Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Business Connection July 2025 by Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce

Business Connection

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Bonnie Delaney CEO

Looking for Community Champions: Become a Chamber Ambassador!

Are you passionate about your community? Do you enjoy connecting with people, promoting local businesses, and being in the know about what’s happening in town? Then we have the perfect opportunity for you—become a Chamber Ambassador!

The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce is looking for enthusiastic, reliable, and community-minded individuals to join our Ambassador team. Ambassadors are the friendly faces who welcome new members, attend ribbon cuttings, assist at Chamber events, and serve as key connectors between the Chamber and our business community.

Why become an Ambassador?

• Expand your network – Build strong relationships with local business leaders and fellow volunteers.

• Boost your visibility – Represent your business while supporting others and increasing your presence in the community.

• Give back – Make a meaningful impact by supporting local commerce, growth, and connection.

• Have fun – From mixers to grand openings, our Ambassadors are at the heart of the action!

Whether you're an outgoing extrovert or a behind-the-scenes coordinator, there’s a place for you on our team. The one thing all our Ambassadors share is a love for this community and a desire to see it thrive.

If you're ready to make a difference and have a great time doing it, we’d love to have you join us.

Interested?

To learn more, contact the Chamber office today or email Bonnie at: bdelaney@kelsolongviewchamber.org

Lindsey Cope President

Summer in Kelso is Heating Up with Family Fun, Local Flavor, and Classic Cars!

The Kelso Business & Community Association (KBCA) is turning up the heat this summer with a lineup of exciting, community-focused events that celebrate innovative youth, historic intrigue, and community spirit!

Hot August Crimes – Progressive Dinner & Walking Tour

August 7

Join us Thursday, August 7, for a night of food, mystery and history in Downtown Kelso! Hot August Crimes is the next installment of our popular Progressive Dinner & Walking Tour series. Guests will enjoy food and drink from local eateries while enjoying an entertaining look at the city’s past. It’s a can't-miss evening adventure through downtown Kelso that combines culture and cuisine in a truly unique way.

Cruise-In at the Crossing Car Show

August 9

Rev up your summer at Three Rivers Crossing on Saturday, August 9, for the Cruise-In at the Crossing! We’re proud to support the Cruise-In at the Crossing Car Show at Three Rivers Crossing. Whether you're a die-hard classic car enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with the family, this is a can’t-miss summer celebration of chrome, community, and cool rides.

Kelso Kids Bridge Market

August 16

We’re thrilled to bring back the Kelso Kids Bridge Market, where the spotlight shines on our youngest entrepreneurs. This unique market gives kids the chance to set up shop, sell their creations, and learn valuable business skills in a fun and supportive environment. It's one of our most heartwarming events! It’s fun, educational, and incredibly inspiring for both participants and shoppers alike. It is the perfect opportunity to cheer on the next generation of business leaders!

For the latest updates visit us at www.letsgokelso.com and follow us on Facebook: @letsgokelso.

With events like these, summer in Kelso is all about connection, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun.

Let’s go, Kelso!

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Bonnie Delaney CEO

Another Incredible Day on the Green Thank You Everyone!

What a day! The Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Golf Tournament was, once again, a huge success—and we have you to thank for it. From the beautiful sunshine at the Longview Country Club to the laughter, camaraderie, and (sometimes questionable) golf swings, this year's event was one for the books.

A massive thank you to all of our sponsors and players—you showed up in full force and helped make this event not only fun but meaningful. This tournament is more than a great day on the course; it’s one of our Chamber’s most important fundraisers of the year. The money raised helps us continue the work we do year-round—connecting businesses,

A Day on the Green: Supporting Students at Hole 14

This year’s Chamber Golf Classic had everything you could hope for in a day on the course—great weather, good company, a healthy dose of competition, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. I had the pleasure of spending the day stationed at Hole 14, and it quickly became clear that this was the spot for lighthearted entertainment.

bang ball hit—meant another contribution toward supporting education in our community. And people showed up in a big way. Whether they donated out of generosity, curiosity, or just because they wanted to see what all the noise was about, the support was steady and appreciated.

It was a great reminder that even a lighthearted moment on the course can serve a bigger purpose. Hole 14 was full of laughter, but at the end of the day, we also helped make a difference for local students working toward a better future. That’s a pretty solid way to spend a Monday.

So, thank you to everyone who came by—whether you bought a ticket, swung at a bang ball, or just stopped to say hi. You helped make Hole

Golfers rolled through in waves—some there to shave strokes off their scorecards, others just enjoying a laid-back day with friends and coworkers. Being relatively new to golf myself, I learned a few things by watching, but let’s be honest—most of the action at our hole had nothing to do with perfect form. The real fun was watching people get totally caught off guard by our bang balls. You’d be surprised how many confident swings turned into full body jumps and wide-eyed stares after one of those goes off. It was harmless, hilarious, and had people talking all the way to the next tee.

But there was more to Hole 14 than just practical jokes and golf chatter. We were also helping raise money for local student scholarships through a special raffle hosted by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation. Every raffle ticket sold—and therefor, every

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Lower Columbia College

Tamra Gilchrist Michaela Jackson Dean of Instruction Interim Dean of Education

Expanding Opportunity Through Innovation: LCC’s Partnership with Texas A&M and Pitsco Education

At Lower Columbia College (LCC), we are committed to developing programs that prepare students for the evolving needs of today’s workforce. That commitment, along with launching a new Automation, Instrumentation, and Robotics program and a new Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, recently led us to Texas A&M University where we explored cutting-edge advancements in engineering, robotics, automation, and computer science. The visit was both energizing and affirming, reinforcing LCC’s mission to provide hands-on, industryrelevant education that strengthens opportunities for students and supports the economic vitality of our region.

best practices with our team is an extraordinary asset to LCC.

During their visit, we toured Texas A&M’s state-ofthe-art laboratories and facilities, engaging directly with faculty at the forefront of technological education and innovation. We were particularly excited to see the direct connections between robotics and its applications in engineering, instrumentation, automation, and computer science, areas that are increasingly central to the industries here in Southwest Washington.

One of the most impactful elements of the visit was the opportunity to observe how Pitsco Education materials engage students in realworld problem solving. These hands-on robotics kits are more than just learning tools; they are bridges between theory and practice. Seeing students using Pitsco systems to explore coding, mechanics, and automation in a collaborative and meaningful way sparked ideas about how LCC can integrate these same materials into classrooms and labs.

The visit was made even more valuable by the generosity and expertise of Dr. Mohamed Gharib, a professor at Texas A&M whose passion for education is matched only by his deep subject-matter expertise. Dr. Gharib’s work in robotics and engineering education is recognized nationally, and his willingness to share his knowledge and

This partnership is already bearing fruit. LCC is working closely with Texas A&M and Pitsco Education to train our faculty and update our curriculum to reflect the most current and relevant practices in these high-demand fields.

As part of this collaboration, LCC Engineering faculty member Firaol Fekadu was recently invited by Dr. Mohamed Gharib to attend an intensive robotics training course at Texas A&M. He spent a week gaining in-depth experience with the curriculum and Pitsco Education materials in preparation for bringing this hands-on learning approach to LCC’s programs. The goal is simple: to ensure that students at LCC receive the same level of hands-on, skills-based instruction that they would receive at a major research institution right here in Cowlitz County.

The implications of this work are significant. As LCC continues to expand its robotics, automation, and computer science programs, our local industries will benefit from a pipeline of skilled, knowledgeable workers ready to contribute on day one. This work is about building futures, strengthening the economy, and positioning Longview and Kelso as leaders in workforce innovation.

LCC is grateful for the support of the Chamber of Commerce and our local business partners as we take these next steps. The momentum is real, the opportunities are growing, and the future for LCC students and our community is brighter than ever.

Success on the Green, Growth in the Community

I couldn’t be more thrilled with how successful our Golf Tournament was on June 16th! The networking out on the course was incredible, and the feedback I received, as well as what the golf course heard, was all positive. We’ve already locked in multiple teams and sponsorships for next year, which tells me loud and clear. "We’re on the right track!"

It’s been requested that we lean into making this tournament even more focused on networking and I’m absolutely here for it. This year brought in the highest net revenue we’ve seen in years, with less overhead and fewer resources. I’m so proud of everyone who helped make this event such a win and of the direction the Chamber is headed.

As the owner of Sho’me Real Estate, I’ve said it before: Change can be uncomfortable but it’s also where real growth happens.

Now, we’re shifting gears and diving into planning Bingo Night, which will help raise scholarship funds for 2026. More details are coming soon, but trust me it’s going to be a great time for a great cause.

We’re also working hard behind the scenes to finalize Jingle All the Way 2025 and Squatch Fest 2026. Both events offer amazing opportunities to get involved, whether through sponsorships, donations, radio ads, merch branding, or face-to-face networking.

Starting next Monday, we’ll begin rolling out opportunities to participate, promote your business, and engage in meaningful business-to-business connections. You won’t want to miss it.

And one more thing, I’m so excited for our July Business After Hours, hosted by Stewart Title! These gatherings are always fun, relaxed, and full of great connections. And yes, the public is welcome, whether you’re a small or large business, nonprofit, or just someone local

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Riley Smith Administrative Asstistant & Visitor Center Manager

This Month in History: Monticello Hotel 102nd Anniversary

Monticello Hotel, Circa 1924

July 14th marks the 102nd anniversary of the Monticello Hotel in downtown Longview. Designed by the Kansas City architectural firm Hoit, Price & Barnes, the hotel showcases Georgian Revival style, with red brick accented by white terra-cotta trim.

When it opened in 1923, the six-story hotel featured 160 guest rooms. In 2019, those rooms were converted into 60 modern apartments. The Monticello also includes a 200-seat dining room, an 80-seat coffee shop, and a beautifully appointed 75-seat ballroom.

Prior to its opening, artist Joseph Knowles was commissioned to create a series of 42 murals titled “The Winning of the West.” These murals still adorn the lobby today, adding to the building’s historical charm.

Standing proudly in the heart of Longview, the Monticello Hotel remains one of the city’s most iconic and beloved landmarks.

City of Longview

Angela Abel Public Information Officer

Summer in Full Swing: Events, Camps & Council Changes

Longview is the place to be this summer! From concerts and outdoor movies to summer camps, reading adventures, and festive 4th of July events, we’ve packed the season with fun, free, and family-friendly activities.

“There’s something special about summer in Longview. It brings out the best of our parks, programs, and community spirit. Whether you’re looking to cool off with a movie, dance by the lake, or get your kids involved in something creative, we’re proud to offer something for everyone.” - City Manager Jennifer Wills

City Council Meetings Move to Tuesdays for the Summer

To help residents enjoy Longview’s popular summer concerts at the lake, the City Council will temporarily shift its regular meetings from Thursdays to Tuesdays during July and August. Meetings will still be held on the second and fourth weeks of the month. This adjustment reflects the City’s support for community participation in local events while maintaining transparency and accessibility in governance. Agendas, meeting times, and access links will continue to be posted online.

Concerts, Fireworks, and Outdoor Events

Firecracker Fun Run 5K

Thursday, July 3 | 6:00 PM Hemlock Plaza, Lake Sacajawea

Kick off the Go Fourth festivities with the annual Firecracker 5K, organized by Longview Parks and Recreation. All ages are welcome— fun costumes encouraged. Youth 8 and under run free with regular registration. Broadway Street will be open for the parade.

Summer Concerts at the Lake

Thursdays, July 10 – August 14 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Martin’s Dock, Lake Sacajawea

Free and family-friendly, the Summer Concerts series features a wide range of musical acts, local food vendors, and the Rotary Club of Longview’s beer and wine garden.

Concert Lineup:

• July 10 – Beat Frequency

• July 17 – Stevie Starlight Band (6 PM) & Hvshi (7:30 PM)

• July 24 – Paperback Writers

• July 31 – Groove Nation

• August 7 – Hair Nation

• August 14 – Stacy Jones

Free Outdoor Movie Nights

Pre-movie activities begin at 7:30 PM; movies start at dusk.

Bring your blankets or low-back chairs and enjoy a summer night under the stars.

Movie Schedule:

• August 15 – Ghostbusters at Martin’s Dock

• August 22 – The Goonies at Commerce & Broadway

• August 29 – Moana 2 at Martin’s Dock

• September 26 – Top Gun: Maverick at Mint Valley Golf Course

Programs for Kids and Families Summer Camp Imagine

Limited spots remain in Summer Camp Imagine, a full-day summer camp for students entering grades 1–5. Held at Kessler Elementary, this eight-week camp runs June 23 through August 15, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Extended care is available.

Campers enjoy themed activities, crafts, movement, and communitybuilding in a supportive, fun setting. To register, call Longview Recreation at 360-442-5400 or visit the Parks and Recreation webpage.

» Continued on Page 13.

City of Longview

Angela Abel Public Information Officer

Library Summer Reading: Color Our World

The Longview Public Library’s Summer Reading Program continues through August with hands-on events and reading incentives for all ages. The theme this year is Color Our World, and there’s still plenty to explore.

Upcoming Library Events:

• Family Story Time - Fridays, June 20–July 25 | 10:30 AM

Enjoy stories, songs, and parachute play on the lawn, followed by crafts indoors. No story time on July 4.

• Sidewalk Chalk Drawing Contest - Wednesday, June 25 | 10 AM–3 PM Create sidewalk art and compete for prizes. All ages welcome.

• Family Movie: Dog Man – Wednesday, July 2 | 2 PM Free screening with popcorn. Rated PG.

• Fun with Color Science – Wednesday, July 9 | 2–3:30 PM Try out color-based science experiments at interactive stations.

• Art Demo Fair – Wednesday, July 16 | 10 AM–3 PM Drop in to see local artists at work. All ages welcome.

• All Kids Book Club – Wednesday, July 23 | 2–3:30 PM Read about Vincent van Gogh and create art inspired by his work.

• Summer Picnic featuring Red Yarn – Tuesday, July 29 | 5:30–7 PM Music, food, and family fun on the library lawn. Open to all.

• Summer Music in the Stacks – August 6 at 11 AM, August 7 at 2 PM Live chamber music performances in the library.

• End of Summer Readathon - Thursday, August 7 | 5–9 PM Fundraiser for a new children’s service desk. Open to all independent readers.

All events are free and open to the public, no library card required.

Downtown Events: Summer on Broadway

Enjoy the vibrancy of downtown with recurring events throughout the season:

• Tuesday Farmers Market Fresh produce, flowers, and local goods.

• Mi Familia Swapmeet (Weekends) Cultural crafts, food, and vendors.

• Kid’s Market – July 17 Young entrepreneurs showcase their creations.

It’s going to be a great summer. We hope you’ll join us!

Board of Directors

Sean Kiffe

President

NORPAC

Pam Whittle

President Elect

Realty One Group Pacifica

Jason Meunier

Treasurer

Fibre Federal Credit Union

Nicole Tideman

Legal Counsel

Walstead Mertsching

Diane Craft

Vice President Koelsch Communities

Rich Coleman

Bicoastal Media

Duane Dalgleish

Cowlitz PUD

Michelle Domenico

St. John / PeaceHealth

Bill Fogarty

Twin City Bank

Kristin Gaines Alcoa

Veryl Anderson

City Council Mayor

Kelso

John Paul

KUKN / KLOG / 101.5 The Blitz

Ted Sprague

Cowlitz Economic

Development Council

MaryAlice Wallis

City of Longview

Seth McNelly

Children's Discovery Museum

Elisha Jolma

Sho'me Real Estate

Keith Johason

Smurfit / Westrock

Ted Sprague President

Port Districts and Economic Development

We are fortunate in Cowlitz County to have three of the most successful Ports in the State of Washington. Our three Ports are different, varied, and bring essential economic development to our State and region. The Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC) and the three Ports have formed powerful partnerships over time that drive regional growth, enhance trade, and create jobs. By working together, we amplify each other’s strengths and help communities grow.

At the core of our collaboration is the shared goal of economic development. Port districts provide the physical infrastructure and connectivity necessary for trade—such as docks, industrial land, warehouses, and rail lines—while economic developers promote these assets to attract businesses. For example, a port district might expand a terminal or develop an industrial park, and in alignment with economic developers these developments will be marketed to manufacturers, logistics companies, and foreign investors. This partnership ensures that infrastructure investments align with market demand and regional development strategies.

Additionally, port districts and economic developers often coordinate on workforce development and job creation. Port activities generate a wide range of employment opportunities, from shipping and logistics to construction and manufacturing and administration. Partnering with Workforce SW and Lower Columbia College, among others, insures we have the right workforce to meet the needs of future development. In return, the presence of functioning port districts makes a region more attractive to employers who rely on efficient transportation and supply chains.

Strategic planning is another area where their collaboration is essential. Port districts must anticipate future cargo volumes, environmental regulations, and technological trends. Economic developers contribute insights into industry trends, business needs, and demographic shifts. The Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments is another partner who convenes all the cities, county, Ports etc. to meet future demands. Together, we create comprehensive development plans that balance economic growth with sustainability, land use, and community impact.

Public-private partnerships often emerge from this collaboration. The CEDC is proud to play a small role in assisting in the securing of funding or facilitating partnerships between the port district, the state, federal programs and private investors. These joint ventures can help fund infrastructure projects that neither party could complete alone.

The partnerships between port districts and economic developers are essential for unlocking the full economic potential of a region. By aligning infrastructure with business needs, coordinating workforce efforts, and planning strategically, the ports build more resilient, competitive, and vibrant communities. As global trade and technology evolve, these collaborations will remain critical to ensuring ports remain not just gateways for goods, but engines for economic prosperity.

Did you know the Chamber has its own radio program?

Every Wednesday at 6PM or catch a recording of it on Sound Cloud

Listen Now

What a fantastic evening! June’s Business After Hours brought the community together in the heart of Longview at the Summer on Broadway, and we couldn’t have asked for a better setting—or better company.

This month, we had the honor of celebrating the incredible Go 4th Committee lead by the amazing Arleen Hubble, who leads the team behind Longview’s beloved Go 4th Festival. Year after year, this group of dedicated volunteers works tirelessly to bring joy, patriotism, and unforgettable memories to our community every 4th of July. It was a privilege to shine a spotlight on their efforts and say a heartfelt thank you for everything they do.

Thank you to the Lions Club for their delicious popcorn—it added that perfect summer touch to the evening! And we are so grateful to the Cowlitz Community Farmers Market for staying open later just for our guests.

Business After Hours is always about connection, celebration, and community—and this one hit all the right notes. Thank you to everyone who came out, and a huge thanks again to the Go 4th Committee for reminding us what it means to show up, give back!.

by: -- Broadway - In Front of City Hall -At the corner of 15th & Broadway & corner of 15 & Olympia

Hosted

Ribbon Cuttings

Welcome New Members!

June was packed with celebrations as we welcomed Sunrise Village, Byte By Bite Customized Cookies & Digital Delights, and Cortex Marketing to the Chamber family!

Sunrise Village opened their beautiful new space with heart and purpose, marking the culmination of years of thoughtful work, strategic planning, and dedicated funding. The grand opening was a testament to their commitment to creating a meaningful and welcoming environment for the community. It’s inspiring to see their vision come to life in such a vibrant and intentional way.

Byte By Bite brought creativity and joy with their one-of-a-kind blend of sweet treats and digital flair. Their event presence was more than just fun—it supported a meaningful cause by raising awareness for Mosaic Down Syndrome. With delicious cookies and a clever twist, Byte By Bite continues to show how small businesses can make a big impact.

Cortex Marketing rounded out the month with fresh energy and smart strategies, offering their expertise to help local businesses thrive. With a sharp marketing voice and a focus on elevating brands, they’re ready to guide businesses toward greater visibility and success. Cortex is clearly passionate about helping others shine in today’s competitive landscape.

Thanks to everyone who came out to support these awesome local businesses. We love watching our community grow!

Let's Celebrate Your Milestone in Style!

Host a ribbon cutting event and share your success with the community! It’s the perfect way to showcase your business, build buzz, and connect with local leaders and customers. Ready to make it official? Schedule your ribbon cutting with us today!

Contact Bonnie Delaney at 360-423-8400 or email at: bdelaney@kelsolongviewchamber.org

NEW MEMBERS

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

Membership packages to fit your needs

Business Association with opportunities to promote trade through Chamber socials, special events and committee participation.

• Annual Meeting and Banquet

• Networking Events

• Committee Participation

• Business Contacts

• Quarterly Membership Meetings

• Civic Representation

• Monthly Business After Hours

Business Services include marketing for your business, referrals and access to Chamber publications and research data.

• Mailing Labels

• Membership Window Decals

• Member Referrals

• Ribbon Cutting

• Website Links

• Member to Member Discounts

• Membership Directory

• Tax Deduction

• Newsletter

• Business Card Display

• Use of Chamber Logo

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

• Legislative Representation

• Issues Tracking and Information

• Task Forces

• Candidate Forums

• Legislative Update Breakfast

• Demographics Publication

Membership Packages

• Diamond

• Platinum

• Gold

• Silver

• Bronze

• Standard

• Nonprofit

A big THANK YOU to all the new and loyal members who have started or continued their partnership with us this month:

• Columbia River Floor Covering

• WorkSource SW Washington

• Walt's Meats

• River Ridge Real Estate - Kristin Cheatley

• Pacific Electrical Services

• Chrome City Guide Service, LLC

• Soundguy Productions

• Salty Beaver

• Rise & Thrive Wellness Collection

• NW Apothecary, LLC

• The Lovely Lia Esthetics

• Americana Health & Rehabilitation Center

• Big Smoke in Little Kalama

• Up to Par Cleaning LLC

• J.S. Chappell, LLC

• Pape' Material Handling

• Employer's Overload

• Sides Bookkeeping Services

• Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Business Connection July 2025

Business Connection

Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce

Looking for Community Champions: Become a Chamber Ambassador!

Why become an Ambassador?

Interested?

Summer in Kelso is Heating Up with Family Fun, Local Flavor, and Classic Cars!

Hot August Crimes – Progressive Dinner & Walking Tour

Cruise-In at the Crossing Car Show

Kelso Kids Bridge Market

Another Incredible Day on the Green Thank You Everyone!

A Day on the Green: Supporting Students at Hole 14

LOWER RATES. FASTER PROCESS.

Expanding Opportunity Through Innovation: LCC’s Partnership with Texas A&M and Pitsco Education

Success on the Green, Growth in the Community

This Month in History: Monticello Hotel 102nd Anniversary

Summer in Full Swing: Events, Camps & Council Changes

Concerts, Fireworks, and Outdoor Events

Free Outdoor Movie Nights

Programs for Kids and Families Summer Camp Imagine

City of Longview

Library Summer Reading: Color Our World

Downtown Events: Summer on Broadway

Board of Directors

Port Districts and Economic Development

Did you know the Chamber has its own radio program?

Listen Now

Ribbon Cuttings

Welcome New Members!

Let's Celebrate Your Milestone in Style!

NEW MEMBERS

SPENCER CREEK STATION