our commu- gram. For Bank and Trust. This Hollywoodnities; and the Member of the Year, every $600 style awards show is scheduled to a member of the Chamber of raised, CASA for January 19, 2013 at the Ross Commerce who has given extraor- can advocate Ragland Theater. dinary support to the Chamber, for another Executive Director Charles its events, programs, membership foster youth Massie says, “The awards show and the community. This year the for one year. is the Chamber’s opportunity Chamber has added a Green Busi- Your purto recognize the businesses and ness of the Year award which will chase helps to individuals in the community that go to a business that has demonraise awaremake a difference.” Each year the strated green business practices. ness for the Chamber presents awards at the Tickets are $29.50 per person 108 children annual gala including Business of and include complimentary hors in Klamath the Year, recognizing a business d’ouvres and wine. To purchase County that that provides exceptional products tickets, call the Ross Ragland Theare waiting for and/or services as well as commu- ater box office at 541-884-LIVE. a CASA. nity support; Distinguished Service, For more information on the event For sale are: lanyards ($15), pento an individual in an organization or the Chamber, visit www.klamath. dants ($17), earrings ($12 each or who has done extraordinary work org or call (541) 884-5193. $20 for 2 pair), keychains ($7), and on behalf of Klamath County in bracelets ($15 each or $25 for 2).
The holiday jewelry displays are featured at Matteo’s, Sherm’s Thunderbird, Next of Kiln, and Mermaid Garden Café. This fundraising will help CASA expand to reach their goal to advocate for each and every child placed into foster care. They are currently advocating for approximately 40% of these children and with your help, CASA hopes to close the gap by the end of 2020. For more information about purchasing the jewelry or featuring a jewelry stand at your business, please call (541) 885-6017, or e-mail info@klamathfallscasa.org. You can find out more about the CASA for Children of Klamath County advocacy program at www.KlamathFallsCASA.org.
Thursday, December 6, 2012 Herald and News
Basin Business
Green Way Eco-Mart Opens Vegetarian Deli
Left to Right: Jenine Stuedli (South Valley Bank and Trust), Teddy Williams (T. Williams Company), Stacy Collins (First American Title Company), Ronda Norris, Victoria Haley (Cimarron Inn), David Alvarado (Sysco Foods). In November, Green Way EcoMart, located at 249 East Main Street, added to its menu a small vegan/vegetarian takeaway deli. So, in addition to our eco-friendly retail products, our wide repertoire of doit-yourself classes, and our Tuesday Market featuring locally grown organic vegetables, grains, eggs, honey, and handmade crafts, we now have takeaway vegetarian and vegan fare. We just keep evolving! On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (holidays excluded), you can come by the store for a sampling of our vegetarian and vegan fare featuring locally grown organic vegetables from Fresh Green Organics, Belweather Farm and Wong’s Potatoes, as well as breads and rolls made by Bonnie Nork with Camas Country Mill flours, and organic ingredients and spices sold at our store. We use compostable, recyclable takeaway containers, but also give a small discount for bringing your own container. Ashley Moncrief prepares a different menu on a weekly basis. We try to offer dishes in several categories, including vegetarian (V), vegan
(VV), raw (R), Gluten-Free (GF) and fermented (F) specialties each week. For example, last week we offered Savory Bulghur Wheat bake with Belweather Farm shallots and garlic (F, VV), Lentil & Carrot Curry (VV, GF, F) with Camas Country Mill lentils ($5)and Belweather Farm carrots, ($6), Curried Christmas Potato Salad (VV, GF) with Wong’s potatoes and Fresh Green Organics vegetables ($5), Almost Raw Pumpkin Pie (VV, GF) ($6),Chocolatecovered Cranberries(V, GF) with Oregon cranberries ($3),Vegan Apple Crisp (VV) with local organic apples ($4), and Organic Peppermint Chai ($4.50). We offered a plate with smaller portions of Lentil Carrot Curry, Savory Bulghur Wheat & Potato Salad for $10. We deliver free downtown (12 to 1) for orders over $20 with advance notice. Orders must be placed by 10 a.m. the day of delivery by Facebook or phone (541) 205-3488. If you place your order on Facebook, you’ll get a free sample included with your order. We hope to feed you soon. Thanks for supporting local!
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South Central Oregon Employment Situation for October 2012 The seasonally adjusted unemployment rates in Klamath and Lake counties fell slightly in October. Oregon’s unemployment rate also showed a slight improvement from September (8.7%) to October (8.6%). The U.S. unemployment rate edged up slightly over the month, rising to 7.9 percent in October from the September rate of 7.8 percent. Klamath County: Klamath County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 11.4 percent in October from 11.5 percent in September. The county’s unemployment rate was 12.2 percent in October 2011. The county added 180 jobs in October, when a gain of 130 jobs would be the seasonal norm. The private sector lost 110 jobs in October. Educational and health services added 80 jobs over the month. Manufacturing and retail trade also posted small gains; each added 10 jobs. However, seasonal job losses in leisure and hospitality (-140) more than offset the other industry gains. Government added 290 jobs in October. State (+220) and local (+150) government added jobs, while federal government (-80) employment fell. Klamath County added 90 jobs between October 2011 and October 2012. The private sector added 230 jobs over the year, with notable gains in manufacturing (+170); educa-
tional and health services (+60); and trade, transportation, and utilities (+60). Despite relatively large employment gains in October, government employment fell by 140 jobs from the previous year. Losses were spread across all levels of government. Lake County: The county’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate improved to 12.6 percent in October from the rate of 12.9 percent in September. In October 2011, the rate was 13.5 percent. Employment declined by 60 jobs in October, when a loss of 80 jobs would usually be expected. Privatesector employment fell by 20 jobs, with losses in mining and logging (-10) and financial activities (-10). Government dropped by 40 jobs over the month, primarily due to losses in federal employment. Employment declined by 20 jobs Lake County between October 2011 and October 2012. Losses were evenly split between the private and public sectors; each lost 10 jobs over the year. These estimates will be revised as new data from businesses becomes available. The next South Central Oregon Employment Situation with preliminary data for November 2012 is scheduled to be released on Monday, December 24th.
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Basin Business
Green Way EcoMart December Class Schedule
December 8th (9am-3pm) Cheesemaking $99: Gianaclis Caldwell of Pholia Farm (Rogue River) will teach us to make tomme and feta cheeses. Description: Gianaclis Caldwell, author of The Farmstead Creamery Advisor: The Complete Guide to Building and Running a Small, FarmBased Cheese Business and Mastering Artisan Cheesemaking, will teach you to make tomme and feta cheese. This class is approximately 6 hours long, and includes a wine and cheese tasting featuring Pholia Farm cheese (pholiafarm.com), 12 Ranch Wines (12ranchwines.com), as well as vegetarian/vegan dishes from Green Way’s deli. The class requires advance sign-up and advance payment of $99. Email ronda@greenwayecomart.com to sign up. December 9 (1pm-4pm) Raw Food Preparation $45: Now available in Klamath Falls! Ashley will teach you to create gourmet raw meals at home. Using local and easily accessible ingredients, you will learn the art of food preparation without destroying vital minerals, enzymes, and nutrients with heat. This class includes a raw lunch as well as decadent raw dessert along with an informative handout package. December 14 (1pm-2pm) Homemade Herbal Cough Drops $10:
Make your own herbal cough drops for a lot less than you will pay at the drug store. Using organic herbal ingredients with soothing and/or expectorant qualities, we’ll show you how to make cough drops that work as well as drops you purchase over the counter. Class costs includes a small paper of cough drops to take home. December 14 (3pm-4pm) Children’s Peppermint Soap-making class $6: Make Peppermint Soap! This is a class for children 5 to 8 years old. We’ll make natural peppermint soap (olive oil base with organic peppermint essential oil). Your child will go home with a lovely pink (or not!) bar of peppermint soap (snow flake or other holiday-themed soap) to give as a gift or to use at home. This is a fun class, and does not involve lye. The soap is pre-made, then melted down and poured into molds after the children add the ingredients they want to include. All classes will be held at Green Way EcoMart at 249 East Main Street. Call 541-205-2139 or email ronda@greenwayecomart.com for more information or to sign up. Prepayment is required for ALL classes. Green Way is open Tuesday 10-6, as well as Wednesdays and Thursdays 11:30-6.
Happy Holidays Accounting Associates Certified Public Accountants, PC
430 Walnut Avenue Klamath Falls, OR 97601 (541) 884-8121 Fax (541) 883-1421 KlamathCPA.com
Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Preparing for the “Fiscal Cliff” of 2013 As a tax payer, you are facing what is perhaps an unprecedented set of circumstances – the expiration of the tax rates enacted in 2001, the expiration of more than 150 tax provisions and a tax increase of more than $500 billion overall – that could result in a much higher tax liability when you file your tax return. If Congress and the President do not make changes, the combined effect could result in an average tax hike of around $3500.00 per household for up to 90% of Americans. There are possible tax increases and losses in tax benefits that could negatively impact your finances. We encourage you to start planning now so that you can act immediately to soften the impact to your bottom line. For the Small Business, particularly those that operate as a pass through entity, several changes are looming, including (but not limited to) a possible increase on long-term capital gains, restrictions on itemized deductions, reinstatement of the full payroll tax, and an increase in both the estate tax rate and the number of estates that will be subject to the estate tax. In addition, a new 3.8% surtax on some investment income effective Jan. 1, 2013. Currently, under Section 179 of the tax code, small business can deduct the total cost of some qualifying property in the year it is placed into service, within certain limits, rather than depreciating it over time. As of Jan. 1, 2013, the expensing limit is set to drop and real property, some of which is allowed now, will no longer be included. As a result, many businesses may want to consider making equipment or property purchases before year-end to take advantage of the higher expense amount. What may be critical to
taking advantage of section 179 is whether the equipment can be put into service before Jan.1, 2013. Also, with the expiration of current 50% first-year bonus depreciation allowance, businesses will have to revert to the modified accelerated cost recovery system to calculate depreciation, mean that more costs will have to be deducted over time rather than immediately. As a pass-through entity, there are several other issues to consider since you pay your business taxes as an individual, including: • The return of the phase out for itemized deductions for a taxpayer who has adjusted gross income over roughly $175,000 as well as a phase out of personal exemptions for taxpayers with income over a certain level. Each one should limit the amount of allowable deductions and raise the taxpayer’s net income. • The lowest individual income tax rate will rise from 10% to 15% and all other rates will also edge up. • A broader marriage penalty will mean higher tax bills for married couples. • The alternative minimum tax (AMT) will apply to 2012 income for many more Americans if not indexed for inflation. Your accountant can help you review any calculations to understand the effect of any tax changes and/or increases that may occur. Information compiled with the assistance of CPA, IRS Prep., and The Janus Review. Accounting Associates, PC. at our new location 430 Walnut Avenue, Klamath Falls, OR. 97601. (541)884-8121 FAX (541) 8831424 or www.KlamathCPA.com
Thursday, December 6, 2012 Herald and News
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Women More Likely To Need Long Term Care For years, women have been the family caretakers. Studies show women are more likely than men to handle childcare, tend to aging parents and prepare for the family’s future. Long term care, as a concern for a family’s future and aging parents, has become part of these women’s care-taking responsibilities. Long term care is designed to help people with chronic needs, especially those in nursing or assisted-living homes. Women should pay attention to long term care issues not only because they are more likely to be the one choosing it for family members, but also because they are more likely to need long term care themselves. On average, women live seven years longer than men. It’s no surprise that, according to the Social Security Administration, 68 percent of the 62-and-older crowd are women. In turn, more than two-thirds of nursing home residents are female, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Long-term medical assistance may be needed for anything from physical therapy after a stroke or fall to developing a mental disability, such as Alzheimer’s. Because women live
longer, they stand more of a chance of developing these needs. Since women are more likely to need long term care for longer periods of time, it is likely they will incur higher long term care costs than men. Women should plan and save for such an event, but unfortunately, that is not usually the case. Women traditionally earn less than men and are more likely to have interrupted their careers to raise their families. As a result, their personal savings, pensions and Social Security benefits may all be lower. At the end of 2010, women’s average monthly retirement benefit was $972, while men’s average monthly benefit was $1,284, according to the Social Security Administration. According to the 2008 U.S. Census (the latest data available), men age 65 and older make about $26,000 annually, while women in the same age group are worse off, with an annual income of $12,000. As you can imagine, long term care is not cheap. According to the latest survey by one of the most comprehensive and respected surveys in the industry, in 2010 the average annual cost for a semiprivate room in a nursing home is $67,525
Santa to Visit Oregon Gift Store The Oregon Gift Store was recently notified that the jolly old elf known as Santa Claus will be in the store to visit with the children of the Basin. Due to the fact that there are so many good little boys and girls in and around Klamath Falls, he will be at The Oregon Gift Store at 733 Main Street on two separate days. Parents, please mark your calendar for Thursday, December 6 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. which is just before the annual Snowflake Parade and then again on Saturday, December 15th from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Santa looks forward to hearing the
children’s wish lists as well as being available for pictures. Vallejos Photography will be on hand to take pictures for just $6 and a portion of the proceeds from the pictures will be donated to the local S.M.A.R.T. Program. Keep an eye out on for $1 off coupons in print and on The Oregon Gift Store and Shaw’s Stationery Facebook pages. For more information contact the store at 541-884-1600 or follow us on Facebook for the latest events, specials and promotions or check out our website: www.theoregongiftstore.com.
and $75,190 for a private room1. Those costs translate to an average of $185 per day for a semiprivate room and $206 per day for a private room. As the family-care experts, more women are learning that depending on Medicare and Medicaid is not an option. According to the American Society on Aging (ASA), 46 percent of those who currently have health insurance believe it would cover most of the costs related to long term care. In reality, long term care is rarely covered by health insurance plans. In addition, an ASA Roper study showed nearly a third of insured people are unaware that, while Medicaid does cover long term care, it is only available to those who have depleted nearly all of their own financial resources. All hope is not lost. Most insurers now offer private plans for long term care insurance, though not all long term care policies are alike. Some cover the cost of only nursing home care; others cover both nursing home and in-home care. Some offer tax-free benefits; others provide premium discounts if policies are purchased for both a husband
and wife. Good policies offer all of these options and more. Good policies should also come from a financially secure insurance company. Due to the necessary long-range financial commitment, the company should also have a history of keeping long term care premiums stable. People approaching age 50 should especially consider obtaining a long term care insurance policy. But it’s best to obtain a policy as early as possible (you can get a policy as young as age 18) because the annual premium payments are lower, and it’s easier to qualify for a policy. If a person ends up needing daily living assistance and suddenly realizes there is no money to pay for it, it’s too late. As proactive caregivers for themselves and family, women can benefit by investigating the benefits of long term care insurance. Contact Gene Thomas or Justin Pearlstein with COUNTRY Financial to discuss which long term care policy is right for you. Call (541) 882-3921 for more information.
Dine, drink and dance the night away with your team and other local business people on December 13, from 5:30 to 10:00 p.m. at the Running Y. You’ll love the sweet sounds of One Way Entertainment with DJ Dave playing popular and classic tunes. The complete grand buffet style dinner will include carving stations with Prime Rib, Roasted Turkey and other local favorites, plus all the side dishes. And what would a Christmas Party be without something sweet? You’ll love our decadent
desserts and specialty drinks from the no-host bar. The cost is $37.50 per person including gratuity. Tickets may be purchased individually or in table of eight. Advance reservations are required and the deadline for booking is Tuesday, December 11th. Please contact Cathy Henderson at 541-850-5785 for more information. If you would like a more private venue and customized menu we can help with that too. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to check availability and pricing. Happy Holidays!
Celebrate the Joy of Christmas at Running Y Ranch
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Chamber Seeking Nominations for Annual Awards The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its annual awards including: • Business of the Year • Distinguished Service • First Citizen • Green Business of the Year Nominations can be made online at www.klamath.org or by calling (541) 884-5193. Nominations must be made by January 5, 2013. Business of the Year is awarded to the business that demonstrates exceptional products and services as well as community support. The nominee shall have made a major or visible contribution in the past year that reflects commercial growth and achievement, innovation, creativity, or community involvement. Past Business of the Year winners include: 2000 -- Basin Glass & Aluminum 2001 -- Mia & Pia’s 2002 -- Pacific Crest 2003 -- Dynasty 2004 -- Diamond Home Improvement 2005 -- Smith Bates 2006 – Roger’s Interiors 2007 – Triad 2008 -- Mike Angeli, The Ledge 2009 -- New Northwest Broadcasters 2010 – YMCA 2011 – Klamath Falls Gems
Distinguished Service is awarded to an individual in an organization who has done extraordinary work on behalf of Klamath County in economic development. Past Distinguished Service award winners include: 1995 -- Dale Foresee 1996 -- Bill Brown 1997 -- Al Switzer 1997 -- Bill Garrard 1997 -- Steve West 1998 -- Todd Kellstrom 1999 -- Martha Ann Dow 2000 -- Monte Mendenhall 2001 -- Trey Senn 2002 -- Bud Hart 2003 -- John Dey 2004 -- Jeff Ball 2005 -- Ed Caleb 2006 – Danny Miles
2007 – Martha Ann Dow 2008 -- Sherry Hutchison 2009 – KLCAS 2010 – Terry Sherrill 2011 – John Snider
First Citizen is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated strong entrepreneurial spirit, generous philanthropic contributions and have been a positive civic influence within their community. Past First Citizen recipients include: 1994 – Gloria Schell 1995 -- Neil Eberlein 1995 -- Alan Eberlein 1996 -- Dale Foresee 1997 -- Dick Ledgerwood 1998 -- Ken Moore 1999 -- Nell Kuonen 2000 -- Gary Weldon 2001 -- Bob Gasser & Donnie Boyd 2002 -- Debbie Vought 2003 -- Floyd Wynne 2004 -- Dan Keppen 2005 -- Reg Lequieu 2006 – Debbie Chapman 2008 -- JoAnne Carson 2009 -- Ken Hay 2010 – Justin Pearlstein 2011 – Wendy Clark
Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Goodwill’s Glitz and Gowns
Looking for the perfect special occasion dress? Don’t miss Goodwill’s Glitz & Gowns event on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the 9th Street Venue, 829 Klamath Avenue in downtown Klamath Falls Free admission to shop from over 300 dress-shop quality gowns at Goodwill prices -- including bridal and bridal party, flower girls, prom and formal gowns, cocktail, quinceanera, and other special occasions. The event features: • Separate sections for bridal and formal gowns • Jewelry and accessories • Meet with Allure Salon for up-dos and makeup; Rose of Sharon for floral options; and cakes from
Sherm’s Thunderbird bakery • Pose in the photo booth to see latest wedding reception trend • Enter to win the Glitz & Glam Gift Basket from Ultimate Exposure New-Age Tanning! This is a Goodwill fundraiser event with all proceeds staying in Klamath County for the new “Steps to Success” family strengthening program. For more information, contact Julie Fletcher at 541/772-3300 or visit www.sogoodwill.org and look under What’s New.
The Green Business of the Year award will go to a business that demonstrates environmental improvements and cost savings associated with resource use efficiency. This will be the first year the Chamber has recognized a business for this award. The award winners will be announced at the Chamber’s 92nd Annual Awards Gala at the Ross Ragland Theater on January 19th, 2013. Tickets are on sale now through the box office - visit www.rrtheater.org or call (541) 884-LIVE. For more information on the Chamber awards, please visit www. klamath.org or call (541) 884-5193.
Klamath Community College
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Thursday, December 6, 2012 Herald and News
Renewing Members
The following Klamath County Chamber of Commerce members renewed their membership for another year:
Adkins Consulting Engineers AFLAC Bogey’s Coffee and Smoothie Box R Ranch Card Plumbing and Heating Carpenter Design Inc. Cascade Comprehensive Care Ins. Chambers Communications KDKF Crater Lake Council Boy Scouts of America Curves Ernst String Shop Exchange Club Favell Museum Fisher Nicholson - Diana Kellstrom Fisher Nicholson - Wendi Ronco Harbor Links Golf Course
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ISCO CPAs KOTI - TV KTVL - TV MC’s on Main Nibbley’s North Shore Hawaiian Plate Lunch Parker’s Rod and Gun Rack Pet Medical Center of Klamath Falls Robert Unruh Farms S&H Bedroom Gallery Southtowne Commerce Center State Farm - Deborah Thompson Tulelake Chamber of Commerce Upper Deck Restaurant Washington Federal YMCA of Klamath Falls Yummy’s
New Members AG-SENSE, inc. 3015 Paramont St, Klamath Falls, OR - (541) 205-6216 Financial consulting for your farm and business. Chapman Ranch LLC Klamath Falls, OR - (541) 591-3569 Third generation ranch located in Poe Valley. We run a commercial cow/calf operation and market all of our calves through Country Natural Beef Co-op. Millard Dental 2650 Washburn Way Ste. 200 (541) 884-1333 www.millarddental.com Full Service Dental Office Our pledge to you is top quality dentistry and the highest level of customer service. At Millard Dental, we believe your time is important and we will always strive to get you appointed with in a day or two. We are always available to provide same day treatment for emergencies.
Is your business or organization a member of the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce? Call (541) 884-5193 to join.
Klamath County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff 2012 Executive Board
President: Stan Gilbert, Klamath Youth Development Center 1st VP: Barb Meng US Cellular-Cellular Solutions 2nd VP: Toby Freeman, Pacific Power Treasurer/Secretary: Bridgitte Griffin, South Valley Bank & Trust Heidi Wright, Herald and News Dan Keppen, Dan Keppen & Associates, Inc Immediate Past President: Jodi Kucera, Mia & Pia’s Pizzeria & Brewhouse
General Board
Curtis Waite, 173d Fighter Wing/Kingsley Field Willie Riggs, OSU Extension Office Kathie Philp, Pacific Crest FCU Ellsworth Lang, Running Y Mike Angeli, The Ledge/Yeti’s Lair Rachael Spoon, KBHBA Randy L. Shaw, Coldwell Banker Tom Reeves, Win-R Insulation
Ex-Officio Board
City of Klamath Falls Klamath County KCEDA Oregon Institute of Technology Klamath Community College KUHS DECA
Staff
Charles “Chip” Massie Executive Director Heather Tramp Marketing & Program Coordinator Andie Alvarez Outreach Coordinator
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Thursday, December 6, 2012, Herald and News
Paid Advertisement
December 2012 Newsletter for Oregon State Senator Doug Whitsett, District 28 Senator Doug Whitsett
R-Klamath Falls - District 28 I represent the citizens of Senate District 28, which includes Klamath, Lake and Crook, as well as parts of Jackson and Deschutes Counties. As Senator of one of the largest Senate districts in the state, it is extremely important that my constituents remain in contact with me about the issues and concerns that affect their lives. You and I must work together to protect the common interests of rural Oregonians. I encourage you to contact my office by either email or telephone so that I can know how to best serve you. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best Regards, Senator Doug Whitsett
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, S-303 Salem, OR 97301 Capitol Phone: 503-986-1728 Newsletters: www.leg.state.or.us/whitsett Email Senator Doug Whitsett: sen.dougwhitsett@state.or.us
PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FOOD BANK The winter season is nearly always a period of both increased unemployment and higher family cost. This year is shaping up to be even worse than most due to a stagnant economy and inflating consumer prices. Oregon’s rural economy has continued to falter, per capita household income persists in its downward spiral and unemployment remains in double digits. More than twenty percent of rural Oregonians, who want to work, do not have a job or are working less than full time. Those stark numbers are much worse among eighteen to twenty five year old job seekers. At the same time, the rapidly inflating costs of food, fuel, home heating, utility services and medical care is eroding away already inadequate household incomes. This is particularly true for those on fixed incomes. Very low interest rates result in small returns on investments while annual cost of living adjustments are being kept artificially low. The certain result is that many seniors, and others unable to work, must choose between keeping their dwellings warm, staying current on utility bills, paying for medical necessities, and buying food. The Klamath-Lake County Food Bank is an instrument of hope for many of these struggling households. The local Food Bank is one of twenty regional affiliates of the Oregon Food Bank. That Portland based operation makes food available to each Oregon region based on population, poverty levels and unemployment rates. Each week, the local operations manager orders available food products paying the Oregon Food Bank a “share fee” to reimburse their costs of acquisition and shipping. Niki and Dave Sampson, along with their hard working crew, have distributed more than 1,700,000 pounds or 850 tons of food this year. The food is dispensed to seventy other non-profit agencies and programs located throughout the region served. About 750 volunteers have donated more than 23,000 hours of their time to the local food distribution efforts. That calculates to nearly a quarter of a million dollars in volunteer labor. This spirit of giving is one factor that has allowed the Food Bank to keep their labor costs low. In fact, local Food Bank labor costs are a little less than sixteen cents for every pound of food distributed! Allocations by the local Food Bank include providing food for 485,000 meals this year. Food is made available to provide meals for seniors and the disabled, cancer treatment and hospice patients, single parents and those with special
needs kids, veterans, the homeless and those who just need a little help once in a while in order to make ends meet. In fact, the fastest growing segment of those seeking help from the Food Bank are those families who are underemployed and simply run out of cash before the end of the month. Niki tells us, sadly, that many of these families are the same generous people who have been consistent contributors of food and money to the Food Bank for many years. The Food Bank distributes food boxes to ten pantry sites within the Klamath Falls area as well as ten more food pantry locations throughout Klamath and Lake Counties. This year, Niki and Dave’s crew have already provided food to one in four Klamath and Lake County households. On average, each of those 6,400 families has received four food boxes.
The Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank is unique in that it receives as much as two-thirds of all its food donations from local people and local businesses. The Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank is unique in that it receives as much as two-thirds of all its food donations from local people and local businesses. This year, they have collected more than 850 thousand pounds, or 425 tons of food, through local community food drives, individual contributions, the generous gifts of local farmers and ranchers, and from many local food stores such as Safeway, Albertson’s, Sherm’s Thunderbird Market, Grocery Outlet, Walmart, and the Daily Bagel. This incredible local support is unprecedented in Oregon and serves to make the local Food Bank nearly self-sustaining. This did not happen by accident. The Sampsons first began working with the Food Bank when it was located out at Kingsley Field. At that time, as much as ninety five percent of the food came from the Oregon Food Bank in Portland. Niki and Dave have worked for more than fifteen years to successfully develop this ongoing charitable relationship with members of our local communities.
Part of that effort was focused on moving the Food Bank to a more accessible and more functional facility. Niki wrote a number of grant applications and was able to secure $400,000 from private foundations plus another $50,000 in matching funds from the local communities. They used those funds to develop the location they now occupy at 3231 Maywood Drive. That facility includes a 1,800 square foot administration building, a 12,000 square foot warehouse with extensive walk-in coolers and freezers, a pair of fork lifts and a variety of vehicles used to collect and distribute food products. This facility and equipment allows the Food Bank to process about seventeen tons of food each week and deliver it to those in need. All of the buildings and equipment are fully paid for and are now owned by the Klamath Falls community. This debt free operation helps the Food Bank to purchase more and better quality food both locally and from the Oregon Food Bank. In fact, the Sampson managed operation is now able to leverage about twelve pounds of food purchases for every dollar it receives in donations. The Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank is a well-managed business operation with friendly efficient staff, impeccably clean facilities and obvious pride of community ownership. It operates with the lowest overhead costs of any charity that I have ever observed. The low overhead has allowed management to set aside modest reserves to sustain its service through even worse short term economic downturns. Our Sampson managed Food Bank is a shining example of what a local Food Bank should be and how one should be operated. The other affiliated Food Banks would do well to emulate their successful business plan. There is simply no other charity where our cash and food donations will be put to better use to help our neighbors in need. Please remember, if we do not stand up for rural Oregon no one will. Best regards, Doug