Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Business Connection May 2025
Let’s Talk About the Winners!
Crystal Apple Awards shined a light on the education heroes among us—the ones shaping futures and inspiring young minds every single day.
• K-12 Support Staff Superstars: Teresa Aloe from Butler Acres Elementary and Lizbet Bueno from Northlake Elementary stole the show with their dedication behind the scenes.
• K-12 Certified Teacher: Andrea Bergquist from RA Long High School—clearly a student favorite and now a community one too!
• K-12 Administrator: Scott Merzoian of Monticello Middle School keeps everything running smoothly with heart and hustle.
• Higher Ed Faculty of the Year: Ashley Cahill from Lower Columbia College – a faculty and student favorite.
• Higher Ed Support Staff of the Year: Nicole Buffham from Lower Columbia College, recognized for going above and beyond for students and staff alike.
Next up were the Pillars of Strength Awards, honoring those who
Ambassador of the Year: James Hoyt – The
Heart and
If you've attended a Business After Hours, a ribbon cutting, or pretty much chances are you've been greeted by the ever-smiling, always-upbeat James we’re thrilled to honor James as our 2025 Ambassador of the Year—and more deserving.
James doesn’t just show up—he lights up the room. Whether he's helping opening, mingling at networking events, or volunteering behind the scenes, genuine kindness that makes everyone feel welcome. His signature smile cornerstone of our Ambassador team, and let’s just say, he’s a crowd favorite
Need someone to rally a group for a photo? James is there. Need a laugh Need someone to cheer you on when you're new to the Chamber family? connection, and the steady presence that embodies everything our Ambassadors
His dedication to the Chamber and our community goes far beyond obligation—it’s with heart, supports with purpose, and always brings that little extra something great ones.
Thank you, James, for being the friendly face so many have come to count and good vibes truly set the tone for what being an Ambassador is all about. Ambassador of the Year, you’ve earned every bit of this recognition!
Lifetime Achievement Award
Rally Wallace of RA. Long High School received a standing ovation for decades of passion and dedication to education. A true local legend!
Scholarships That Spark Futures
Seven local students have been awarded scholarships by the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation—a reminder of how this community supports its youth. These scholarships are more than financial aid; they’re a vote of confidence in the potential and ambition of the next generation. From future engineers to educators, healthcare workers to entrepreneurs, these students now pursue their dreams with the backing of a community that believes in their success. In Kelso and Longview, lifting up young people isn’t just a value—it’s a way of life.
A Sweet (and Sparkly) Way to Give Back
Guests enjoyed a fun and creative way to support the scholarship fund—by purchasing $20 mystery boxes packed with delightful surprises. Each box held a locally made dessert, a beautiful flower arrangement, or, for one lucky participant, a stunning pair of diamond earrings! The treats were sweet, the energy was high, and the smiles were everywhere. Thanks to your generosity and enthusiasm, we raised over $1,500 to help local students pursue their educational dreams. Every box opened brought us one step closer to making a difference.
It was truly a night to remember—an evening filled with joy, gratitude, and heartfelt celebration. From touching moments and inspiring stories to shared laughter and lively conversations, every part of the night reflected the spirit and strength of this incredible community.
Rally Wallace Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
A huge thank you to everyone who nominated outstanding individuals, cast their votes, volunteered their time, and showed up with open hearts and generous spirits. Your involvement made the event meaningful and memorable. Nights like this remind us why we’re so proud to be part of such a supportive, connected, and caring community.
The Chamber Crew: All Heart, All Hustle, All Fun
If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the smiles, the celebrations, and the seamless events at the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce—look no further. Our Chamber team tries to bring energy, the creativity, and yes, the fun, to everything we do.
From ribbon cuttings, sQuatch Fest, Career Exploration, Golf Tournament, Membership Meetings, Legislative updates or to the Pillars of Strength & Crystal Apple Awards, every success was the result of this group pulling together, lifting each other up, and pouring heart and hustle into every detail.
Let’s give a shoutout to the incredible crew that makes the magic happen:
• Walter Deans – Graphic Design & Marketing
The creative engine behind our look and feel. Every flyer, banner, and event backdrop that made you go “wow” had Walter’s talented hands all over it.
• Elisha Jolma – Business Development
A powerhouse connector with a heart for local businesses. Elisha’s energy and dedication help keep the Chamber thriving and growing.
• Kristin Stafford – Accounting Manager
The rock-solid foundation of our financial side. Kristin keeps us balanced (literally) and supports every initiative with expert precision and care.
• Riley Smith – Visitor Center
Always the friendly face greeting newcomers and longtime locals alike. Riley’s warmth and welcoming spirit make the Chamber feel like home.
Together, we’ve laughed a lot, worked hard, and moved the Chamber forward in exciting new ways this year. Whether it was launching new programs, hosting memorable events, or showing up for our members and partners, we did it as a team—with joy, determination, and more than a few goofy photo ops along the way.
We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished—and even more excited for what’s ahead. So here’s to the late nights, the early mornings, the inside jokes, the last-minute fixes, and the unstoppable spirit that drives this team. We’re all in, and we’re just getting started.
Thank you, Kelso–Longview, for supporting us, believing in us, and growing with us.
With a Little Help from Our (Amazing) Friends: Celebrating Our Event Sponsors
The Pillars of Strength & Crystal Apple Awards is always one of the most meaningful nights of the year—and it's only possible because of the incredible support from our sponsors and our Education Committee that works tirelessly behind the scenes. This event is a celebration of the people who make our community shine, and thanks to our sponsors, we get to honor them in true style.
Before the lights came up and applause began at the Pillars of Strength & Crystal Apple Awards, a dedicated group of champions were already hard at work behind the scenes. The Kelso Longview Chamber Education Committee is the driving force that brings this inspiring evening to life year after year. Their passion for education, commitment to community, and tireless planning are what make this celebration so meaningful.
This powerhouse committee is led by Chair Rachel Leinweber of Kelso School District and includes a dream team of educators, workforce advocates, and community leaders:
• Melissa Boudreau, Kelso High School
• Tamra Gilchrist, Lower Columbia College
• Alyssa Joyner, Workforce Southwest Washington
• Bill Ofstun, Longview Public Schools
• Star Thrope, Three Rivers Christian
• Malanie Walker, Career Connect SW ESD 112
• Monica Seidl, Cowlitz Wahkiakum Council of Governments
• Teedara Wolf, Cowlitz PUD
• Elisha Jolma & Bonnie Delaney, KLCC
You are the heartbeat of this celebration, and the community is better because of your dedication.
Without the help of our generous businesses we simply couldn’t do what we do. From underwriting the event to helping us provide scholarships, delicious treats, beautiful décor, and the opportunity for families to celebrate together—you made it happen.
Diamond Members – The Cornerstones of Our Celebration
A huge thank-you to our Diamond Members who go above and beyond to support the Chamber and the community year-round:
• KLOG-KUKN - 101.5 The Blitz
• BiCoastal Media
• Foster Farms
• PeaceHealth
• The Daily News
• And our newest Diamond Member, Jared Nieman Photo & Video Production, who not only sponsors but beautifully captures the magic of the evening with his outstanding photography and video work!
Corporate Sponsors – The Backbone of the Event
These generous businesses helped bring the evening to life with their support:
• Cor Tech Plumbing & Mechanical
• Fibre Federal Credit Union
• Heritage Bank
• KLTV
• Lower Columbia Longshoremen’s Credit Union
• Pacific Office Automation
• Red Canoe Credit Union
• Safecover Roofing
• Sho’Me Real Estate
• Stewart Title
Student Sponsors – Supporting the Next Generation
These sponsors made it possible for all of our scholarship recipients and their families to attend the event completely free of charge. Talk about investing in the future!
• Alliant Insurance
• Copies Today
• Life Mortgage
• River Ridge Real Estate Group
• Youth & Family Link
Special Thanks – Sweet Touches and Thoughtful Details
No event is complete without those special touches—and we’re grateful to the businesses that provided the extra sparkle:
• Cookies by Julie – for the sweet treats that had everyone smiling
• Cornerstone Flowers – for the stunning floral arrangements
• Kelso School District and Longview Public Schools – for their incredible ongoing support of our educators
• Main Event Party Store and More – for the fun and fabulous balloon arch
• Storyboard Delights – for their delightful contributions to the evening’s atmosphere
To every sponsor: THANK YOU. Your support doesn’t just make this event possible—it makes it unforgettable. We are excited for next year’s event and continuing to recognize are businesses and business leaders and the continuing contributions of our educators.
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
Kelly Godden
Specialty Rents
Veryl Anderson Mayor City of 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
Elish Jolma
Sho'me Real Estate
Keith Johason
Smurfit / Westrock
Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce
Kristin Stafford Accounting Manager
What Chamber Life Means to Me: Strength in Connection
At the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Life is more than a slogan—it’s the rhythm that drives local progress, connection, and shared success. It’s found in the handshakes at Business After Hours, the laughter at quarterly luncheons, the collaboration behind every ribbon cutting, and the cheers at Pillars of Strength and the Crystal Apple Awards.
Each month, we witness the heartbeat of our community: entrepreneurs launching bold new ventures, long-standing businesses adapting through innovation, and neighbors stepping up to support one another. That’s Chamber Life—being connected to a network that believes in the power of local.
Our Chamber is more than a business network—it’s a hub for leadership, advocacy, and community-building through meaningful partnerships, including with local educators. Events like Pillars of Strength and the Crystal Apple Awards are powerful examples of how we celebrate that connection. A strong local economy
depends on a steady pipeline of skilled, motivated workers—and that’s where the partnership between business and education truly shines. Educators lay the foundation by teaching essential skills and sparking curiosity, while businesses help turn potential into purpose through mentorship, career exposure, and real-world experience.
When these two forces align, students gain the readiness they need, and local industries help shape the workforce they rely on. It’s more than collaboration—it’s co-creating the future of our community. Recognizing both groups together just makes sense.
We know the challenges facing local businesses aren’t small. But when you’re part of something bigger—where wins are shared and struggles are supported—that’s where momentum builds. Chamber Life means no one grows alone.
As we look ahead, let’s keep showing up, celebrating one another, and strengthening the connections that make Kelso and Longview thrive.
From page 12
Learning from Other Student Leaders
Beyond their meetings with lawmakers, LCC students connected with student leaders from across the country, gaining valuable insight into how advocacy works at a national level. Workshops and networking sessions gave them the tools to continue their advocacy work long after they returned home. They left inspired, motivated, and ready to take action.
LCC Nursing Faculty Member, Kailie Drumm, shared what this trip meant to her, sharing that "This trip was an incredible opportunity to support our students and engage in legislative advocacy for community colleges in Washington State. It’s an experience I’ll always cherish and a true highlight of my career."
Exploring the Heart of Democracy
Of course, no trip to Washington, D.C. would be complete without exploring the rich history of the nation’s capital. Between meetings, the LCC delegation visited iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Lincoln Memorial. These moments gave students a deeper appreciation for American history and democracy, making their advocacy efforts feel even more meaningful.
A Life-Changing Experience
For many students, this trip was nothing short of transformative. It wasn’t just about policy—it was about realizing that their voices truly matter.
Crista Braun, a nursing student at LCC, reflected on how the trip changed her perspective:
"Attending the Senate session was profoundly inspiring. It made me realize that we are more than just a vote; we are active participants in shaping our future. Meeting with Senator Murray was an incredible experience—she genuinely cared about the concerns we brought forward. She actively listened and asked thoughtful questions about the unique needs of Cowlitz County, making me feel empowered to share my perspective. Knowing that my voice mattered in shaping policies that could impact my community and future generations was truly eye-opening."
As the LCC delegation returns home, they do so with a renewed passion for advocacy and a commitment to making a difference. Their experience in Washington, D.C. is proof that students have the power to influence policy, shape the future, and ensure that community colleges remain a vital part of higher education.
Kelso School District
Mary Beth Tack Superintendent
Celebrating the Completion of Our 2018 Bond Projects
Last month in Kelso we celebrated the completion of construction projects made possible by the passage of the 2018 bond. We are grateful to have been able to address six key priorities, thanks to the support of our community. Together, we’ve built new schools, modernized facilities, expanded classrooms, enhanced athletic spaces, improved traffic flow, and upgraded safety.
These projects began in June 2018 with putting in an artificial turf and concluded in August 2024 with the modernization of Rose Valley Elementary. We are proud to say we completed the projects on-time and on-budget.
Two School Replacements
Our two new school buildings have beautiful, state-of-the-art learning spaces. They also have great safety features and are environmentally sustainable.
• Wallace Elementary - At 58,000 square feet, the new Wallace features shared learning areas, specially-positioned classrooms to optimize natural light, and a unique exterior inspired by nearby homes. Historic bricks and signage from the old school were incorporated into the new building.
• Lexington Elementary - Lexington Elementary, our newest school, is the largest elementary in the county at 105,000 square feet. It has innovative learning spaces, outdoor classrooms, and a large garden. Lexington also features modern playgrounds cushioned to help break falls.
School Modernizations
Four schools have had significant modernization projects, including upgrades to plumbing, heating, ventilation, cooling, roofs, windows, and siding.
• Carrolls Elementary was the first school to receive improvements. Upgrades were made to plumbing, heating, ventilation, cooling, roofs, windows, and siding.
• Butler Acres Elementary has many improvements, including a new HVAC system, modernized kitchen and restrooms, library renovations, and safety updates like secure entries, a central security system, and seismically reinforced gym. The school also received six new classrooms to replace portables.
• Huntington Middle School received a new entry and secure
vestibule, a modernized library, updated classrooms with natural lighting, and a new auxiliary gym. Historic exposed concrete honors Huntington’s legacy, and students’ words expressing Husky values are on several walls.
• Rose Valley Elementary is not only the oldest school building in our district, it also has the distinction of being the longest continuously occupied school site in Cowlitz County. Rose Valley received additional classrooms, upgraded plumbing and electrical systems, a new covered play area, and restored iconic features like the original school bell and 1939 doors and stairs.
Added & Updated Classrooms
Classrooms were added at Butler Acres and Rose Valley. Multiple Career and Technical Education (CTE) classrooms at Kelso High received considerable upgrades, including:
• Welding & Fabrication: Eight welding stations were added to provide hands-on opportunities for student learning.
• Hilander Automotive: An expanded shop with 4 post vehicle lifts improves skills training in automotive technology.
• Engineering & Construction: Engineering and construction spaces offer more opportunities for skill development.
• Culinary Arts: Six culinary kitchen layouts were upgraded.
Athletic Facilities
Athletic upgrades were made at Kelso High and both middle schools.
• Schroeder Field has artificial turf, ensuring a quality play surface all year long. The stadium has a new elevator, handrails, and sound system, and also received HVAC and mechanical upgrades.
• Kelso High has a new gym floor and bleachers, the pool has been refinished, and the tennis court was resurfaced.
• Practice field improvements were made to Kelso High and both middle schools.
• Coweeman and Huntington now have all-weather tracks with better field irrigation.
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:
• 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
• Divine Surfaces
• 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
