Kelso Longview Chamber Business Connection Feb 2024

Business Connection Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Thank you! sQuatch Fest Chamber crew and speakers.

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Karen Sisson Interim CEO

k February 2024

Volume 16 • Issue 2 Business Connection is published monthly by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce 105 N. Minor Road • Kelso, WA 98626

STAFF

BIG Chamber event's footprint grows

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n 2016 the Chamber knew we needed a new way to connect with the community and our members and increase tourism in Cowlitz County. Under the supervision of the then Project Manager Amy Hallock, sQuatch Fest was born. Eight years later sQuatch Fest does not disappoint and continues to be an annual event in our community. With a new project manager at the helm, Pam Fierst continues to grow the event by adding her own new ideas and touches along the way. This year we had visitors from Washington, Oregon, Texas, Florida, Utah, Tennessee, California, Oklahoma, Alaska, North Caralina, Mississippi, Montana, Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, and Wisconsin. It’s so impressive to see our reach bringing tourist to Longview and Kelso.

Karen Sisson, Interim CEO Pam Fierst, Project Manager Ella Tiefenthal, Bookkeeper, Office Manager, Social Media

k CONTACT US

360-423-8400 kelsolongviewchamber.org To advertise, call Pam Fierst 360-423-8400 or pfierst@kelsolongviewchamber.org Ad Deadline 20th of Each Month

The speakers are still our strongest draw, and we are honored they want to return each year. Dr. Jeff Meldrum, Cliff Barackman, Shane Corson and Matt Pruitt (new to the speaker lineup but not the event) all returned with new presentations and updates on what they have been up to over the past year. Newcomers Michael Freeman, the son of research pioneer Paul Freeman and a historical researcher of the Blue Mountain evidence and the author of the book the "Freeman Bigfoot Files" and Ken Gerhard, a widely recognized cryptozoologist, author and lecturer who frequently appears on television, joined our lineup this year. Friday night started with our best bud, Craig Yahne doing his presentation and hosting the event. My favorite is having all the speakers on the stage together speaking with the audience and giving them the opportunity to share their stories. Super fun evening. J As in previous years, the squatch merchandise is incredible! You could find squatch on everything from apparel, soaps, candles, glassware, insulated mugs, cups and wine glasses.

And don’t forget the jerky, cookies, and everything in between. Not everything thing was squatch related which for me was great. I was able to purchase gifts that highlighted the Pacific Northwest and exhibited all the amazing places and things to do here in Washington.

If you feed them, they will come…. how true that is! Much thanks to all the amazing For more sQuatch Fest, see page 3

Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Jason Gentemann, President Foster Farms Sean Kiffe, President Elect NORPAC Pam Whittle, Vice President Realty One Group Pacifica Neil Zick, Treasurer Twin City Bank Michael Claxton, Legal Counsel Walstead Mertsching Marlene Johanson, Past President Heritage Bank Rich Coleman Bicoastal Media Diane Craft Koelsch Communities Duane Dalgleish Cowlitz PUD

sQuatch Fest from page 1

offerings from the food trucks and Summerland Enterprise. Attendees could choose from burgers, street tacos, lumpas, gourmet hotdogs, made-to-order wood-fire pizzas and a selection of coffee drinks from our local Red Leaf.

By now, I hope you are familiar with Chamber committee Lower Columbia Professionals.

They are a group of Chamber members that hold events to raise money for scholarships to be given out each year to our local high school seniors. Brew Mountain is one of the many fundraisers they do, so if you partake in a beer or two, you contributed to the Chamber giving a high school student the opportunity to continue with their secondary education dreams. Thank you! Brew Mountain happily moved to a tent to allow more vendors in the exhibitor hall and patrons were only to happy to explore. Live music, Brew Mountain merchandise and a variety of non-alcohol offerings were a huge hit. Thank you, Lower Columbia Professionals for continuing the tradition and a huge thank you to Jeri Dalgleish of Columbia Distributors and Sam Reid of Big Foot Printing for all you did to make Brew Mountain a huge success.

In closing, Pam Fierst and Ella Tiefenthal…my amazing staff, killed it! Thank you for all the long hours and dedication you show to the job every day. I must acknowledge all our sponsors, individuals and Chamber members that give their time so unselfishly to assure this event continues for years to come. Our mission from eight years ago has been accomplished but hey, it’s just the tip…. your Chamber is working on another event that is out-of-this-world!

Kristin Gaines Alcoa

Thank you,

Kelly Godden Specialty Rents

Jeri Dalgleish, Columbia Distributing

Marsha Treadway, Community Mediation Center

Rich Gushman Gibbs & Olson

Vashti Langford, The Rising Phoenix

Keenan Harvey City Council, Kelso

Teedara Garn, Unicorn Training

Sabrina Kochprapha United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties

Kevin Kerns, Mr. Big Foot

Jason Meunier Fibre Federal Credit Union Cherelle Montanye St. John/PeaceHealth John Paul KUKN-KLOG-101.5 The Blitz Ted Sprague Cowlitz Economic Development Council MaryAlice Wallis City of Longview Mayor Dennis Weber Cowlitz County Commissioner

Kelly & Shaun Godden, Specialty Rents Sam Reid, Big Foot Printing Duane Dalgleish, Cowlitz PUD Lower Columbia Professionals (you know who you are) Tom Gunn, Reprographics And, our sponsors: CalPortland, Lower Columbia Longshoremen’s Federal Credit Union, Twin City Bank, WestRock, Gibbs & Olson, Heritage Bank, D&C Lemmons LLC, Kilander Dental, Port of Longview, Sleep, Guest House, Comfort Inn, Northwest Enforcement, Foster Farms, The Home Depot, Canopy Mortgage, Columbia Distributing, Bigfoot Print Co., Silver Star, Specialty Rents, TEAM-Total Employment and Management, Grocery Outlet, Evergreen Home Loans, Re/Max Premier Group-Betsy Wyatt, Explorer Brewing Co., River Mile 38 Brewing Co., Dogfish Head, Pabst Blue Ribbon, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, White Claw Hard Seltzer, Athletic Brewing Co., Backstage Café, Sierra Nevada, Silver City Brewery, Iron Horse Brewery, Rainier, Schilling Hard Cider, Samuel Adams, BiCoastal Media, KLOG-KUKN-101.5 The Blitz, The Daily News and PeaceHealth.

Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 3

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360-807-1211

Longview Downtowners Josh Carter President

Downtown is in the fight of its life. Again.

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hrough the years, downtown has been plagued by the many comings and goings of a moving marketplace.

Lately, we’re facing a new challenge, perhaps the hardest one yet. Before I dive into telling you what’s going on, I should first give you some context.

Lindsey Cope from the Cowlitz Economic Development Council excels at many things, but one skill has stood out to me personally. This is now the second time I’ve followed Lindsey as president of a group or organization, and on both occasions, she has especially excelled in transition planning. With the Downtowners, Lindsey set us up with a functional board (the board was mostly unofficial before), we instituted bylaws and policies, onboarding procedures and member lists. Literally, I have a spreadsheet of what benefits every single member is due, and when. She left us with nearly $30,000 in our bank account.

Now we’re fighting a new battle…the battle every organization seems to struggle with – engagement. We have all these

leverageable assets. We have professionals in multiple categories.

We even have money. However, we don’t have buy in from our target audience.

Downtown has two target audiences: 1. Business Owners; 2.

Consumers. Our current goals as a downtown center around engaging both audiences in a way that creates sustainable revenue and value to all concerned. Basically, we’re fighting for attention.

So here’s what we have in mind. First, I’ve created a tool on www.downtownlongview.com/request-for-support.

Downtown businesses can go to this link and fill out a quick form to ask for help from the organization. Second, we need more work done. So, the executive team has elected to introduce a new collaboration structure for downtown, straight out of another winning city’s playbook. You can hear all about it at our next meeting, the third Thursday of February at Realty One Group Pacifica, 3 p.m.

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Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 5

WorkSource

Carson Winter

Communications and Outreach Coordinator

Unemployment and WorkSource: How we work together

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t WorkSource, we get asked one question more than any other: can you help me with my unemployment?

activities can be completed at WorkSource. These include (but are not limited to):

It’s not a leap to figure out why people ask. After all, unemployment and WorkSource are two players in a system designed to help workers. But while the unemployment department and WorkSource do work together, we are actually two different organizations with different goals.

•

Setting up an account at www.WorkSourceWA.com.

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Uploading your resume to www.WorkSourceWA.com.

•

Participating in a virtual or in-person workshop at a WorkSource center.

Let’s take a look at these two organizations to understand where they enter into the employment life cycle and how they coexist.

•

Attending a hiring event at WorkSource.

What is unemployment?

Unemployment insurance provides you with partial and temporary income when you lose your job through no fault of your own. This is a system that you’ve paid into with your taxes your whole working life and to which your employers have also contributed.

Not sure if you’re eligible for unemployment benefits, apply anyway and the unemployment office will follow up with you.

How do you sign up for unemployment?

There are two ways you can sign up for unemployment benefits: 1.

You can apply for benefits online at www.esd.wa.gov/ unemployment.

2.

You can file a claim by phone by calling 1-800-318-6022.

What is WorkSource?

WorkSource is an organization funded by state and federal grants with one goal: to help YOU get back to work.

We do this by providing our customers with resources, support services, and job training—all for free. You can visit your local WorkSource center and have an employment specialist help with your resume, conduct a mock interview, or use our resource room to help with your job search. We’re also able to help eligible candidates by providing training for an in-demand career, childcare assistance, work clothes, transportation assistance, and more.

How do WorkSource and the unemployment department work together?

For those receiving unemployment, WorkSource is often their first stop on the road to finding work again. The unemployment department requires individuals to complete weekly job search activities while they draw their benefits. Several of these job search 6 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

You can find the full link of eligible job search requirements here: https://bit.ly/41XhoKf So, how do WorkSource and unemployment work together to help people get back to work? Both support people in different stages of their working life. When an individual loses their job, unemployment insurance provides temporary income and partly replaces their lost earnings while they look for work. And WorkSource helps give them the tools and resources they need to make that next employment step a reality.

In comparison to the unemployment department, you could say that WorkSource is the re-employment center.

If you’re looking to start your job search, come by your local WorkSource center. We have free resources for all job seekers, including free workshops, resume reviews, mock interviews, and more. If you’re looking to get back to work, walk in or call for an appointment at 360-577-2250.

WorkSource Cowlitz/Wahkiakum is located at 305 S. Pacific Ave., Kelso. Office hours are Monday through Friday (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) for virtual and in-person services. The center is across the street from the Kelso Theater and next door to the Kelso Police station. Language services are available upon request.

WorkSource is a network of nonprofits, community-based organizations, and local and state agencies working in partnership to provide an array of employment and training services to job seekers and businesses in Washington state. WorkSource is funded through the local workforce development board, Workforce Southwest Washington. For information, visit www.WorkSourceWA.com.

Carson Winter is the communications and outreach coordinator at WorkSource. Reach him at carson.winter@esd.wa.gov or 360-7354962.

City of Kelso Mike Karnofski Kelso City Council

Improved safety for traffic, pedestrians, cyclists

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he main topic at the recent Kelso City Council workshop was a review of the more than $3 million in projects to improve traffic, pedestrian and bicycle safety. The Safe

Routes to School project near Huntington Middle School will be completed in the next two months. This involves sidewalks and traffic control.

Allen Street near the high school will get improved sidewalks with ADA access and lighting. Unfortunately, the costs have increased so the sidewalk on the north side of Allen Street cannot

the bridge will see improvements.

One of the most significant projects will be east bound Cowlitz Way from the bridge to 4th Avenue and 4th and 5th avenues between Cowlitz Way and Allen Street. The main activity will be elimination of one traffic lane and addition of a bike lane.

Anticipated completion of these projects is in 2025.

At the workshop the Council also reviewed the Federal ARPA expenditures. There is around $400,000 remaining. At this time

be completed at this time. Additional safety improvements will

the Council has decided it will keep this in reserve.

also be completed near Butler Acres, Barnes, and Catlin schools.

Finally, a reminder that good schools create good communities

The dike trail crossing at Grade Street and Allen Street from I-5 to

so please vote for Kelso schools in the upcoming election.

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Scan the QR code or visit HeritageBankNW.com to learn more and connect with a banker near you.

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8 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments Bill Fashing

Executive Director

Focusing on driver education and road safety

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he Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments (CWCOG) Board of Directors approved the 2024 safety performance targets for the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in January. The targets influence five areas tracked in the effort to eliminate roadway fatalities and serious accidents. The five measures are the number of fatalities, the rate of fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT), number of serious injuries, rate of serious injuries per 100 million VMT, and the number of non-motorist fatalities and serious injuries.

Since 2012 federal law has required state departments of transportation and MPOs to establish targets in various performance management categories including safety. This is the seventh year safety performance targets have been established by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the CWCOG has chosen to follow and work to meet the state measures. The purpose for establishing safety performance measure targets is to assist state DOTs and MPOs with making investment decisions that can significantly reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. The work of the MPO and area cities and counties are directed at improving the state of the built environment to improve roadway safety.

The WTSC website also includes data sets on roadway safety. A December 2022 speed observation survey shows that about 46.3 percent of the 1,338 observations at eight different sites in Cowlitz County were speeding. Almost 18 percent of those were in excess of 6 mph above the speed limit on the city and county roadways that were observed by law enforcement.

Of the cars in the observation, 47.6 percent sped through the school zone, and more than half of the drivers traveled more than 30 mph. The following graph shows the observed speeding status by vehicle type at the eight locations in Cowlitz County. This observation showed that 48.6 percent of pickups were speeding and 100 percent of the observed motorcycles were speeding.

Target setting by state DOTs and MPOs is required for the five safety performance measures included in the table below. The table reflects the current set of targets that you as a user of the regional road system can influence.

Source: www.wtsc.wa.gov

In stark contrast, the following table outlines the speed observations from the school zone at Kessler Elementary School in Longview on Jan. 24, 2023, where over 70 percent of the drivers were speeding.

This is a pedestrian rich environment where speeding can make an impact on the severity of any accident involving a pedestrian.

The safety work of the CWCOG also includes the Target Zero program that is more focused on changing behavior of road users with the goal of improving overall safety. What can you do to assist in improving roadway safety? As an employer you can educate your workforce about the importance of roadway safety. If you do not already have a driver safety program, consider adding one today and joining the Target Zero team. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) has basic resources available to assist in developing a distracted driving program for your workplace. Click here to access the Four-Step Toolkit. You can also find other resources at the WTSC site to provide information on enhancing your focus, driving sober, using your seat belt, as well as being patient on our area roadways. Click here for information on these four topics.

Source: www.wtsc.wa.gov Kessler Elementary School Observations

The full report on this speed observation effort is available online at the WTSC site. Stay focused on your travels and the life you save might be your own.

Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 9

Longview Public Schools Dan Zorn

Superintendent

Levy supports students everyday, in many ways

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n the upcoming February special election, voters will have the opportunity to consider renewing the Education Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy. This measure is a replacement levy, meaning it is not introducing a new tax but rather continuing a long history of support for our schools. The EP&O Levy contributes about 15 percent of the district’s operating budget.

The EP&O Levy covers everyday educational costs that are not met by state or federal funds. These include expenses for student instruction, student support services, extracurricular activities, classroom materials and supplies, and transportation. Specifically, the levy funds well over 130 teaching and support staff positions in our district, the equivalent of all of the staffing in three of our elementary schools combined. This group encompasses special education staff and paraeducators, school resource officers, specialists in behavior and literacy, groundskeepers, custodians, nurses, counselors, and administrators. The levy also funds nearly all of the costs associated with our extracurricular and sports programs in our middle and high schools.

Addressing community concerns about property taxes, the

10 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

proposed replacement levy set for a vote on Feb. 13 aims to lower the total locally voted school tax burden. The school board has carefully considered balancing the needs of our students with taxpayer concerns, choosing to reduce the amount of total locally voted school tax collections in the upcoming years compared to the last four.

This approach ensures we can maintain high-quality educational programs and support for our children and families while also considering the financial impact on our taxpayers. Our goal is to find the right balance between supporting our students’ educational needs and respecting our community’s financial wellbeing.

For detailed information on the replacement EP&O Levy, please visit www.longviewschools.com/levy. We encourage you to cast your vote by Feb. 13.

The Chamber of Commerce’s endorsement of this levy request is greatly appreciated. Your trust and support mean everything to us. Thank you for your continued commitment to our schools and students.

NOTE: The Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce endorses both Kelso and Longview school district levies on the upcoming ballot.

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Kelso Business and Community Association Lindsey Cope President

Fostering growth and community spirit: The Kelso Business and Community Association

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n the heart of Kelso, a dedicated group is working tirelessly to create a thriving and vibrant community. The Kelso Business and Community Association (KBCA) stands as a private, not-for-profit organization committed to promoting business growth, strengthening community bonds, and initiating projects that enhance the appeal of Kelso as an exceptional place to live and do business.

At the core of KBCA’s mission is the desire to foster a sense of community and contribute to the overall well-being of Kelso.

With a focus on business growth, the association actively seeks ways to strengthen the ties that bind the community together.

Through various initiatives, KBCA aims to make Kelso not just a place to reside but a place to thrive.

One of the hallmarks of KBCA is its inclusivity. The association is open to anyone who shares the vision of making Kelso a better place.

Whether you are a business owner, a resident, or someone passionate about community development, KBCA welcomes your involvement.

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12 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

At the Jan. 30 meeting we discussed the following: •

Fundraising Initiatives – How KBCA plans to secure the resources needed to drive community projects and support local businesses.

•

Kelso Clean Up and Planting Day – April 20.

•

America in Bloom Initiatives: New planters, SMART goals, and status updates.

As we look to the future of Kelso, organizations like the Kelso Business and Community Association play a pivotal role in shaping the community’s destiny. KBCA provides an avenue for citizens and businesses to join hands, contribute ideas, and actively participate in the positive transformation of Kelso. We encourage everyone to attend our meetings and become part of this inspiring journey toward a better, more vibrant Kelso. Visit our website at www.letsgokelso. com or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LetsGoKelso to sign up to get notifications about meetings, events, and more.

5/26/23 12:40 PM

February

CALENDAR

1

Chamber Ambassadors Meeting 7:30am, Canterbury Park

6

Ribbon Cutting 11am, TBC Entertainment Chamber Office

8

13

15

22

Quarterly Luncheon 11:30am, Unlocking the Power of Employee Experience Kelso Longview Elks Business After Hours 5pm, Performance Occupational Health Services 1516 Hudson St, Ste, 201, Longview Ribbon Cutting 11:30am, Daava Mills Consulting Chamber Office Legislative Briefings 7am, Zoom (every Monday) Ribbon Cutting 11:30am, Longview Kiwanis Kelso Senior Center Association 106 NW 8th Ave, Kelso

23

Lower Columbia Professionals Up, Up & Away 6:30pm, Roxy Theater 1101 Commerce Ave, Longview

Your Chamber Connection Radio Show Wednesdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28, 6pm KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM

March

LOOKING AHEAD

Shout Outs!

■ Dr. Matt Seimears was named the next president of Lower Columbia College (LCC). The selection was made during a board of trustees meeting, where trustees voted unanimously on his appointment.

Seimears will become the 13th head of the college over its 90 year history, and the fifth president since LCC joined the Washington community and technical college system in 1967.

■ Thanks to the contributions of PeaceHealth caregivers and community donors in Alaska, Washington and Oregon, the Foundations of PeaceHealth recently received three national awards for outstanding fundraising performance from the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) for the following achievements: Overall Revenue High Performer, Health System High Performer and Overall Productivity High Performer (awarded to only 40 U.S. healthcare organizations) This collective achievement was announced in AHP’s recently released 2023 Report on Giving. In compiling this report, AHP assessed the fundraising effectiveness of healthcare organizations nationwide.

■ The Children’s Discovery Museum has new winter hours. They’re now open Wednesdays 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The CDM is free.

Coming Up Lower Columbia Professionals Up, Up & Away, Feb. 23, Roxy Theater Kid’s Fish In, April. 27, Martin’s Dock, Lake Sacajawea, www.mylongview.com

Share your brief business news with us for possible publication – email ksisson@kelsolongviewchamber.org

Boot Camp Fridays, March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 7:30am, American Workforce Group, Longview

7

Chamber Ambassadors 7:30am, Canterbury Park

14

Lower Columbia Professionals Bingo TBA

(360) 952-3100 1135 3rd Ave. Suite S-101, Longview

Your Chamber Connection Radio Show Wednesdays, March 6, 13, 20 and 27, 6pm KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM For a complete list of Chamber and Community events, check out our website.

www.amadalongview.com Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 13

City of Longview Spencer Boudreau Mayor

Involved citizens build a city for the future

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itizens, on Jan. 11 I was honored to be elected the 24th mayor of the City of Longview by the city council. To be able to serve our community and its people in this new role is exciting and humbling. As our city begins its second century we have a bit of reflecting to do, and some questions to ask ourselves. What kind of a city do we want to be? What do we want to be known for? What is our identity? Who will make these dreams and goals a reality?

The answers don’t only lie with government, but with our people. People are our best resource as a community. Our city’s first hundred years would not have been possible without the commitment of the early citizens to the goal of making their new city of Longview a success. We owe the people of the future the same commitment. How do we do it? How can we accomplish this?

We get involved. For our city to prosper, for our children

to have it better than we do, for our community to last and be strong we all have to do our part. For some this is getting involved in their children’s PTA, or joining a service organization like Lions, Rotary, or Altrusa. It could even be joining their neighborhood association or volunteering with a nonprofit.

It takes an involved and vigilant community to direct their government to make good decisions on their behalf. For those of us in elected office as servant leaders it is our mission and our job to encourage involvement and participation, no matter how small that may be. It takes all of us to make it happen. I urge those with concerns and passions about what kind of a place our community will be to take the initiative to get involved. Join a service organization, attend a community meeting, make your voice heard and listen to others. The future is in our hands. Our challenge is to deliver and make it happen.

EmploymEnt law

WALSTEAD MERTSCHING

Attorney Nicole M. Tideman

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Attorneys in our employment and labor law department represent employers and employees throughout southwest Washington. We handle matters regulated by the Washington State Human Rights Commission, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, and the United States Department of Labor. Our attorneys can provide representation in all state and federal courts in Washington, including the Washington State Supreme Court.

• Alternative Dispute Resolution • Disability Accommodation Issues • Discrimination Claims • Employee Training • Employment Contracts and Manuals • Family and Medical Leave • Hiring, Discipline, and Termination • Investigation of Complaints

• Labor Relations • Litigation • Employment Agreements • Severance Agreements • Sexual Harassment Claims • Unemployment Compensation • Wage and Hour Disputes • Wrongful Termination

14 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

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New Members Add your business to our growing membership Call 360-423-8400 Today!

Membership packages to fit your needs

Business Association with opportunities to

Look Who Joined in January Five Star Painting of Longview and Centralia Armando Yruretagoyena ll 101 N Rock Street, Suite 1, Centralia, WA 98686 503-545-4909 Armando.y@fivestarpanting.com

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

Legendary Leads

Business Services include marketing for

Sleep Inn Kelso

your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data.

• Mailing Labels • Membership Window Decals • Member Referrals • Ribbon Cutting • Website Links • Member to Member Discounts • Membership Directory • Tax Deduction • Newsletter • Business Card Display • Use of Chamber Logo

Representation through action committees, candidate forums and up-to-date action alerts.

• Legislative Representation • Issues Tracking and Information • Task Forces • Candidate Forums • Legislative Update Breakfast • Demographics Publication

Membership Packages Diamond Platinum Gold Silver Bronze Standard Nonprofit

Paul Talbot 131 Cedar Falls Drive, Kelso, WA 98626 360-703-9619 p.talbot@legendaryleads.net

Maid To Clean

Anja Shoun 3303 Virginia Way, Longview, WA 98632 360-270-8371 maidtocleancowlitz@gmail.com

Aubrey Southworth 250 Kelso Drive, Kelso, WA 98626 360-423-8880 aubrey.kelsohotel@gmail.com

Daava Mills Consulting

Daava Mills 203 Holcomb Avenue, Kelso, WA 98626 503-807-4414 Daava@millsgroupllc.com

First Choice Medical

Daren Bowlby 1157-3rd Avenue, Suite 145, Longview, WA 98632 360-575-8897 Daren@firstchoicemedical.us

Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Bar Association

Tom Lee 1338 Commerce Avenue, Suite F, Longview, WA 98632 425-219-6736 rtla@rtleelaw.attorney

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Contact Me Today daava@millsgroupllc.com Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 15

Your Chamber Connection Radio Show Wednesdays at 6 pm KEDO 1270 AM or 99.9 FM Contact Karen Sisson at 360-423-8400 or ksisson@kelsolongviewchamber.org to schedule your interview

Monica Seidl, project specialist Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments Childcare Entrepreneurs and Culinary Entrepreneurs

Duane Dalgleish, PUD Commissioner

Diane Craft, Koelsch Communities Community Liaison, and Kelly Ragsdale, Managing Director and Friend Columbia Theatre Association

JANUARY CALL-IN GUESTS

Shane Corson, Olympic Project Craig Yahne, Pacific Northwest Sasquatch Research Group Access a commercial-free recording of this show at https://soundcloud.com

Charise Brenes, owner Performance Occupational Health Services 16 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

Cowllitz County Commissioners Dennis Weber

County Commissioner, District 2

Private-public partnerships used by local government

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ublic-private partnerships often lead the way for innovative approaches to offering a variety of public services.

One of the longest local partnerships began in the 1980s: automated garbage pick-up. The City of Longview noticed increasing expenses for injuries to garbagemen because of repetitious movement injuries due to lifting metal garbage cans at each residence to empty them in disposal trucks. A private company already collecting waste from customers outside of the city limits won a competitive bidding process with the City of Longview to utilize newly developed technologies for automatic lifting and emptying heavy plastic garbage cans, from 90 to 360 gallons. Championed by then-Longview mayor George Raiter, the city agreed to purchase a new style of garbage cans and further agreed to allow the successful winner, now called Waste Control, to hire former city garbagemen and guaranteed those not hired away would have priority in filling vacant city positions. Raiter, who served as District No. 2 Commissioner from 2001-2012, also helped the County negotiate the purchase of the Headquarters Landfill from Weyerhaeuser, a decision that continues to pay dividends to the County’s general fund as well as keeping rates among the lowest in Washington state.

Another public-private partnership was also developed in the 1980s when I served as mayor. The City of Longview was experiencing high levels of rainwater infiltrating sewer lines because of cracks in the aging collection system. One horrendous example occurred on Hemlock Street between 30th and 32nd avenues. The cracked sewer pipes literally sucked homeowner Larry Crosby’s front yard and street away.

(I referred to this as Hemlock Lake; Crosby preferred the term of Lake Weber!) Realizing that removing street pavement to reinstall sewer pipes would force utility rates to unacceptable levels, City staff contracted with a company called Insituform,

whose in-line sewer repair expertise involved spreading a very flexible plastic sock inside the cracked pipes and then using hot water to trigger a fiberglass compound to harden. The City did repair the Crosby’s front yard and street and continues to contract with Insituform on a regular maintenance program.

At Cowlitz County there are numerous examples of such public-private partnerships.

As interest rates go up and down over time, the level of construction activities varies widely. That, in turn, makes it difficult to always have enough land-use planners to provide prompt building plan review and permit approvals, often leading to unfortunate and costly delays. One solution has been to contract with private land-use consultants to review applications when County staffing levels aren’t growing fast enough. Their results are supervised by our Building and Planning management team.

At the County public works department, the need for appraising and acquiring property and rights of way for various road improvement projects also varies year in and year out, rarely justifying the expense of hiring permanent, experienced staff. Our current practice is to retain a number of private land appraisal consultants to assess values and help negotiate prices. This can include buildings and other structures, as well as land needed for environmental mitigation. They work under supervision of our County engineer.

At the Cowlitz County Event Center on our fairgrounds, event staff excels at managing conferences, meeting rooms, and other special events, but it was determined to privatize the food service by choosing a single contractor to manage the large commercial kitchen built there. Periodically, that contract is offered for competitive bidding and for quite a few years we have been extremely pleased with the quality, service, and reliability of Summerland Catering.

Cowlitz County received millions and millions of dollars in federal grants to assist residents and businesses to weather the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than hire new staff, the commissioners chose to privatize the management of those grants.

For example, small businesses who could document loss of income could apply to the Cowlitz Economic Development Council for funds that would allow the businesses to remain open. Tenants who received protection from eviction during this time often fell behind in rent and utility payments. Another large grant program was managed by Lower Columbia Community Action (CAP) to pay landlords and utilities for documented amounts in arrears.

Lower Columbia CAP, a major partner with the County in For more County Commissioners, see page 19

18 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce would like to THANK the following loyal members for renewing their partnership with us this month.

All Out Sewer and Drain Service, Inc Community Home Health and Hospice Day Wireless Systems Heritage Bank - Longview Interstate Wood Products, Inc Lower Columbia College Lower Columbia Contractors Association McCord Bros Nissan Dodge Minuteman Press Pacific Fibre Products, Inc Paperbacks Galore, Inc Retirement Strategies

County Commissioners from page 18

assisting low-income residents eligible for a vast array of state and federally funded anti-poverty services, is a private nonprofit corporation authorized by the federal government which requires a board of directors that consists of one-third from the private sector, one-third from elected officials, and one-third from the targeted population. As a private organization it has the flexibility to actually cancel programs that simply do not “pencil out.” In the time I have served on the CAP board it has closed an in-home nursing program, a state health insurance advisory program, the Grounds for Opportunity Café in downtown Kelso and the Captured Treasures thrift store in downtown Longview (the latter two being employment training programs with inadequate enrollment). But programs that continue include Help Food Warehouse, Meals on Wheels, rural transportation services, Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) – a state program for largely disabled homeless individuals, self-help housing rehabilitation and construction programs, energy assistance and weatherization programs, and many more.

Finally, the County is developing protocols with Cowlitz County PUD to convert into electricity the methane gas produced at our Headquarters Landfill. Currently, the methane (considered a fossil fuel) occurs when municipal solid waste decomposes. It is collected via an elaborate piping system and sent to stacks which burn at 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit using another fossil fuel (natural gas). This conversion process is emerging technology that will help us lessen the negative impact of methane production. A final agreement is expected later in 2024.

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Includes: 2 cleanings per year, 2 annual exams and x-rays for $350 - A $1200 value.

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306 vine street | kelso Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 19

Business After Hours Host: Realty One Group Pacifica

Thank you Realty One Group Pacifica for hosting the Chamber's Business After Hours in January. The business community in attendance received tours of the 1924 Pickle Building, enjoyed great food and conversation, and some folks, carried home amazing raffle prizes.

20 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

sQuatch Fest 2024 Fun for Everyone!

Two days of sQuatch mania at the Cowlitz County Event Center Jan. 26-27. There were exhibits, vendors, entertainment at Brew Mountain and activities in the Kids' Cave. Our panel of speakers packed the house. Thank you Ken Gerhart, Michael Freeman, Jeff Meldrum, Cliff Barackman, Shane Corson and Matt Pruitt for being such great speakers and Craig Yahone for serving as our emcee again this year.

22 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 23

KELSO� LONGVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2024 VISITOR & MEMBERSHIP GUIDE

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12,000 visitors will come into the Visitor Center... and they are looking for YOU!

V Used year round by hundreds of local and out-of-area companies.

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Mechanical Specifications

Electronic Files

• Should be emailed to pfierst@kelsolongviewchamber.org • Please include your company name and publication in the subject line.

Logos, Images, Photos

• Formats: High resolution JPG, EPS, TIFF, PDF • Resolution must be 300 dpi. Images from the internet cannot be used.

Full Files

• PDF format, output to High Quality Print setting.

Images for Scanning

• Photographs (up to 8.5'' x 11 "), stationery, menus, business cards, etc.

• Artwork for scanning must be clear and unmarked.

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If you have any questions regarding acceptable artwork, please call 360-423-8400 or email pfierst@kelsolongviewchamber.org

KELSO t<) LONGVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

105 Minor Road Kelso, WA 98626

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Business News Senator tours Port of Kalama and talks with economic leaders From U.S. Senator Patty Murray website In January, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, toured the brand-new Mountain Timber Market at the Port of Kalama and heard from local leaders about the Port’s economic development initiatives.

“The Port of Kalama has really created something special with the Mountain Timber Market on the waterfront—this is such an incredible space for small businesses to reach new customers and for people to come together, shop small, and enjoy something to eat,” said Senator Murray. “I have been a big supporter of the Port for many years, and I will stay in close touch with them to ensure their needs are heard and acted on in the other Washington. I already know the Mountain Timber Market is going to be a boon to the economy and the tourism industry here in Kalama—it’s great to experience it firsthand today and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

Join Us for Legislative Briefings

Beginning at 7am, each Monday throughout the Legislative session.

Each week our legislators from the 19th and 20th districts present their priorities, positions and bills that could affect our region. Dave Mastin, vice president, Association of Washington Business, is also in attendance weekly with information about bills and possible bills being introduced and how they may positively or negatively impact business.

Join Us via Zoom... https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86395310994?pwd=L2 JWWjEvZGJpQnpsbGFjb3Bx TkFVZz09 Meeting ID: 863 9531 0994 Passcode: 48504

“My fellow Commissioners and I—along with our staff—were thrilled to welcome Senator Murray back to Kalama,” said Randy Sweet, Port Commissioner. “The Port of Kalama’s recreational waterfront has undergone a remarkable redevelopment since her last visit, and we were delighted to show the Senator the many ways the Port has contributed to our community, and to our state and national economy.”

The roughly 33,000-square-foot Mountain Timber Market—a two-story multi-use market that serves as a destination for shopping, dining, and community events, and serves as a small business incubator—opened in November and includes about a dozen businesses so far. The Association of Washington Business recognized the Port of Kalama in November for their vision and work opening the Mountain Timber Market; the Port was one of ten businesses recognized for growing the local and state economy with recent projects.

Ports are the backbone of Washington’s economy, and Senator Murray has been a longtime champion to ensure their competitiveness. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Murray helped pass invests more than $17 billion in port infrastructure and waterways with the primary aim of addressing needed repairs and maintenance backlogs, reducing congestion to strengthen our supply chains and remove bottlenecks to expedite commerce, cutting emissions near ports by boosting electrification, and investing in other low-carbon technologies to reduce environmental impacts on neighboring communities.

In particular, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law designates $450 million annually for five years for the Port Infrastructure Development Program. This will allow significant improvements to port facilities and projects that include: loading and unloading of goods at a port; movement of goods into, out of, around, or within a port; resilience projects addressing rising sea-level, flooding, extreme weather events, and natural disasters; and environmental and emissions mitigation measures.

For more Business News, see page 27 26 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

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Business News from page 26

The 2020 Water Development Resources Act includes changes secured by Murray to the Harbor Maintenance Tax and Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund. These changes will provide billions of dollars each year to invest in and enhance the global competitiveness of ports in Washington state and across the country.

Seven retail industry predictions for 2024 Jan. 25, 2024 | Written by Washington Retail Communications Inside Washington Retail

Longview Police accepting Citizens' Police Academy applications The Citizens’ Police Academy is to develop citizen awareness and understanding of the role of law enforcement in our community and an opportunity for law enforcement to hear from the community.

The academy takes place in February. It is10-week class from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays and one Saturday morning. Class size is limited to the first 30 applicants admitted. Prior attendees may be admitted after all new applicants are processed (if class space is available).

According to a recent article by Susan Reda, vice president of education strategy, the retail industry in 2024 is expected to experience “guarded positivity” despite the geopolitical challenges on the horizon. The article suggests that artificial intelligence’s influence will continue to grow, and consumers will demand sustainable actions from retailers. The customer experience will remain more important than ever, and retailers must adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Program Requirements

Reda also highlights that the bullish spending retailers experienced during the holidays between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday is undeniable, supporting consumers’ commitment to gift-giving despite inflationary pressure. More than 200 million people shopped online and in stores, according to National Retail Federation, spending an average of $321.41 on holiday-related purchases during the 5-day holiday weekend.

It’s worth noting that while AI is already being used for demand forecasting and customer sentiment analysis, it remains an outlier when it comes to making industry-wide predictions. A human touch is needed when the data set comprises global policies, cultural swings, demographic shifts, and various industries.

In 2024, the retail industry is expected to be cautiously optimistic, with retailers needing to adapt to changing consumer preferences and demands while navigating geopolitical challenges and economic headwinds.

Read the full blog post here

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Participants must be at least 21 years of age and work or live in Cowlitz County.

•

Applicants can have no felony or domestic violence convictions.

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Misdemeanor arrests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

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Applicants must pass a background check conducted by law enforcement.

Course topics and activities include court process, crime prevention, defensive tactics, driving under the influence (DUI) investigations, firearms, gang enforcement, investigations, K-9 programs, narcotics investigation, patrol function, property crimes and traffic law.

Participants are given an opportunity to ride with a patrol officer from one of the agencies for a maximum three-hour period.

Participants are required to attend all classes. However, the Academy Staff may grant excused absences on a case-by-case basis.

Academy staff are commitment to providing the best instruction for each topic. Instructors include members of the Longview Police, Kelso Police and the Cowlitz County Sheriff ’s Office, as well as other members of the local criminal justice community.

Applications and more information are available on the City’s website

“Your Lenders For Life” Mortgage Consultants pictured left to right: • BRANDON NICKEL, Loan Officer NMLS #2042243, (971) 506-0927 • KATIE DILLINGER, Loan Officer NMLS #1576918, (360) 353-8290 • BRITTANY HOWELLS, Loan Officer NMLS #1669059, (971) 777-3321 (360) 414-4000 www.lifemort.com 842 Washington Way, #110 Longview, WA 98632

Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024 | 27

Ribbon Cuttings Welcome New Members

Thank you to these Ambassadors who participated in ribbon cutting celebrations during January!

Josh Carter Carter Venture Solutions Peter Clarke ANC Movers Diane Craft Koelsch Communities James Hoyt

Heritage Bank Nick Lemiere Edward Jones Eric McCrandall Family Health Center Shylah Tapani Axecutioner Clear Choice Dermatology, 1815 Hudson St., Longview, 360-562-9800

Longview Self Storage, 4420 Ocean Beach Hwy., Longview, 360-577-4420

28 | Kelso Longview Business Connection | February 2024

Betsy Wyatt RE/MAX Premier Group